Zakiya
 
 

Science Communication

My Introduction to SciComm

Hindsight is 20/20 and when I look back, even before I knew what to call it, I was committed to science communication and outreach.

  • Storytelling

  • Podcasting, Workshops, and more

  • Biology Labs & Experiments

  • Course-Based Research & Curriculum Design

  • Social Video & Filmmaking

Are you ready to bring a fresh perspective to your science communication skills? Are you looking for opportunities to transform the way your students and faculty convey complex scientific ideas?


 
 

Growing as a Science Communicator

 

Continuous Learning in SCI COMM

My early experiences in science communication (and first sci-comm trainings) were based on exposing young kids to careers in STEM. I was working with middle schoolers in Durham County, NC, and most of the work I did was with groups of 4-6 students. I quickly learned the importance of trying different formats and styles to suit my changing audience as I pursued science communication opportunities to educate college students and the general public.

STORYTELLING TECHNIQUES

This is easier said than done, but it is useful to find ways to weave scientific concepts into compelling narratives. Stories help us organize, retain, and recall information. Use stories to engage your audience with the goal of providing both educational and entertaining learning experiences.

Collaboration & Networking

Collaborate with other science communicators, researchers, and creatives to broaden your perspective and reach. Horizontal networking with your classmates or colleagues can be incredibly valuable, especially when facing challenges with advisors or administrators who may not fully understand your scicomm goals. You can create and leverage a supportive community for exchanging ideas, sharing resources, and amplifying your impact.

 
 
Podcast7.png
 

What’s in My Pack

When I give talks or do workshops, students often ask me about my gear. What kind of mic do you use? What is the best software for editing? What type of camera do you have? I think you can get by with recording audio on your phone, but I understand and appreciate when audio and video are high quality. I’m sharing a couple of items from my different gear packs, and you can download the Podcasting Guide or book me for a workshop if you want more details or 1 on 1 instruction.

This list of equipment may contain affiliate links. This never changes the price for you, but it does sprinkle a little support my way!



 
 

Other TEch

A hard drive to store all of the amazing footage you record

 
Home7.png
 

 Science Communication Resources

At a recent live taping of Dope Labs Podcast, someone asked me about resources I used when starting out as a science communicator. And honestly, I was knee deep in science communication (via informal education & outreach programs) before I even knew the hashtag #scicomm. As I continued in my career as a professor, an administrator, and then into full-time science communication, I came across so many amazing creators, communities, and resources. Some of these are science focused, and some of them are not, but I think there’s something to learn from them. I’m sharing a few of them below, and if you find them to be useful, please let me know!

Creators & Communicators

Books & Articles

 
 
  • Strategic Science Communication by Besley & Dudo - Dr. Isabell May recommended this book right before John Besley (one of the authors) walked up to her table at AAASMtg2024. Then a couple weeks later, Dr. Reyhaneh Maktoufi was sharing some insights from it too. If that’s not enough to convince you, I don’t know what else to say!

 
Podcast9.jpg