Assessing what to address in science communication

摘要: As members of a democratic society, individuals face complex decisions about whether to support climate change mitigation, vaccinations, genetically modified food, nanotechnology, geoengineering, and so on. To inform people’s public debate, scientific experts at government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, other organizations aim provide understandable scientifically accurate communication materials. Such communications improve understanding the decision-relevant issues, if needed, promote behavior change. Unfortunately, existing sometimes fail when lack information what people need know make more informed or wording use describe relevant concepts. We an introduction for how mental models research with intended audience their efforts. Specifically, we conduct interviews characterize beliefs topic under consideration, identify gaps misconceptions in knowledge, reveal preferred wording. also methods designing follow-up surveys larger samples examine prevalence as well relationships behaviors. Finally, discuss findings from these can be used design that effectively address they understand. present applications different domains, showing this approach leads recipients’ ability decisions.