Dr. Douglas Emlen “Communicating Science to a Non-Academic Audience”

Dr. Emlen will deliver a 20 minute presentation titled “Communicating Science to a Non-Academic Audience” followed by a 40 minute discussion session. This is a great opportunity for GGA graduate students and undergraduate students. 

Join us November 19 from 3:30 – 4:30 pm in Williams Hall 1404

REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/VrKd57fxmgmX8Ywc7

Abstract:

We live at a time when science is more relevant than ever, yet at the same time science has become dauntingly complex. How do we connect with audiences outside of our disciplines in ways that are impactful and constructive? Emlen has tackled this challenge in many ways, writing a “trade book”; a narrative nonfiction chapter book for middle school readers; and a college sophomore level textbook coauthored with a science writer (Carl Zimmer). He worked with film producers on documentaries for the BBC and Nova, and he has given dozens of interviews for radio, YouTube, and other outlets. Each project brought new challenges – different audiences requiring different approaches – and he readily admits he stumbled repeatedly along the way, making every mistake in the book at one time or another. However, he benefitted from dedicated and talented editors and countless critical reviewers, and he has amassed a wealth of tips and tricks. Many of the rules of trade book writing and journalism conflict starkly with what we are taught in academia, providing ample fodder for debate. An open discussion on this topic would bring together the experiences of others in the audience, as well as Emlen’s, to discuss topics like finding the narrative, how much information is too much, knowing your audience, the importance of sequence when assembling complex ideas, when and how much to anthropomorphize, active versus passive phrasing, and first versus third-person perspectives. He is also happy to discuss the publishing process – finding an agent and writing book proposals for the trade industry, versus working with an academic press like Oxford or Princeton – and using other media, including working with illustrators and artists, designing exhibits for museums, and collaborating with dancers and composers.