Abstract:

Biological collections (BioCol) play an important role as non-formal educational environments that promote scientific literacy. However, BioCol managers are usually researchers that are not trained to communicate science and have minimal resources and time to do so. Here, we intend to present the concept of our project. Thus, this project focuses on empowering these researchers with science communication (SCom) tools supported by a digital platform and framed by a network communication strategy that will promote connections among BioCol and the public. The platform will not only include BioCol general information, promoting visibility and encouraging public visits but will also connect different collections and their managers. Subsequently, the developed tools and platform will then be applied in a pilot study involving the Biological Research Collection of University of Aveiro (CoBI) and the Insect Collection of University of Madeira (UMACI) to evaluate the developed strategy. The obtained results will enable efficient communication by researchers associated with BioCol, propagating the continuous flow of new information and communication of science, making this platform self-sustainable. Consequently, it will also promote lifelong learning opportunities for both the public and the collection managers.

Keywords:

Scientific Literacy, Science Communication and Education, Biological Collections, Communication Empowerment, Digital Skills.