Preprints
https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-1960
https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-1960
05 Aug 2024
 | 05 Aug 2024

Geoscience Communication: A Content Analysis of Practice in British Columbia, Canada Using Science Communication Models

Courtney Carol Onstad and Eileen van der Flier-Keller

Abstract. Geoscience communication, an emerging discipline within the geosciences, faces a scarcity of theoretical grounding despite abundant practical perspectives. This paper addresses this gap by investigating the application of science communication models (deficit, dialogue, participatory) in geoscience communication, specifically in British Columbia, Canada. The overarching aim is to determine if the ‘deficit to dialogue’ shift often discussed in science communication literature is reflected in geoscience communication practice. Using a content analysis approach, data was collected from publicly accessible websites to qualify and quantify how (activities) and why (objectives) geoscience communication practitioners communicate. The activities and objectives were coded based on terms associated with each model that closely aligned with those described by Metcalfe (2019a,b). Findings reveal a persistence of the deficit model in practice (76 % for objectives, 61 % for activities) with limited adoption of dialogue and participatory approaches. This suggests a discrepancy between theoretical advancements in science communication and their application in geoscience contexts. The study highlights disparities in the use of communication models across target audiences, regions, and venues. While communication with K-12 audiences utilizes dialogue-based approaches, participatory activities are underrepresented, particularly in regions with high population densities (e.g. Lowermainland/Sea-to-Sky: 0 % participatory) and areas where geoscience intersects with public interests (e.g. Northern B.C.: 3 % participatory). By shedding light on the current landscape of geoscience communication in British Columbia, this research informs future endeavours in theory development and practice improvement within the broader field of science communication. However, it also acknowledges the need for localized studies to capture the diverse contexts of science communication practices worldwide.

Publisher's note: Copernicus Publications remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims made in the text, published maps, institutional affiliations, or any other geographical representation in this preprint. The responsibility to include appropriate place names lies with the authors.
Courtney Carol Onstad and Eileen van der Flier-Keller

Status: final response (author comments only)

Comment types: AC – author | RC – referee | CC – community | EC – editor | CEC – chief editor | : Report abuse
  • RC1: 'Comment on egusphere-2024-1960', Joana Rodrigues, 30 Sep 2024
    • AC2: 'Reply on RC1', Courtney Onstad, 25 Nov 2024
  • RC2: 'Comment on egusphere-2024-1960', Victoria Miara, 09 Nov 2024
    • AC1: 'Reply on RC2', Courtney Onstad, 25 Nov 2024
Courtney Carol Onstad and Eileen van der Flier-Keller
Courtney Carol Onstad and Eileen van der Flier-Keller

Viewed

Total article views: 589 (including HTML, PDF, and XML)
HTML PDF XML Total Supplement BibTeX EndNote
293 103 193 589 34 9 8
  • HTML: 293
  • PDF: 103
  • XML: 193
  • Total: 589
  • Supplement: 34
  • BibTeX: 9
  • EndNote: 8
Views and downloads (calculated since 05 Aug 2024)
Cumulative views and downloads (calculated since 05 Aug 2024)

Viewed (geographical distribution)

Total article views: 577 (including HTML, PDF, and XML) Thereof 577 with geography defined and 0 with unknown origin.
Country # Views %
  • 1
1
 
 
 
 
Latest update: 08 Dec 2024
Download
Short summary
Our study investigates geoscience communication in British Columbia, Canada, examining the application of theory in practice. Using content analysis, we assessed how and why geoscience communicators engage the public. We found the prevalent use of the "deficit" model, which emphasizes knowledge transfer, rather than fostering dialogue or participatory approaches. This research illuminates current practices and guides future endeavours in theory development and science communication practice.