Aimed at researchers seeking to engage the public with their work, as well as postgraduate students exploring practical research communication, this book provides a theoretically grounded introduction to diverse public engagement approaches. Organised into three sections, it begins by examining the historical development of public engagement and the contemporary drivers behind it, including the growing focus on inclusivity. The second section outlines practical methods-from face-to-face communication in settings such as festivals to artistic collaborations, digital tools, citizen science, and co-creation. Each chapter connects practice with theory, considering audiences, interactivity, and impact. The final section explores the increasing professionalism of the field, addressing ethics and the role of communication in generating research impact. The book concludes by emphasising the importance of sharing both the successes and limitations of emerging engagement practices.
Clare Wilkinson is an Associate Professor and Co-Director of the Science Communication Unit, UWE Bristol. Working in science communication for over 20 years, she has published two co-authored books, and in 2020 she became a series editor for Bristol University Press where for 'Contemporary Issues in Science Communication'. Clare’s work has included four chapters in edited books and over 30 peer reviewed articles in journals.
Emma Weitkamp is Professor of Science Communication and Co-Director of the Science Communication Unit, UWE Bristol. With a background in both practical science communication and science communication research, she has published widely for both academic and practitioner audiences. Emma co-authored or edited three books and her work has been included in 11 book chapters and she has published around 40 peer reviewed journal articles. She was editor of the peer reviewed journal, Journal of Science Communication from 2014 – 2022.