Communicating your research to a wide audience is a good part of your success as a graduate student. Communicating with the public requires a special ability to make complex concepts understandable to those who may not be experts in your specific field. Here are 5 ways you can improve your communication skills when talking to a non-technical audience!
1. Highlight the impact of your work
Oftentimes, we are very focused on the details of the work that we are performing (designing experiments, collecting and analyzing the data, and drawing conclusions) and we lose sight of the big picture. When communicating to the public it is important that we clearly describe the impact of the work. What are the specific benefits of the research? How will society be positively impacted by the research if it is successful?
2. Avoid jargon and complicated words
Audience members who are not specialists in your field will likely not recognize jargon specific to your field. Examples of jargon use include specific names of computer programs (use ‘computer program’ instead), specific laboratories and institutions, acronyms, etc. Try to avoid the use of these specialized words and instead use a brief explanation that does not require the specific word. Remember, there is almost always a less-technical way to say things!
3. Use analogies
When possible, put concepts in terms of well-known phenomena. For example, when describing nuclear reactions, use classical concepts such as the scattering of billiard balls to describe the possible outcomes. The scientific literature includes many approximate but effective pedagogical models. These models, while less accurate than those used in professional research, can be better at conveying ideas and can even produce qualitative predictions. Noteworthy examples in this category include the liquid drop model of the nucleus, and the solar system model of atomic electrons.
4. Avoid equations, use visuals
Using complicated equations in your presentations to a non-technical audience is a sure way to intimidate and alienate many audience members. Instead, use representative figures or videos to explain the same concepts. Not only will your audience benefit but you will too if you can clearly explain the concept in the equation using figures and images.
5. Solicit feedback and practice
Ask a friend to review your writing or presentation and give you feedback. Be ready to accept and incorporate the feedback in a new, revised version. Practice speaking to a broader non-technical audience by explaining your research to friends and family (and anyone you find yourself trapped in an elevator with).
Conclusion
Learning how to communicate with a broad audience of non-specialists in your field is possible. Doing so will help you more clearly define the impact of your research. As you do this work you are likely to gain new insights on your research question while inspiring non-technical audience members with your work. In summary, knowing how to communicate clearly and concisely will be an important asset as you grow your career.
What have you found helpful when communicating with a wider audience? Tell us in a comment!