Developing an evidence base for science engagement: Expert Working Group recommendations

The Federal Government's goals for a better Australia rely on the creative capabilities of the constituent parts of the national innovation system, within which a scientifically aware Australian public needs to play a key role. The Inspiring Australia report, in particular Recommendation 15, recognizes that Australia requires a strategic capability to design, target and review effective science engagement activities to guide future investment, contributing to the building of science communication capacity, professionalism and excellence: Recommendation 15: Developing an Evidence Base. That the national initiative support a program of research in science engagement - such as baseline and longitudinal attitudinal and behavioural studies, activity audits, program evaluations and impact assessments - to inform future investment decisions by government and its partners. To this aim, a short-term Expert Working Group was commissioned by the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research to offer a plan for identifying and sharing best practice for an evidence base for science engagement in Australia. The Expert Working Group finds that much needs to be done to create stronger links between the constituent parts of Australia's national innovation system. They propose ten recommendations divided into three main themes: The Australian Public, Science Engagement Enterprises, and Funding for Science Communication, that inform Recommendation 15 of the Inspiring Australia report..