May 16th, 2014 | RESEARCH
This article reviews current research on informal science learning through news media. Based on a descriptive model of media-based science communication we distinguish between (a) the professional routines by which journalists select and depict scientific information in traditional media and (b) the psychological processes that account for how media recipients select, process and integrate such information. We argue that science literacy and media literacy in laypersons can be promoted by combining insights from the research on mass media production, laypersons’ reception processes and the interplay of both. Moreover, we point out potential obstacles and biases in the process of science communication and suggest strategies to prevent such problems using media-based elements of science communication. Focusing on “traditional” news media in the main parts of the article, we conclude with reflections on how online sources might change the interplay between information demand and supply.
Document
(no document provided)
Team Members
Michaela Myer, Author, University of Koblenz-LandauTobias Rochmund, Author, University of Koblenz-Landau
Andrea Retzbach, Author, University of Koblenz-Landau
Lukas Otto, Author, University of Koblenz-Landau
John Besley, Author, Michigan State University
Citation
Identifier Type: DOI
Identifier: 10.1080/00461520.2014.916215
Publication: Educational Psychologist
Volume: 49
Number: 2
Page(s): 104-116
Related URLs
Tags
Audience: General Public | Museum | ISE Professionals | Scientists
Discipline: General STEM
Resource Type: Peer-reviewed article | Research Products
Environment Type: Comics | Books | Newspapers | Media and Technology | Websites | Mobile Apps | Online Media