Center for Science Communication Research in the News

For the Media

The Center for Science Communication Research (SCR) is the academic home of many of the field’s foremost and emerging science communication researchers. We provide evidence-based expert commentary and information for local, national, and international media outlets.

Looking for an expert source about the science of science communication? Reach out to Andra Brichacek, SOJC Communication Director, with your media inquiry.

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SCR in the News

Read the latest news covering the research and programs of the SCR.

 

happy, neutral, and unhappy smiley faces on a touch screen
Numbers Are Convincing, Not Dull and Uninspiring
Ellen Peters, director of the Center for Science Communication Research, tells the Yakima Herald-Republic that people prefer numerical data when making decisions. Peters wrote a book about numeracy.  
illustration depicting a innumeracy concept
SOJC’s Peters: People Want Data, But Not Too Much
Using too much data when writing about problems like climate change can spark anxiety, writes Ellen Peters, director of the SOJC’s Center for Science Communication Research.
a small town with thick wildfire smoke
Too Much or Too Little Info about Smoke Can Be Risky
When it comes to warning people about smoke hazards, offering too little or too much info are both risky, says Cathy Slavik, a postdoc fellow at the SOJC’s Center for Science Communication Research.
evergreen trees silhouetted against a hazy red sky
SOJC Research Featured in Multimedia Wildfire Package
SOJC findings on protecting children from the risks of smoke is highlighted in a multimedia package focused on how UO scientists and researchers are working to understand and mitigate wildfires.  
digitally manipulated image shows a thumbs up symbol in the negative space of a tree canopy
When Talking about Climate Change, Numbers Matter
Scientists may be overlooking an effective way to educate the public about climate change, according to a study led by Ellen Peters, director of the SOJC’s Center for Science Communication Research.
wildfire smoke over Eugene, Oregon
Revised Infographics Help Protect Children from Smoke
SOJC researchers from the Center for Science Communication Research talk to Jefferson Public Radio about their efforts to design new infographics that better communicate increased wildfire smoke risks to kids.
black and white portrait of John Sutter
New Professor Will Focus on Environmental Communication
John Sutter brings experience as an environmental documentarian, reporter and educator to the SOJC.
wildfire smoke obscures a view of a bridge in Portland, Oregon
SOJC Researchers Find Smoke Warning Graphics Lacking
Revising air pollution infographics used by U.S. government agencies may better help protect children from health risks posed by wildfire smoke, according to a paper by SOJC researcher Catherine Slavik.
Sof Fox, a UO science communication minor, stands at a table laid out with informational materials with a river and pine forest in the background
Science Communication Minor Connects Science with People
SOJC’s science communication minor is open to all majors and focuses on communicating science with diverse audiences.
covid vaccine vials from different brands
SOJC Research: People Want to Choose Vaccine Brand
The “pleasure of choice” may be a simple, though partial, solution to increasing vaccine rates for diseases like COVID-19, said Ellen Peters, director of the SOJC's Center for Science Communication Research.