Bilingual Science Communication and Outreach during Scientific Field Campaigns

Broadening participation in Earth System science requires strategic outreach efforts that engage participation from adults and younger audiences alike. Science communication spans languages and can vary in delivery, from in-person outreach to science videos. Access to science shouldn’t be limited due to language, and efforts to collaborate and contribute to the production of bilingual science material are essential.

To reach a broad audience, the Explorer Series, produced by the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), shares science with the general public through various platforms. These include on-site quarterly lectures in Boulder, CO, to videos that highlight science being conducted during field campaigns in different parts of the world. Most recently, the NCAR Education and Outreach team supported science outreach efforts in Costa Rica during the OTREC (Organization of Tropical East Pacific Convection) field campaign.

Spanish language materials for OTREC were produced, including science handouts distributed to students during K-12 school visits and a public open house, as well as bilingual (English/Spanish) language videos. Field campaign videos feature scientists, engineers, technicians, pilots, project managers, undergraduate, and graduate students, all of whom play a key role in making a field campaign possible. By featuring the diverse expertise involved in a field campaign, these videos show students that there are many pathways into science. Seeing that few professionals have a linear career path, sharing such stories can inspire students to say “I can do that, too.”

This presentation will share Spanish language materials produced for OTREC, share the design and methods of Explorer Series videos, insight on preparing for outreach during a scientific field campaign, lessons learned about dissemination and accessibility of scientific material, and connecting with the community through social media in this new digital age.