Irish knowledge of science below EU average

There is not a strong public understanding of science in Ireland according to the Eurobarometer survey “Science and Technology” published in June. The objective of the survey was to assess European citizens’ general attitudes towards science and technology. 71% of Irish respondents were interested in science but just 56% felt they were moderately or well informed about science. Thus it appears that our interest in science and technology issues is not adequately met by the information supply.

Figures for our interest and knowledge about science fall below the European averages. This is worrying because the development of a strong research and innovation ecosystem is central to a Government framework for economic renewal. A critical component of this ecosystem is a supply of well trained graduates of science, engineering and technology. Such a supply will not be forthcoming if there is little public interest and discourse around science generally and an understanding of its importance in contributing to a smart economy.

If we fail to address the need to improve science communication with urgency many of the other investments and strategies in relation to technology and scientific endeavour will fail. Science news only appears in many media outlets either under a specialist section or when there has been a “big find”. A vast group of stakeholders need to take increased responsibility for regularly informing the general public about the nature of their work, anticipated outcomes and the need to continue investment in R&D.  Researchers in industry need to speak publicly in simple language about their scientific work and its context.  They need to communicate how developments in science and technology have contributed to product development in all sectors, from the pharmaceutical and ICT industries to medical devices and leisure industries. R&D is at the heart of many Irish industries and future product development will depend on a future generation of scientists and technologists.

Scientists in academia also need to communicate the value of their work. While most Europeans feel that senior scientists are best qualified to convey scientific information, they believe that they are not efficient in doing so. 55% of people surveyed in Ireland agree that scientists are not putting enough effort into informing the public about new developments in science and technology.

Science teachers and career guidance counsellors need to understand the diverse sectors in which science graduates can find rewarding, challenging jobs. There needs to be a discussion, not only about the job opportunities but about the lifelong skills attained in studying science at 3rd level.  While 70% of those surveyed in Ireland agree that thanks to science and technology, there will be more opportunities for future generations, only 25% think that the Government is doing enough to interest young people in science.

There have been moves to improve science understanding and awareness. Since its opening the Science Gallery has had more than half a million visitors. The BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition attracts more than 34,000 people annually. There is clearly an appetite for well organised novel outreach programmes. However we need to move these stand-alone events to the common discourse, so that science is seen as part of everyday Irish culture, a subject which can capture young people’s imagination and inspire them to study further and work in the field.

As a country, we are not winning the hearts and minds of the population to become more involved in science. The hosting of the European City of Science by Dublin in 2012 is something which Ireland must succeed in – not just for 2012 but in providing a lasting legacy of commitment to science and scientific outreach and awareness.

The Eurobarometer survey is commissioned by the European Commission’s Directorate General (DG) for Research Training and Development. For the full report, go to  http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/archives/ebs/ebs_340_en.pdf

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