Institutional environment and participants of science communication process in Poland

Analysing the institutional environment and the participants in the process of science communication in Poland indicates their diversity. Higher education institutions and the scientists employed play a special role in this process. Only a few Polish universities have specialised units responsible for coordinating popularisation activities and also implementing science communication education. As participants in a closed model of science, scientists do not have the motivation, financial resources or competences to play the key role of science communicators. This gap is filled by science spokespersons and their associations, as well as by organisations of scientists. Science journalists, science centres, museums and educational parks are also important actors in science communication, acting as a bridge between science and society. Organisations that popularise science as part of their corporate policy complete the map of science communication.

The development of information technologies offers new opportunities to establish contacts with scientists or members of the public and to present scientific content, but it also creates the need to guarantee the quality of the message. Communication through digital media opens up the field of science communication to YouTubers, influencers, science enthusiasts and activists, as well as people with social media profiles.

Science communication requires continuation and expansion of research, but more importantly, it requires policies and institutional strategies. Currently, there is a low culture of science communication in Poland, and the imperative to urgently develop this sphere should be expressed in comprehensive measures, professionalisation and institutionalisation.