Evolving germs – Communicating evolution through animations of antibiotic resistance

Evolving germs – Communicating evolution through animations of antibiotic resistance

Author: Gustav Bohlin, Linköping University, Sweden

Co-authors: Andreas Göransson, Gunnar Höst, Lena Tibell

Evolution is at the very core of biology, with broad ranging implications. These include societal issues such as microbial resistance to antibiotics and organisms’ adaptations to climate change. Previous research suggests that evolutionary knowledge may aid citizens in making informed decisions. For example, causes for antibiotic resistance, as well as recommended countermeasures, can be derived and justified through the application of evolutionary reasoning. Therefore, citizens’ knowledge of evolution forms a crucial part of scientific literacy as well as public understanding of science. Unfortunately, public understanding of evolutionary mechanisms, such as those underlying antibiotic resistance, is rudimental and associated with many misconceptions. The aim of the present study was to explore how the context of antibiotic resistance can be used to help students and members of the public to understand and apply evolutionary theory. We have developed a digital environment where one can interact with a series of animations that illustrate how antibiotic resistance arises through evolutionary mechanisms. Methodologically, we followed a qualitative approach using focus groups and observations. The main data used for analysis consist of transcripts from discussions and follow-up interviews as well as written responses to both closed and open items. The final analysis will be completed during spring, but preliminary results show that the context of antibiotic resistance facilitates volunteers’ ability to use evolutionary reasoning in several ways. These include compressing spatial and temporal scales, clarifying the role of random factors, as well as providing incentives for learning a subject that is sometimes perceived as being of little importance for contemporary societal issues. Apart from the study results, we will share useful experiences from design choices in animation-based science communication. We see implications in many PCST-related areas where informal learning is considered. These include web-based campaigns, healthcare events and science center exhibits.

Contact

The Network for the Public Communication of Science and Technology (PCST Network) is an organisation that promotes discussion on the theory and practice of communicating science, and of public discourses about science and technology and their role in society.

Email: admin@pcst.network
Web: www.pcst.network

Incorporated in the Australian Capital Territory, Australia. Registered number AO5352.

Terms and conditions  ·  Privacy policy
Disclaimer  ·  Copyright  ·  Sitemap

Copyright © PCST

Connect

PCST is the an active and influential international academic and professional organisation in the field of science communication.

Become a member

Our email discussion list is free for everyone to join and has an international audience of over 2000 subscribers.

Join the discussion list

PCST Network has co-operation agreements with the following international organisations:

EUSEA
European Science Engagement Association

IECA
International Environmental Communication Association

RedPOP
Latin American and Caribbean Network for the Popularisation of Science and Technology