Introducing the JMBE Themed Issue on Science Communication

摘要

How would you define science? Many dictionaries define science as a systematic process of gaining knowledge through observation and experimentation. Reference to communicating this knowledge is not mentioned, yet science does not exist without telling another human what was discovered. Additionally, the skills needed to effectively converse with the public about scientific discovery are often not learned, taught or practiced. Fortunately, thanks to professional organizations such as the American Society for Microbiology and a growing number of universities that teach communication skills within their science curricula, scientists are getting better at presenting to all types of audiences.