Prepared and Distributed by The National Association of Science Writers
Communicating Science News is OUT OF PRINT. Printed copies are no longer available.
ABOUT THE NASW
WHY COMMUNICATE SCIENCE?
The public learns about science news by many different routes, including newspapers, magazines, books, radio, television, the Internet, electronic news services and films. Each of these media has different needs, different strengths and different weaknesses. And each reporter and writer for the media is an individual, a fact that some scientists and physicians tend to forget. Reporters and writers differ in their knowledge of science or of a particular discipline, in journalistic technique, in interests, in details they seek, etc. To avoid conflicts with journalists, scientists, physicians and PIOs need to understand these differences.
PIOs at scientific and technical institutions usually have day-to-day dealings with science and medical writers and know them well. However, for those who may not be familiar with their work, this section deals with some dos and don'ts in conducting a public information program.
Although relationships among science writers, scientists and PIOs are usually cordial and productive, there are several areas that sometimes generate misunderstanding and tension: