Dutch people are interested in science, but want to be more involved
Citizens still see great value in science communication and want to be increasingly involved in science. This is evident from research by the National Expertise Centre for Science & Society (NEWS) and researchers from the Science Communication and Society department at Leiden University.
Ionica Smeets, professor of science communication and co-founder and chairperson of NEWS, explains: ‘This research shows that many citizens would like to be more involved in science, which is very encouraging.’
In the lead-up to the establishment of NEWS, researchers from Leiden University and NEWS asked Dutch citizens, both young and old, how they experience science and what role science communication plays in it. An online survey was conducted through market research firm MWM2, and focus groups were organized with target groups having different levels of connection to science.
‘To bridge the gap between science and society, it’s important to make science accessible to young people who don’t come into contact with it naturally in their surroundings,’ one of the study participants explains.
Interest in science is growing
The interest of Dutch citizens in participating in science appears to be growing. People are interested in science (63%), and in their free time, they enjoy taking part in activities that teach them something about science. As one participant shares: ‘I want to gain more in-depth knowledge, but also learn new things.’
At the same time, some citizens feel they don’t have enough time to be involved in science, as a high school student explains: ‘I’d like to focus on one subject and dive deeper, but we don’t have enough time to really think about it.’
Publication in JCOM
On Monday, the research was published in the scientific journal for communication, JCOM. The findings provide guidance for inclusive and effective science communication. Notable focal points for effective science communication suggested by participants include building trust in science, engaging young people, and strengthening science’s presence in society.
With the publication, the researchers also highlight the obstacles that citizens face. For instance, a quarter of participants report experiencing a knowledge gap, and only a small percentage are actually involved in scientific research, while the majority of participants recognize the importance of involving citizens in research: ‘You must definitely involve citizens, otherwise, you have no connection with society.’
What is NEWS?
The National Expertise Centre for Science & Society (NEWS) promotes the connection between science and society through better science communication. The foundation was established in 2024 and supports and connects research, practice, and policy related to science communication.