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HOW CAN ORGANIZATIONS SUPPORT PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT BY RESEARCH SCIENTISTS IN IRELAND? UNDERSTANDING THE PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT BEHAVIOURS AND PERCEPTIONS OF AGRI-FOOD RESEARCHERS
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2022-11-27
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Abstract
Science communication scholars and Research Performing Organizations advocate public
engagement (PE) by scientists. EU and Irish research funders see PE as essential to deliver
the full benefits of the outputs of funded research for society. PE should be a dialogue
between science and society, building trust in science. Scientists are required to participate
in public engagement actions.
To support and encourage this, it is necessary to characterize the PE behaviors, motivations,
and perceptions of scientists. Prior studies identified motivations for, and barriers to, public
engagement, and found the level and type of activity is varied. There is evidence of
influences from gender, career-status, age, and discipline, but it is not conclusive.
There has been little study of scientists’ perceptions of PE in Ireland. To address the
knowledge gap, this study surveyed Agri-food researchers in Ireland. The survey gathered
data about their participation in PE, their motivations, perceived barriers, their future PE
intentions, and identified training and supports needed. The data was analyzed to establish
any influences of gender, career-status, age, or discipline. The aim was to establish how
organizations can support, encourage, and build public engagement.
These scientists have a high level of participation in Public Engagement, with high levels of
largely altruistic motivations. However, they are time-poor, and unhappy with the current
situation regarding institutional support. They would like PE to be recognized in career
progression processes. They need relevant training. Gender, career-status, age, and
discipline all influence public engagement behaviors. There is a pronounced gender effect
relating to engagement with children. Senior scientists interact more with the media.
Agricultural scientists are more motivated to involve the public in their research. Research
organizations must recognize and value public engagement in their career assessment
processes, provide training and supply supports to encourage more participation and deeper
engagement