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Speaking the Same Language™: Communicating Science with Indigenous Communities.

In response to research findings that the communication gap between scientists and First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples was increasing, PRA Communications and the Canadian Centre for Science Communication jointly organized this workshop. By adopting a communication style that is audience-focused, scientists could, however, help bridge this gap.

Scientists and engineers will learn latest science communication research and best practices for communicating science with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.

Attendees of the workshop will acquire knowledge on successful methods of communicating science. The Speaking the Same Language™ session utilizes expertise acquired over 30 years of communicating science with First Nation, Métis and Inuit Peoples, and through partnerships with Indigenous communicators, ethicists, and scientists. By delving into basic science communication theory, engaging in interactive exercises, and examining relevant case studies, participants will be exposed to real-life demonstrations of effective science communication.

Short Course Objectives:

Participants in this workshop will learn effective science communication and how audience-centered communication can help to create better communication with First Nation, Inuit and Métis audiences.

  • Understand what constitutes effective science communication, and how to measure outcomes.
  • Learn to develop an audience-centered approach to communication using audience analysis, demographics, psychographics, learning styles, information processing and behavioural characteristics.
  • Gain tools for trust-building, interpersonal communication skills and relationship-building.
  • Understand how First Nation, Inuit and Métis worldviews can influences and impact science communication and comprehension.
  • Learn how to measure the effectiveness of your science communication.
Target Audience:

Engineers, geologists, environmental scientists, community relations specialists, presidents & CEOs, government regulatory specialists, mine managers, and communicators.

About the Instructors:

Robert Simpson

Robert is the President and CEO of PRA Communication and the Canadian Centre for Science Communication. He is an experienced science communicator frequently engaged by the C-suite, Boards of Directors and senior technical staff for strategic advice about successfully engaging with First Nation, Inuit and Métis Peoples. Over the past 25 years, Robert has helped scientists working on mining projects to successfully communicate and help them to gain approval for environmental assessment certifications, regulatory amendments, mine expansions and mine life extensions. Robert is a global leading authority on effectively communicating mining science.

Bryan Hendry

Bryan is a senior associate at the Canadian Centre for Science Communication with three decades of Indigenous communication experience working with the Assembly of First Nations and the Chiefs of Ontario. His work has focused on health, mining, economic development and human resource development policy and communications, which included research and writing for the State of the First Nation Economy paper and the International Indigenous Summit on Energy and Mining. For the past two decades was a Senior Policy Analyst and Director of Communication for the Assembly of First Nations, where he communicated both science and social policy to First Nation Chiefs and communities throughout Canada. He was also co-chair of the National Standing Committee on Mining Essentials.

Learn Effective Communication Strategies for Trust and Understanding

Register now to secure your spot in this short course.

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