The assembly and circulation of science:

Abstract

This article positions narrative as a needed, but often lacking, communicative resource for science technology engineering and mathematics (STEM) professionals. While STEM curricula is quite effective at teaching students discipline-specific knowledge and preparing future generations of scientists to communicate within collegial discourse communities, there has been little attention paid to the importance of communicating effectively with public audiences—despite the fact that the public is a major stakeholder in scientific innovation. This article takes up this gap in current STEM curricula in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of best practices in communicating science, as well as the ways that these practices can be incorporated into academic programs. In achieving this goal, this article draws upon current pedagogical and curricular models in communication studies in its examination of the ways students at a leading American undergraduate STEM institution are taught to engage with public audiences. Of specific importance are the benefits of narrative in building bridges between academic and public stakeholders, particularly the ability of narrative to increase comprehension, interest, and engagement when communicating science to non-expert audiences.