Effective Social and Digital Media Strategies for Scientists

Learning Objectives

To provide participants with practical guidance and a strategic framework for communicating science and engineering through the development of a social and digital media strategy for their organization or initiative.

Workshop Description

Social media and the democratization of content have had a major impact on how scientists and engineers communicate and engage with their audiences. The world of one-way communication, of one source to many readers, viewers or listeners – has rapidly changed into a multi-faceted communications universe, where niche-audience customization for increased relevancy has become the norm. 

To take advantage of the opportunities and meet the challenges presented by the evolving digital media landscape, scientists and engineers need to go beyond tactics and employ a strategic approach to their engagement on digital channels. Actions need to go far beyond merely opening a few social media accounts. As science communication matures in its approach to digital, more resources are being devoted to content strategy, data analytics, channel strategy, technology and overarching social business strategy.  Through this workshop, scientists and engineers will learn more about the powerful paradigm shift that these tools have introduced in our society and the citizen culture that embraces and expects participation, collaboration, transparency and speed.