Up-to-date scientific research findings are not just found in journals. For a variety of reasons, more and more academic researchers are finding time during their busy days to read and even write science blogs. This trend is on the rise and creates new opportunities for scientists to share their research and engage with the public.
In a 2015 survey of scientists who use social media, 92 percent indicated that they read science blogs. And according to a 2014 survey of more than 600 science bloggers, 47 percent identified themselves as working in academic research, indicating that blogging has become more of an accepted practice at universities.
The number of science blogs seems to also grow daily. The site ScienceSeeker.org has links to more than 2,300 blogs and other science news sources. The diversity of science blogs includes the more commonly covered biology and climate science and also topics such as paleontology, political science and astronomy.
Reasons for blogging vary, but include the ability to explain science; draw attention to science that is not normally covered in mainstream media, and the opportunity to share one’s work with colleagues. While research in this area is limited, there is some indication that scientists who do promote their work through social media do receive more citations based on a study of nanotechnology researchers.
For those who wish to join the “blogosphere” there are some points for how to make the most of that effort. First, identify the role of your blog. Do you want to promote scientific information in general; share insights with colleagues; highlight research from your lab; or try to explain current scientific discoveries covered in the news. The best blogs do have a “voice” or specific role for which those who read it come to expect. Also make sure to identify who you are and your scientific expertise.
How content is provided in the blog is also important. Photos and videos are easily shared by others through social media and help provide interest. People always like to hear stories, so sharing the story behind a discovery or anecdote about personal experience can make it more interesting. Practical information or “how to” advice is also popular.
There are numerous resources on the web to also help you determine what platform to use (WordPress, Blogger or Tumblir for example) and how to promote your blog.
As most people now get their science information from the web, blogging is a great addition to traditional science news coverage. It can add interest, clarify, highlight and reach new audiences with science information.
– Beth Forbes, director of science communication, College of Agriculture ([email protected])
(via BLOGGING: IT’S ACADEMIC – Dimensions of Discovery)
