As You Review, Keep In Mind The Following Guidelines

As You Review Keep In Mind The Following Guidelines Who Is Your Ta

As you review, keep in mind the following guidelines: · Who is your target audience? What are the characteristics of your audience? (sex, race, educational level, political leanings, etc.) · What are your key points? How can you support your points? · What is your means of communication? (speech, research poster, written materials) · What factors besides content do you need to consider in your presentation? (e.g. body language, appearance of materials) · What is the goal or purpose of your communication? · How will you know if you are successful? Knowing what works and what doesn’t can help you to improve in the future. Respond to the following: 1. After reviewing the document “Public Attitudes to Science 2014 Topline Results” ( ), what conclusions do you make about public attitudes to science and social science? Support with evidence from the document. 2. Pick one of the following topics and demonstrate your ability to communicate in a variety of styles depending on your audience. For this discussion you do not need to provide an in-depth argument – I’m more interested in how you communicate than what you communicate – but you do need to support with facts and provide citations as appropriate. § In support of climate change and the need to further regulate vehicle emissions § In support of animal research and the need to continue federal funding in order to find a cure for cancer § In support of vaccinations and the need to expand free vaccination programs around the world § Against the digital divide and in support of free Internet access for everyone § In support of genetically modified organisms (GMO’s) to reduce world hunger § 3. Policy makers are trying to decide where to allocate money for the upcoming year. Create a written mini-presentation on your topic for policy makers (2-3 paragraphs) where you try to convince them to enact policies that support your position. 4. Your cranky great-uncle Charlie is on the fence regarding the topic you’ve chosen. Create a written mini-presentation (2-3 paragraphs) where you try to convince him to come over to your side. Remember, you are a social scientist! Don’t appeal to Uncle Charlie’s emotions; instead, present evidence! 5. For each of your presentations, what do you think would be the best way to deliver your message (e.g. orally, in writing, by phone, etc.) and why? 6. Describe how your two presentations differ from one another and how they were the same. What factors did you have to consider in writing each one? Links and Resources CDC: “Scientific and Technical Information – Simply Put” (1999) Wimberly, R.C., & Morris, L.V. (2007). Communicating research to policymakers. American Sociologist, 38, . Cuddy, A. (2012, June). Your body language shapes who you are

Paper For Above instruction

The public's attitudes toward science and social science are complex and influenced by various factors including trust, perceived relevance, and understanding of scientific processes. According to the “Public Attitudes to Science 2014 Topline Results” report, there is a generally positive perception of science among the public, with many recognizing its benefits for health, environment, and technology. However, skepticism remains concerning issues like climate change and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), often fueled by misinformation, political beliefs, and mistrust in institutions (Ipsos MORI, 2014). These findings suggest that while the public values scientific advancements, there are significant challenges in effectively communicating scientific information and addressing misconceptions.

In discussing support for climate change regulation, it is important to emphasize the scientific consensus on human influence on climate change, supported by extensive research and data from climate scientists worldwide. For policy makers, advocating for stricter emission standards can help mitigate adverse environmental impacts, improve public health by reducing air pollutants, and promote economic growth through green technologies. Evidence from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which underscores the urgency of reducing emissions, provides a compelling rationale for policy changes that favor environmental regulations (IPCC, 2021).

Conversely, convincing Uncle Charlie about the importance of funding animal research for cancer cures requires presenting credible scientific evidence demonstrating its success and ethical considerations. For example, animal studies have contributed significantly to breakthroughs like targeted cancer therapies and vaccines. While ethical concerns are valid, regulations ensure humane treatment, and the potential benefits in saving human lives justify continued federal funding for animal research (American Cancer Society, 2020). Honest discussions grounded in empirical evidence, rather than emotional appeals, are essential for changing his perspective.

When considering the best mode of communication, policy-oriented messages are most effective when delivered through formal written proposals or presentations, allowing precise articulation of data and policy implications. In contrast, face-to-face discussions or videos may be more suitable for convincing skeptics like Uncle Charlie, as they allow for real-time clarification and adaptation of messages based on immediate feedback.

Both types of presentations share a common goal: to inform and persuade by backing claims with credible evidence. However, they differ in tone, complexity, and delivery method—policy briefs are formal, data-rich, and aimed at decision-makers, whereas personal appeals to individuals like Uncle Charlie rely on clear, straightforward evidence and tailored communication strategies. Writing each requires careful consideration of audience background, levels of scientific literacy, and ethical sensitivities to ensure clarity and effectiveness.

References

• Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). (2021). Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/
• American Cancer Society. (2020). Cancer Research and Animal Models. https://www.cancer.org/research/animal-models.html
• Ipsos MORI. (2014). Public Attitudes to Science: 2014 Topline Results. https://www.ipsos.com/en-us/news and polls/public-attitudes-science-2014
• Wimberly, R. C., & Morris, L. V. (2007). Communicating research to policymakers. American Sociologist.
• Cuddy, A. (2012). Your body language shapes who you are. Harvard Business Review.