Bridging the Gap between Writers and Scientists!

So, you're a journalist, a news blogger or maybe a freelance writer, and you're trying to get an expert source for a story that you are working on. With an overload of information on the web, how can you make sure your sources are legitimate, especially in scientific areas?

"Briefly, the problem begins with the culture of science which [can] discourage communication by scientists to the news media and the lay public. Second, journalists frequently report on scientific information incorrectly, or they are quick to cite dubious sources without being knowledgeable of what the scientific issues are really about. Finally, because science is so complex, the public understanding of science and the research process is fairly low. Combined, we have a situation where science is largely misunderstood," says Bob Conrad, founder of Bridge2Science.

Bridge2Science is an organization who's mission is to connect journalists, bloggers and writers to real scientific sources- but are they experts?

"There’s something about emerging online media that seems to draw out of the woodwork folks who use the word expert rather loosely," Mr. Conrad explains. "Part of Bridge2Science is focusing on the people who fit the traditional, and perhaps even legal, definition of an expert."

Universities, scientific foundations and research institutions are a few examples of where Bob finds his sources. "Our focus is quality rather than quantity and making sure we have the world’s best institutions represented."

"The future of journalism is in doubt, somewhat tragically. It’s my view that the model of news reporting did not appropriately keep up with emerging technologies," says Bob. The face of journalism is changing rapidly today, with more and more focus on the internet and the looming death of print media. But there is an upside. "More and more individuals and small groups will continue to shape public discussions in ways that were not happening 30 years ago."

Where does Bridge2Science fit into the new face of journalism?

"Where Bridge2Science can help is we can provide a direct connection between anyone who is writing or doing a story about pretty much any topic you can think of – from nuclear physics and climate change to computers and high tech – and give them access to a genuine expert on that topic. In other words, we can provide easy, quick connections to people who have devoted years of study into their areas of specialization. We do not limit our requests for expert sources to just journalists because bloggers, freelance writers and ordinary folks can sometimes be the ones to break amazing and important stories."

Don't we know that for a fact here on Current.com? We are part of this new media, the next generation of journalists, bloggers and writers who are finding stories, doing our own research and encouraging activism in areas we are passionate about. I hope Bridge2Science can be a great resource for you! Find out more about Bridge2Science and see my entire interview with Bob Conrad at the link!