Faciliator: Cissi Askwall
Natalia A. Lyapugina, European University at St. Petersburg, Russia
Identity Matters: Exploring Identities in Science Communication from an STS perspective
Navigating science communication requires addressing the diverse social identities within society. How can science effectively reach across these identities? This presentation delves into this question by examining identities through the lens of Science & Technology Studies (STS). Drawing on M. Callon’s research on patient associations and a case study of a comic book for oncology patients, I’ll demonstrate how science communication can not only address but also redefine identities. By exploring the implications of this perspective, we can uncover new research and practice opportunities. Participants are invited to contemplate how identities intersect with science communication and how these interactions shape our understanding and actionable strategies. This STS-informed approach offers a dynamic view of identities, fostering new discussions and potential avenues for practice in science communication.
Mariam Dalakishvili, Ilia State University, Georgia
“Fear Rhetoric” in the COVID-19 Discourse and Ethical Dilemmas
This talk delves into the COVID-19 pandemic discourse, focusing on “fear rhetoric” and its ethical implications, particularly in the context of Orthodox Easter 2020 in Georgia. Through Van Dijk’s critical discourse analysis, it scrutinizes an interview with Dr. Paata Imnadze, revealing discursive strategies like dramatization and blame-shifting to amplify fear. The clash between the church and state underscores ethical dilemmas, with the former risking lives for tradition and the latter resorting to fear tactics to avert confrontation. The talk highlights the ethical concerns of spreading fear amid an already stressed populace and explores the intricate interplay of fear, power, and ethics during a pandemic. It underscores the influence of contextual background and media on public perception and behavior, and it examines the moral complexities arising from fear-based communication methods. Overall, it sheds light on the nuanced dynamics of fear, ethics, and power within the COVID-19 crisis.
Liz Danner, The Open University, United Kingdom
Engagement Career Development: Moving from Introduction to Identity
My research investigates the influence of the research impact agenda on career development in UK higher education, focusing on public engagement as a pathway to impact. While institutions prioritize and reward engagement at project and institutional levels, individual career development for creating and recognizing impacts remains inconsistent. Analyzing national and institutional strategies revealed a growing emphasis on engagement and impact, but career development still focuses on basic skills. I propose that advanced training and opportunities for application and reflection are crucial for staff to develop comprehensive engagement identities. Presenting new analysis of institutional and national strategies, I will explore trends in engagement and impact career development. Attendees will learn how national initiatives shape institutional processes and discuss strategies for enhancing training and support for engaged research careers. I will also discuss this study in the context of my broader doctoral research on the research impact agenda’s effects.