학술논문

Science Fiction Fan Conventions as Places to Communicate Science
Document Type
Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Author
Gina Childers (ORCID 0000-0002-1717-3472); Donna GovernorKania GreerVaughan James
Source
Research in Science Education. 2024 54(2):149-166.
Subject
Science Fiction
Conferences (Gatherings)
Scientific Concepts
Scientific Literacy
Popular Culture
Access to Information
Communication (Thought Transfer)
Public Relations
Audiences
Science Education
Language
English
ISSN
0157-244X
1573-1898
Abstract
Science fiction conventions are places where the convergence of science fiction and science is discussed within diverse communities. Many of these science fiction conventions offer programming focused on science, often described as "science tracks," for science experts to share their experiences, expertise, scientific findings, and applications related to current research in connection to science fiction with the public. Framing the study within a socio-cultural context, this study surveyed experts' (n = 19) perceived beliefs of science communication at science fiction conventions. Experts cited "accessibility" and "promoting scientific curiosity" as the greatest benefits and identified "misconceptions" or "misinterpretation" by the audience as challenges. Overall, experts agreed that "communicating science is important" and "science fiction has a great impact on science." Because of the public access to experts, it is important to highlight the potential influence science fiction conventions may have on science communication via socio-cultural experiences and contexts within popular culture.