During the current pandemic, one variable has played a significant role in the way members of the public form opinions and make decisions regarding COVID-19. Trust in science communication, or people’s confidence in the available research findings, as well as trust in the scientific and medical experts at the source of the information, directly influences the public’s willingness or unwillingness to comply with proven public health practices. Science on COVID-19 is unfolding in real time, which can be confusing for members of the public.
On October 8 at 1 p.m. Eastern, the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Center for Public Issues Education (PIE Center) will conduct a webinar on the importance of trust in science during the COVID-19 pandemic. The webinar speakers will present findings from a nationwide sample of public opinion data collected between July 23 and August 9, 2020. The speakers will also discuss recommendations to foster dialogue between scientists and trusted opinion leaders outside of the science community to communicate with the public about COVID-19.
Speakers:
Ricky Telg, PhD
Director, UF/IFAS Center for Public Issues Education
Professor, Department of Agricultural Education and Communication
University of Florida
Lauri M. Baker, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Agricultural Education and Communication
University of Florida
Angie B. Lindsey, PhD
Assistant Professor
Family, Youth and Community Sciences Department
University of Florida
Questions? Contact Phillip Stokes at p.stokes@ufl.edu
