Abstract:

The public's perception of scientific research and researchers is often characterized by a combination of admiration, curiosity, and scepticism. While many individuals hold researchers in high regard for their dedication to progress and innovation, scepticism may arise in relation to certain ethical concerns or questions. A perceived distance between researchers and the public can exist due to the complexity of scientific work and the specialized vocabulary utilized during conferences or outreach events, which can contribute to misunderstandings [1, 2]. Additionally, stereotypes of researchers as highly skilled individuals immersed in laboratories and detached from everyday life can exacerbate this gap. However, in recent times, efforts have been made to bridge this divide. Science communication has gained prominence as researchers strive to make their work more accessible, engaging, and transparent, with the aim of demystifying the scientific process and fostering a better understanding and appreciation of the crucial role that research plays in shaping our collective future. This effort also encourages public interest in scientific activities or future studies in scientific fields, particularly among young people [3, 4]. In order to address the public opinion an exploratory study was conducted through the distribution of a survey to the public who attended the science dissemination event "La noche europea de l@s investigador@s" which is part of a European science dissemination project promoted by the European Commission since 2005 as part of the Marie Skÿodowska-Curie actions of the Horizon Europe program. The survey assessed various aspects, including the public's views on science, their perception of researchers as individuals, and the impact of scientific dissemination activities on vocational training, among other variables. The collected data were analysed using descriptive and trend statistics.

References:
[1] M. R. Ghiara, "Who talk about science?," EPITOME, pp. 295-295, 2011, doi: https://hdl.handle.net/11588/491631
[2] A. S. Rajput and S. Sharma, "Top Indian scientists as public communicators: a survey of their perceptions, attitudes and communication behaviors," Scientometrics, vol. 127, no. 6, pp. 3167-3192, 2022, doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11192-022-04405-7.
[3] A. J. S. Oliveira and C. B. M. Oliveira, "Island of science laboratory: scientific divulgation with vector for popularization of science," International Journal of Advanced Engineering Research and Science, vol. 7, no. 5, 2020, doi: https://journal-repository.theshillonga.com/index.php/ijaers/article/view/1944.
[4] M. J. Valderrama et al., "Educating in antimicrobial resistance awareness: adaptation of the Small World Initiative program to service-learning," FEMS Microbiology Letters, vol. 365, no. 17, 2018, doi: https://doi.org/10.1093/femsle/fny161.

Keywords:

Scientific divulgation, Divulgation event, Public survey, Public opinion, Impact of science.