Beyond books: engaging and connecting through research

The conventional format for presenting research in a journal or publication doesn’t have to be the only way to share information. That’s why the Young Researchers workshop provided a platform for discussing various presentation methods and evaluating their effectiveness in real-world situations. The intense two-day research workshop began on 29 May. When the clock turned 9, participants started to show up at Ulls Hus, at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), campus Ultuna. The participants for this workshop have a common interest in food systems and were there to learn about alternative ways of communicating scientific research than just through journal articles. 

Linguistics can help reach new audiences 

Magnus Linton, journalist and writer, kicked off the workshop by sharing 7 “necessary changes of mindset” you must consider enabling your research to reach a wider audience. It’s important to remember that even in a journal article, you can still infuse it with originality and humour. Magnus refers to it as adjusting formality, emphasizing the use of active voice and spoken language, and avoiding zombie nouns and excessive sign posting. Another aspect is motion, meaning that it is important to connect your writing to contemporary global themes and events. He also referred to the “zoom problem”, explaining how passive participation in online meetings at a motion-less screen can make it difficult to focus and engage. “More cameras”, or in this case more dimension and motion, can help to engage the reader. Additionally, opening strongly, such as an impressive fact, dilemma or maybe even a controversial statement, can help the writer catch people’s interest.  

Beyond the academic text approach 

Before concluding day one, Professor Ashok Swain shared his experiences with social media activism. Ashok pointed out that one of the greatest benefits of social media activism is its wide reach and cost-effectiveness, allowing real-time communication with people. However, he also mentioned some drawbacks, such as the risk of misinformation, misinterpretation and the creation of echo-chambers, where there is a limited exposure to diverse perspectives.  

“Social media algorithms can exacerbate the creation of echo-chambers by making polarized groups receive different perspectives of the same event or matter.” – Ashok Swain

Putting knowledge into practice: crafting compelling podcast 

Art of science communication is to find ways to reach the audiences in the most accessible languages and platforms. Scholarly podcaster Ian M. Cook shared some of his insights as a fellow academic, who has taken a unique path to share his research. Following his education as a PhD graduate in sociology and social anthropology, Ian found an interest in podcasting and its possibilities. There is a wide variety of mediums for communication, and researchers should reconsider valuing more of these possibilities. Journal articles does not equal good scholarship, but communicating via films, cartoon, news articles etc. can be just as valuable. 

A podcast can be described as a series of audio or video episodes that listeners can subscribe to, fostering a dynamic relationship between the host and the audience. This medium allows creators to engage directly with their listeners, making it ideal for reaching niche audiences and networking within a specific field. Ian explained the way to go to start your own podcast:  

• Establish a clear objective and structure the content effectively. 

• Begin with a compelling introduction, perhaps visually with the help of tools like PowerPoint. 

• Come up with a name for your podcast, as well as titles for your episodes. 

• Embrace your unique voice and proceed confidently (and remember that mistakes are part of the learning process!). 

• To market your podcast, focus on growing your audience through social media, and create audiograms – short clips that are perfect for sharing online. 

“Bridging the gap between theory and practice, your podcast can serve as a practical communication tool within your budget, helping to turn ideas into actionable outcomes. So, get hands-on and start podcasting!” – Ian M. Cook

Following this, the participants gathered in groups to put the learning into practice. It was time to create a short podcast trailer, thanks to the equipment provided by Ian. After a couple of hours of brainstorming, writing the plot, recording, clipping, and adding sound effects, it was time for the reveal. The groups got to play their trailer for the rest of the groups and receive feedback before wrapping up the workshop. 

From Reflection to Action 

During an insightful and vibrant exchange from the participants, it became evident that participants were introduced to a new way of communicating research that they all found intriguing and fruitful in the way that they could reach new audiences. 

SIANI asked participants what they liked most about using podcasts for research communication. One of the participants answered that “Podcasts offer an experimental space to translate our research into smaller consumable chunks of information in a time-saving manner.” Another participant said “Conducting research on the topic and selecting the key points for discussion is crucial. I particularly enjoyed the editing process, despite its technical nature. I was inspired by our trainer, Ian, who introduced the concept of using interviews or podcasts as a means of data collection for the research itself. This innovative approach is something I’m eager to explore.” 

After the workshop, we also asked the participants what they will bring into their work and/or research from the workshop. One participant answered that she learnt that “Research communication can be achieved through a simpler, user-friendly, and cost-effective medium such as podcasts.” and that she can see herself using podcasting as a means of knowledge exchange in the future, with adequate resources. Similarly, another participant shared that she learnt that “there is a world outside the academic bubble that is interested in learning about research outcomes, if only it’s presented in a convincing and digestible manner.”. This participant also shared that in the coming time, her aim is to create at least one podcast series covering topics related to gender and agri-food systems. 

Overall, the attendees were happy with the workshop and the lessons they learned from it. Among the reflections we received, these are some that stood out:  

“I will propose to my project lead to make a podcast series.” 

After the workshop, I have: “Gained understanding of how my research or work can make a larger impact.” 

“Participating in the Young Researchers Workshop […] significantly enhanced my professional work by providing cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills, expanding my professional network, and offering opportunities for collaboration and funding. I gained global perspectives, engaged in career development, and increased the visibility of my research.”

Lastly, do not miss an opportunity to listen to the aspirations of our participants, and a great ten-minute secret (not anymore) about how to start a podcast by Ian in the podcast link below.