NOPR Community:

The ‘Great Leap Forward’ of Public Scientific Literacy in China

2019-05-07T09:16:59Z

Title: The ‘Great Leap Forward’ of Public Scientific Literacy in China Authors: Zhu, Xiaomin Abstract: From 1992 to 2015 China investigated Chinese public scientific literacy and attitudes to S&T nine times. Originally, the framework of investigation of indicators was almost similar to investigations in Science Indicators initiated by Jon Miller in the 1970s. However, from 2005 to 2015 with more and more Chinese characteristics of related investigations, we find that the scientific literacy level of the Chinese public increased almost two times every five years. And the aim of the 13th five-year National Planning of Chinese public scientific literacy level has been set at 10% in 2020, which means the data will be double again in another five years in the future. According to the eighth investigation in 2010, 3.27% Chinese people have scientific literacy, which shows 14.67% people master scientific knowledge, 9.75% master scientific methods, and 64.94% worship the scientific spirit. How do we understand the last number which is so conflicted with the common sense of science sociology? Which side is lying: public, science, or investigation? This paper will talk about the problems in these investigations which are really unreasonable and even could be a big scandal if we compare with other countries’ similar investigations and make an objective analysis of those data and results. Page(s): 07-20

Impact of Communication on Poverty Reduction

2019-05-07T09:12:35Z

Title: Impact of Communication on Poverty Reduction Authors: Haider, Dr Mohammad Hakim Abstract: It seems difficult to conceptualize under what conditions and to what extent the element of information and communication would be able to empower the poor and marginalized section in various societies. This paper tries to look at this question, concentrating on the role and impact of communication on poverty mitigation. The paper focuses on key factors under which communication and information through radio, telephony, newspapers, journals and the Internet and can be instrumental and substantive for the reduction of poverty. Access to information by the poor and giving chance for them to have a voice in the public media can enhance their capabilities to strategic life choices and obtain the lifestyle they value.
An attempt has been made to conclude that there does not exist a direct and casual relationship between Information and Communication Technologies and empowerment of the poor, but that in fact this relationship is being shaped by a dynamic, multi-dimensional interrelationship between technology and poverty reduction as a social context. However, government authorities should support and firmly focus on opening up private and public provisions of broadcasting and expanding access to communication tools, so that they can effectively play this intermediary role. Page(s): 21-33

Gatekeeping Eco-Media S&T Information for Newspapers

2019-05-07T09:00:54Z

Title: Gatekeeping Eco-Media S&T Information for Newspapers Authors: Nagarathinam, S. Abstract: Gatekeeping is a process where selection and rejection of a particular information is executed in media houses. Protection of water-bodies and eco-sites through communication is essential. Unearthing the scientific facts behind each eco-site and communicating this information to people passing through the gates of local newspapers is the objective of this study. This study concentrates on eco-sites that are damaged by human activities, pollution, etc. Key science communication messages are generated at eco-sites for the media to inculcate scientific temper on ecological issues among the public. It also involves engaging the local community to protect and conserve the eco-sites, and disseminating the scientific information on pressing issues pertaining to the eco-sites to newspapers.
The results are an analysis of the outcome of Science Communication activities in newspapers and raising awareness on eco-water issues. Science Communication is a combination of several components including dissemination of S&T information, activities, community engagements, etc. These components act as an influence in Gatekeeping for communicating science to the common people. Page(s): 34-44

Telling Stories in Science — For Better Communication

2019-05-07T08:58:13Z

Title: Telling Stories in Science — For Better Communication Authors: Deobhanj, Sanghamitra Abstract: In the present research paper, the researcher has attempted to find out whether the Post Graduate science teachers of higher secondary schools are aware of using the storytelling method for communicating both curricular topics and new scientific research findings to the students. A sample of 50 Kendriya Vidyalaya PG science teachers of different states had been selected through purposive sampling. The significant finding of the study is that storytelling for science communication at higher secondary level is not popular amongst the PG teachers. Science storytelling sessions are very limited due to various reasons. Storytelling either through audio or visuals or both has the potential to be useful in both urban and rural areas to make science popular among the students and public alike. The gap between the scientists and common people can be bridged with more efficient communication like storytelling. Page(s): 45-58