In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on open access and preservation of research papers and supplemental data. This has been a positive step towards making scientific knowledge more accessible and transparent. However, in this push for open access, there is one aspect that often gets overlooked – the preservation of communication outputs aimed at engaging non-academic audiences.
Andy Tattersall, Liz Such, Joe Langley, and Fiona Marshall, in their article on Social Science Space, argue that equal attention should be paid to curating communication outputs in order to ensure the long-term impact of research. This is a crucial aspect that needs to be addressed, as it has the potential to bridge the gap between academia and the general public.
In today’s digital age, where information is easily accessible and constantly evolving, it is vital to consider the long-term impact of research communication. The traditional methods of disseminating research, such as publishing in academic journals, may not be enough to reach a wider audience and have a lasting impact. This is where the role of curating communication outputs comes into play.
Communication outputs refer to any form of communication that conveys research findings to non-academic audiences. This can include blogs, podcasts, videos, infographics, and social media posts. These outputs are designed to make research more accessible, engaging, and understandable for the general public. They serve as a bridge between the complex language of academia and the everyday language of the general public.
The importance of curating communication outputs for the long-term impact of research cannot be overstated. These outputs have the potential to reach a wider audience and have a lasting impact on society. They can help to increase public engagement with research, promote evidence-based decision making, and even inspire future generations to pursue careers in science.
Moreover, curating communication outputs can also enhance the visibility and credibility of research. By making research findings more accessible and understandable, it can increase the chances of the research being cited and referenced by other researchers. This can lead to further collaborations and advancements in the field.
In addition, curating communication outputs can also play a crucial role in addressing the issue of misinformation. In today’s world, where false information spreads like wildfire, it is important for researchers to communicate their findings accurately and directly to the public. By curating communication outputs, researchers can ensure that their research is not misinterpreted or misrepresented, thus promoting the integrity of their work.
However, despite the potential benefits of curating communication outputs, it is still an aspect that is often overlooked or undervalued in the research process. This may be due to the lack of incentives or recognition for researchers who engage in such activities. In academia, the focus is often on publishing in prestigious journals and securing funding, rather than on communicating research to the general public. This needs to change.
There should be a shift in the academic culture towards valuing and rewarding researchers who engage in curating communication outputs. This can be achieved by including such activities in the evaluation criteria for tenure, promotion, and funding. Additionally, institutions can also provide training and resources for researchers to effectively communicate their findings to non-academic audiences.
Furthermore, there needs to be a concerted effort from funding agencies and publishers to support the preservation of communication outputs. Just like research papers and data, these outputs should also be archived and made openly accessible for future reference. This will not only ensure the long-term impact of research but also promote transparency and accountability in the research process.
In conclusion, the preservation of communication outputs aimed at engaging non-academic audiences is a crucial aspect that needs to be given equal attention in the research process. It has the potential to enhance the long-term impact of research, promote public engagement, and address the issue of misinformation. It is time for the academic community to recognize and value the importance of curating communication outputs and take steps towards preserving them for the benefit of society.
