Engaging, not Preaching

Okay, still not up to party posts. I will get there, I promise. Maybe even one tonight, which means (duh, duh, duuuhhh!) two posts in one day!!

Anyway, just wanted to share this article I found today: Science Engagement in Australia is a 20th Century Toy. I did say I would share science communication things on occasion.

The article says:
Australia is stuck in what theorists call the deficit model, in which the all-knowing scientists impart their knowledge to the empty vessels known as “the public”.

Generally, we consider the deficit model to be a bad thing; the public are NOT empty vessels, and good communication is two way. I agree with that, but the article got me thinking that it is really hard to break out of that model. Perhaps it is because the idea of Western education is founded on the concept - education is merely learning new facts (thereby filling empty vessels). We are slowly moving beyond this, but we have a long way to go.

Maybe because it is easier to stick to this mindframe - think of the simplicity of preparing a lecture on a topic as opposed to planning an interactive learning activity. Of preaching a message to an audience, instead of waiting for and responding to their response.

I got me thinking - most of the 'science-promoting' tools that I know and love are based on the deficit model. :( That is very distressing. Science centres (even though they are interactive, there is still the concept of teaching visitors), Science Week, public lectures.

The article suggests engaging the public requires them to be involved in the debate. But how do you actually do that? How do you let anyone and everyone have a say and still remain legitimate? How do you let everyone get involved? How do you encourage people to look kindly on science without 'preaching' to them with knowledge?

I'm kind of stumped.

I know there are some solutions, but on a national scale, I am stumped. I hope Australian's can break the trend and find an answer, because it is so important.

I'll have to ponder this one some more.

Thoughts anyone?