For this blog I have chosen to attach two videos. For the past classes we have discussed they responsibility of scientists and engineers as far as communication. Much of what we have covered is geared toward "dumbing it down" so that the average reader/viewer can understand what the science is while not missing the actual science involved. I have my own feelings about this thought process in general however I feel the first video is a simple representation on how simplistically some people view science or how simplistic it may have to be in order for people to understand. the second is a small clip on communication and where being to general or simplistic can get you into trouble Hope yall enjoy the videos attached.....
Fun post.
ReplyDeleteI think we'll have to talk more about this idea of dumbing things down, though. That's not the point. The point, from my perspective, is to know that--as an expert in your field--you may need to speak different kinds of languages to different audiences. One vocabulary may work for fellow engineers, while another vocabulary is needed to speak to a journalist. I can see how this is intimidating or frustrating, and it's easier just to give up. And yet, that seems to be what the scientific community is asking of itself: to step up to the plate when it comes to mastering different forms of communication.
Yes she clearly is a witch. They did one scientific experiment and proved it. Case closed. I feel the level of simplicity needed to communicate a science depends on the person lecturing/communicating the science. Clearly some people are better teachers than others and can explain topics in a way that makes clear and perfect sense even if they are describing a topic like quantum mechanics. Communication is an art.
ReplyDeleteI think this could turn out to be a very interesting topic. I always get a kick out the way movies portray science and mathematics. I think my favorite is when they attempt to show someone doing calculations in their head and show a ton of equations that aren't in anyway relevant to the calculations at hand. Example: In The Hangover when Allan is counting cards.
ReplyDeleteI like how the first video shows the idea of framing. Being the townspeople aren't the brightest bulbs in the bunch, the concept of proving she is a witch has to be broken down and taken step-by-step by dumbing down the thought process for them to comprehend. Had the crowd been a more intelligent group, the frame would have been changed to ask several questions at once to come to the conclusion that she is a witch.
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