Examining science communication on Reddit: From an “Assembled” to a “Disassembling” approach

• Published in: Public understanding of science (Bristol, England) England), 2022-05, Vol.31 (4), p.473-488
• Main Authors: Edwards, Michelle L., Ziegler, Caden
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Atmospheric models; Communication; Digital media; Dismantling; Management; Mass media; Science; Scientists; Social media; Social networks
• ISSN: 0963-6625; 1361-6609
• DOI: 10.1177/09636625211057231

This study examines science communication within Ask Me Anything sessions hosted by US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists on Reddit. In addition to considering a unique social media platform, our work makes an important contribution in revealing the limitations of a traditional approach to studying science communication and modeling an alternative. First, using an “assembled” approach, we qualitatively explore themes in National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists’ posts and consider how they reflect the goals of “deficit” and “dialogue” models. Second, using a “disassembling” approach, inspired by Davies and Horst and actor-network theory, we more deeply examine our experiences studying the Ask Me Anything sessions. We then demonstrate how this alternative approach identifies “hidden” human and non-human actants that may have shaped science communication as “mediators.” We use these insights to reject the common assumption that science communication on social media occurs solely and directly between scientists and publics.