The spread of disinformation and misinformation is on the rise. Combating this trend and understanding why some people deny, doubt or resist scientific findings and explanations is crucial to addressing the complex and existential issues impacting our societies.
The University of Waterloo’s new Trust in Science and Technology Research Network brings together researchers and practitioners from across disciplines to improve communication with the public and build trust in science and technology.
Under the leadership of the inaugural co-directors, Dr. Donna Strickland, recipient of the 2018 Nobel Prize in Physics, and Dr. Ashley Rose Mehlenbacher, Canada Research Chair in Science, Health and Technology Communication, it is the first multidisciplinary research network of its kind in Canada to tackle this important issue.
The Network plans to begin engagement with the public through an expert speaker series and a Citizen Science Project where Waterloo region community members can offer input and actively participate in the scientific research communication process.
“It is important that we engage authentically with members of the community through events and activities to get to the core of what information the public needs and values,” says Mehlenbacher, professor in the Department of English Language and Literature. “A common theme I have encountered in my work in science communications is the importance of trust when we talk about big issues that impact us all. We need to move beyond a broadcast model of translating knowledge and focus on building trust with people to help inform their decisions around complex scientific topics.”
Additional founding members from the Faculty of Arts include Dr. Jonathan Fugelsang, professor of Psychology and Dr. Carla Fehr, professor of Philosophy and the Wolfe Chair in Scientific and Technological Literacy.
Read Dr. Mehlenbacher's recent op-ed on Building Trust for Experts