Building Science Communication Strategies. New or Existing Initiatives

Abstract

After reviewing the available methodological paradigms of participatory methodologies, their data collection tools, and how these have been effectively used in science communication projects, we present two case studies developed by some of the authors of this book. In this endeavor, we aim to provide our readers with a full spectrum of how science communication strategies can be developed according to the needs and interests of audiences and scientists. In Case Study 6 A Todo Pulmón (ATP), With Your Whole Lungs, we present a participatory research study we designed to develop informational and behavioral tools to support asthma self-management of children and teenagers and their caregivers in Ecuador, based on the reported barriers and limitations that young patients and their families face around this chronic illness. Case Study 7 presents the results of a multiple-case study developed in two countries around two already-existing health behavior change programs, which promoted children’s healthy nutrition and physical activity. This study explored how to develop engaging science communication in culturally diverse scenarios through a participatory evaluation approach that aimed to improve audience engagement. Finally, we suggest three broad guidelines to plan science communication strategies and develop content and tools that use research findings to create collaboratively useful resources for audiences, with the goal of promoting audience engagement.