What’s it all about? Let’s break down Episode 1 to find out…
The SciComm Collective, a podcast initiative led by UWA students, is dedicated to making science accessible, engaging, and inclusive.
In our first episode, Ann Grand, former lecturer in science communication and currently an active researcher in engaged research at the National Coordinating Centre for Public Engagement, brought us together to delve into the motivations, challenges, and aspirations behind the new podcast.
How did it happen?
The SciComm Collective was born out of a desire to bridge the gap between science and the public. In mid-2024, inspired by UWA’s Grand Challenges – particularly the UN Sustainability Goals of addressing climate change and promoting a more just and equitable world – postgraduate students of Science Communication set out to create a platform where we could share our perspectives on ‘SciComm’. Unlike traditional lectures, our podcast offers a fresh and relatable approach, driven as it is by the experiences and insights of students from diverse backgrounds.
Planning for sustainability
Producing just a few episodes isn’t enough, of course! We aim to create a lasting impact by continuously evolving and adapting. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in our approach to learning and development. In Episode 1, we discuss the challenges we’ve faced, from learning how to edit and write show notes to building the necessary structures to support this podcasting journey.
The interdisciplinary nature of SciComm
Science communication is not a one-size-fits-all field; it encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from theoretical research to practical applications. At The SciComm Collective, we embrace this diversity by interviewing practitioners and discussing different careers in science communication. This approach enriches our content and also provides valuable insights for students and listeners interested in pursuing a career in this field.
Equity and accessibility
We are committed to making science communication accessible to everyone, regardless of their background, so we are trying to include diverse voices and perspectives in our podcast. By doing so, we hope to create a more inclusive and representative platform for science communication.
Reflection
In Episode 1, Ann guides us in reflecting on the unique approach of UWA’s Science Communication program. Leadership and an inclusive philosophy have helped shape the program at UWA; we have a distinct personality and approach. The SciComm Collective is a testament to the power of student-led initiatives and the impact they can have on the field of science communication.
What Next?
The SciComm Collective is not just a podcast; it is a movement driven by passionate students who are committed to making science communication more accessible, engaging, and inclusive! By sharing our journey, challenges, and insights, we hope to pave the way for future generations of science communicators.
So tune in to our latest episode to learn more about our inspiring journey and the impact we are making in the world of science communication. Thanks for joining us!
Welcome to Season 2 of The SciComm Collective podcast!
We are back and thrilled to have you join us once again for an exciting new season. But let us begin with a heartfelt thank you – this would not be possible without your support, whether you’re a listener or a reader of the content we’ve produced. In case you missed it, here’s a recap of Season 1 and our impact so far. But we’re certain this is just the beginning.
This season, it’s all about inclusive science communication. We have sought to amplify a variety of voices, but we also want to show you how science communication can be used to foster a dialogue across different disciplines and in diverse contexts.
On the first episodes of the season, you’ll hear the voices of women in STEM and how science communication can contribute to environmental action. We teamed up with the wonderful team at The Innovators’ Tea Party for our first episode, and spoke to participants (students and small environmental organisations) of the 2025 EnviroFest edition at The University of Western Australia (UWA).
Our next block, the intersections of the arts and science communication, will explore the question of whether art forms like literature and the theatre can become a channel to communicate scientific ideas. And if you’re interested in the ways that literary theory can contribute to the conversation around the theoretical foundations of science communication, our consensus reality episode is one you won’t want to miss.
We will also be delving into Indigenous knowledges and the importance of culture in practices like astronomy. Join us as we discuss matters of inclusion in science, how Western and Indigenous science differ and intersect, and how they can be interwoven for a more robust understanding of our world’s natural phenomenon.
To close our season, we’ll be hearing from Crystal Ngo, graduate of the Master of Science Communication at UWA, to discuss her most recent paper on the motivations behind science podcasting in Australia.
And don’t forget about our blog, where you’ll be able to read original work by the Science Communication students at UWA!
Camila is a PhD candidate at The University of Western Australia with an interest in transdisciplinary research and inclusive science communication. When not working on her research, you will find her at her yoga studio, crocheting cute animals or raving about her cool job at Perth Zoo.
All opinions on this website are representative of individuals and are not representative of The University of Western Australia. The University of Western Australia is not liable for content herein.
