Article type
Abstract
Background
There is a noticeable increase in public interaction with scientific information. However, a significant gap exists in the understanding of what science truly entails diverse. This gap also exists in conveyors of information who are entrusted with the responsibility of acting upon data and research findings.
Communicating genomics or any other science is complex. Guidance around communicating science to nonscience audiences has frequently been simplistic, and it is assumed that anyone can do it. However, it requires more than simply translating the jargon of science into common language. This study aimed at improving the understanding of genomics information as a case of complex science and building the capacity of select purveyors of this information.
Objectives
1. To explore and improve the public’s understanding of genomics in the context of COVID-19.
2. To build the capacity of a select group of researchers, journalists, knowledge brokers, and policymakers around the communication of genomics research and findings to the public.
Methods
We took a case study research design employing action research methods between September 2022 and January 2024.
Phase one involved conducting citizen panels to develop a background of the public’s understanding on genomics.
Phase two built on the phase one results to develop and implement a training and mentorship program for complex science communication on a selected group of purveyors.
We ensured early and continuous policy and stakeholder engagement.
Results
•Citizen panels affirmed the wide use of genomics (complex scientific) terms and lack of complete understanding thereof.
•Local languages were shown to lack vocabulary for most genomics and scientific terms.
•Different cultural contexts in Malawi use different scientific terms to mean different things, hence a need for standardization.
•Eighteen purveyors were trained and mentored in knowledge translation and communication, improving their information sharing.
•Government and partners are keen on improving complex science communication.
Conclusion and Recommendations
•Enhanced communication of complex scientific information and data is key for informed decisions.
•Combined training–mentorship offered effective capacity building.
•Communication of complex science terms to be included in curricula.
•There is a need for a medical/scientific dictionary in Malawi.
There is a noticeable increase in public interaction with scientific information. However, a significant gap exists in the understanding of what science truly entails diverse. This gap also exists in conveyors of information who are entrusted with the responsibility of acting upon data and research findings.
Communicating genomics or any other science is complex. Guidance around communicating science to nonscience audiences has frequently been simplistic, and it is assumed that anyone can do it. However, it requires more than simply translating the jargon of science into common language. This study aimed at improving the understanding of genomics information as a case of complex science and building the capacity of select purveyors of this information.
Objectives
1. To explore and improve the public’s understanding of genomics in the context of COVID-19.
2. To build the capacity of a select group of researchers, journalists, knowledge brokers, and policymakers around the communication of genomics research and findings to the public.
Methods
We took a case study research design employing action research methods between September 2022 and January 2024.
Phase one involved conducting citizen panels to develop a background of the public’s understanding on genomics.
Phase two built on the phase one results to develop and implement a training and mentorship program for complex science communication on a selected group of purveyors.
We ensured early and continuous policy and stakeholder engagement.
Results
•Citizen panels affirmed the wide use of genomics (complex scientific) terms and lack of complete understanding thereof.
•Local languages were shown to lack vocabulary for most genomics and scientific terms.
•Different cultural contexts in Malawi use different scientific terms to mean different things, hence a need for standardization.
•Eighteen purveyors were trained and mentored in knowledge translation and communication, improving their information sharing.
•Government and partners are keen on improving complex science communication.
Conclusion and Recommendations
•Enhanced communication of complex scientific information and data is key for informed decisions.
•Combined training–mentorship offered effective capacity building.
•Communication of complex science terms to be included in curricula.
•There is a need for a medical/scientific dictionary in Malawi.