Communicating Nutrition Science

Question 1

Why communicate nutrition science? (The 4 different arguments)

Answer 1

Utilitarian argument
Cultural argument
Economic argument
Demographic argument

Question 2

What is the importance of using Nutrition science communication?

Answer 2

• Nutrition education
• Restricting misinformation about nutrition
• Improve nutritional status
• To ensure better use of food and nutrition resources

Question 3

Definition of science communication?

Answer 3

‘The practice of sharing and explaining scientific knowledge to diverse audiences, such as the public, policymakers, media or practitioners.’

Question 4

What is the vowel analogy relating to science communication?

Answer 4

A- Awareness, new aspects of science
E- Enjoyment
I- Interest
O- Opinions
U- Understanding of science

Question 5

Examples of forms of communication of science?

Answer 5

Podcasts
Workshops
Science cafes/pubs
Museums
Science fairs

Question 6

What is the gradient model/Deficit model?

Answer 6

-Scientists are experts and are knowledgeable
- Public lack knowledge
-Delivery of simplified scientific information to the public
-Transfer of knowledge is one way: scientists to the public
- Good transmission leads to a reduced deficit in knowledge
- Leads to better decisions and often better support for science

Question 7

What are the strengths and weaknesses of the gradient model/Deficit model?

Answer 7

Strengths:
- Quickly delivers information to lots of people causing mass awareness.
- Takes into account scientists’ expert knowledge

Weaknesses:
- Awareness alone may not lead to action.
- Does not take into account how people’s perceptions depend on their social cultural backgrounds and prior knowledge.

Question 8

What is the Dialogue/Public engagement model?

Answer 8

• Two-way flow of information between scientists, the public and policymakers
• Communication strengthens relations between science and the public
• Focuses on policy issues involving scientific and technical knowledge
• Tied to democratic ideal of wide public participation in policy process
• Engages citizens in active policy making
• Real public authority over policy and resources

Question 9

What are the strengths and weaknesses of the dialogue/public engagement model?

Answer 9

Strengths:
- Public and policymakers participate equally,
- Science communication may take the form of participatory engagements to ensure audiences are central in shaping the future of research efforts

Weaknesses:
- Diminishes the influence of the scientists
- citizens can be emotional rather than being rational which undermines objective communication

Question 10

What are some examples of dilemmas in science communication?

Answer 10

Simplicity vs Complexity
Logical vs Critical
Helicopter-view vs Detail
Process vs Facts

Question 11

What are the 3 parts of the triangle relating to Rhetoric of science?

Answer 11

Ethics
Emotion
Logic/reason