Training for communication in forensic science

Author(s):  
Brenda L. Hoffman ◽  
Lucina Hackman ◽  
Laura A. Lindenfeld

Scientists are increasingly becoming better prepared to communicate science in a variety of different settings, yet significantly less attention has been paid to communicating science in the courtroom, a setting which carries major societal impact. This article explores key issues surrounding science communication in the courtroom. We outline a conceptual system for communication training that includes ideas about fostering greater collaboration across different stakeholder groups, and training expert witnesses to communicate scientific evidence in ways that are accessible and accurate. Critical to this concept is supporting communication that upholds the integrity of the science, while also maintaining expectations for interactions in the courtroom.

2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (03) ◽  
pp. A01
Author(s):  
Sarah Rachael Davies ◽  
Suzanne Franks ◽  
Joseph Roche ◽  
Ana Lucia Schmidt ◽  
Rebecca Wells ◽  
...  

European science communication project QUEST surveyed and reviewed different aspects of European science communication, including science journalism, teaching and training in science communication, social media activity, and science in museums. This article draws together themes that collectively emerge from this research to present an overview of key issues in science communication across Europe. We discuss four central dynamics — fragmentation within research and practice; a landscape in transition; the importance of format and context; and the dominance of critical and dialogic approaches as best practice — and illustrate these with empirical material from across our datasets. In closing we reflect upon the implications of this summary of European science communication.


Animals ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (5) ◽  
pp. 1358
Author(s):  
Glen Mactaggart ◽  
Natalie Waran ◽  
Clive J.C. Phillips

Identifying key welfare issues for thoroughbred racehorses could lead to an improvement in standards. A lack of scientific information on the relative importance of key issues was addressed by soliciting the views of, first, welfare experts in the industry and, second, a broader group of stakeholders, who selected the best welfare options by adaptive conjoint analysis. The experts represented racehorse breeders, veterinarians, trainers, owners, government officials, salespeople, farriers, transporters, and horse re-trainers for post-racing activities. In a focus group meeting, the experts identified fourteen key welfare issues, each with two to four levels that related to common husbandry practices. Then, in an internet survey, 224 stakeholders ranked the issues using adaptive conjoint analysis, in declining importance, as: horsemanship > health and disease > education of the horse > track design and surface > ventilation > stabling > weaning > transport > nutrition > wastage > heat and humidity > whips > environment > gear. Relatively uniform responses to the survey by the different stakeholder groups suggested that there was a common view on what had the biggest impact on welfare. An exception was a greater rating given by women than men to the importance of correct horse nutrition. The rating of importance for welfare of different levels of provision of each issue mostly conformed to the scientific evidence, with the exception of weaning. This understanding of the importance of welfare issues for thoroughbred racehorses could be used to target interventions to the most serious problems.


2020 ◽  
Vol 2 (2(May-August)) ◽  
pp. e342020
Author(s):  
Luciano Lopes Furlanetti ◽  
Matheus Fernando Manzolli Ballestero ◽  
Ricardo Santos De Oliveira

Introduction: Hydrocephalus is the most common neurosurgical condition among children worldwide and shunt diversion of the cerebral-spinal fluid (CSF) has been widely available. The aim of the present study was to perform a systematic review on types and models of shunt devices available and critically evaluate scientific evidence in favor of the usage of specific technologies. Methods: Searches of the PubMed database were performed for relevant articles published from until March 2020. Appropriate keywords were used to identify all studies, including: “shunt”, “technology”, “hydrocephalus”, “children”, “pediatric”. The indications and scientific evidence in favor of the usage of specific shunt technology for the treatment of hydrocephalus according to age, underlying pathology and other features of specific patients were discussed under the light of the current literature. Results: A total of 178 peer-reviewed papers were found. Out of them, only 21 matched our inclusion criteria and were finally selected. The papers were reviewed and described technology discussed below. A summary of the main types of shunts commercially available worldwide, including their respective working mechanism and construction was also included. Conclusion:Shunt technology has evolved during the last decades and continues to be intensively developed. Despite of the huge arsenal of different types of shunt systems currently available on the market, the treatment of hydrocephalus remains challenging. Investment in research, education and training, as well as prospective randomized multicentric controlled trials evaluating the role of specific valves in the treatment of individual group of hydrocephalic pediatric patients are urgently needed.


2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (03) ◽  
pp. A06
Author(s):  
Arko Olesk ◽  
Berit Renser ◽  
Laura Bell ◽  
Alessandra Fornetti ◽  
Suzanne Franks ◽  
...  

Although the need to improve quality of science communication is often mentioned in public discussions, the science communication literature offers few conceptualizations of quality. We used a concept mapping approach, involving representatives of various science communication stakeholder groups working collaboratively, to propose a framework of quality. The framework organizes individual elements of quality into twelve indicators arranged into three dimensions: trustworthiness and scientific rigour, presentation and style, and connection with society. The framework supports science communicators in reflecting on their current practices and designing new activities, potentially improving communication effectiveness.


2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (2) ◽  
pp. 27-33
Author(s):  
Evan Miller

Science has historically held a position of high regard in society. Science is intimately connected to law. These disciplines meet in the courtroom. Due to the nature of civil and criminal disputes in the United States, litigators retain expert witnesses to explicate nuanced subjects, including science. Unfortunately, the common law system has not always favored sound science. This paper examines how science and law can work in concert to benefit all people. Some feel that scientists should simply educate courtrooms, but further scrutiny questions the feasibility of this approach. Understanding the sociology of scientific knowledge elucidates this debate and is applied to the forensic sciences. Science and law have the capacity to improve the human condition and increase equity among all people. KEYWORDS: Science Communication; Expert Witnesses; Science; Public Perception; Law; Misinformation


2014 ◽  
Vol 38 (2) ◽  
pp. 118-123 ◽  
Author(s):  
E. Paul Zehr

Engaging communication of complex scientific concepts with the general public requires more than simplification. Compelling, relevant, and timely points of linkage between scientific concepts and the experiences and interests of the general public are needed. Pop-culture icons such as superheroes can represent excellent opportunities for exploring scientific concepts in a mental “landscape” that is comfortable and familiar. Using an established icon as a familiar frame of reference, complex scientific concepts can then be discussed in a more accessible manner. In this framework, scientists and the general public use the cultural icon to occupy a commonly known performance characteristic. For example, Batman represents a globally recognized icon who represents the ultimate response to exercise and training. The physiology that underlies Batman's abilities can then be discussed and explored using real scientific examples that highlight truths and fallacies contained in the presentation of pop-culture icons. Critically, it is not important whether the popular representation of the icon shows correct science because the real science can be revealed in discussing the character through this lens. Scientists and educators can then use these icons as foils for exploring complex ideas in a context that is less threatening and more comfortable for the target audience. A “middle-ground hypothesis” for science communication is proposed in which pop-culture icons are used to exploring scientific concepts in a bridging mental landscape that is comfortable and familiar. This approach is encouraged for communication with all nonscientists regardless of age.


PEDIATRICS ◽  
1995 ◽  
Vol 95 (6) ◽  
pp. 934-936 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gary N. McAbee

Many medical and legal commentators have expressed concern about the validity of scientific evidence that is proffered by expert witnesses at depositions and in courts of law.1,2 The sparse research that is available on the testimony of medical expert witnesses suggests that it is frequently flawed and erroneous.3 On June 28, 1993, the United States (US) Supreme Court ruled on the proper standard for admissibility of scientific evidence in the courtroom.4 Although the ruling establishes guidelines that are binding only in federal courts, it is expected that many state courts will follow the Court's ruling. This commentary reviews the Court's guidelines for admissibility of expert testimony, and expresses concern about their applicability in future cases involving scientific testimony.


Author(s):  
Jeffrey E. Barnett ◽  
Jeffrey Zimmerman

Although most mental health professionals receive excellent education and training that helps them to become competent and highly effective clinicians, graduate school tends not to provide training in the business side of practice that is needed for success in private practice. Many trainees and early-career clinicians may think they learned in graduate school all they need to know to be successful in the business of practice. Unfortunately, this is generally not true and many of those who enter private practice are poorly prepared for planning, establishing, and running a successful private practice. This chapter addresses the key issues every mental health clinician should know about when contemplating opening a private practice. Business and financial issues are addressed, including developing a business plan and utilizing various consultants. This chapter addresses the myth that excellent clinical skills are sufficient for success in the business of private mental health practice.


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