Spanish female scientists' motivations and engagement with digital science communication

Communicating science to wider non-specialised publics has become an increasingly important component of scientists’ professional responsibilities, particularly in efforts to promote socially responsible research, public understanding of science, and public engagement of science (Loroño-Leturiondo & Davies, 2018). Yet, scientists still face challenges that hamper their active and regular involvement in science communication initiatives such as the ‘publish or perish’ dilemma, lack of time and training, and lack of professional recognition. The fast evolution of digital tools and social media, however, can partially solve this mismatch between current practices and top-down policies because digital science communication has bloomed with new genres (e.g., science blogs, podcasts, parascientific publications) (Picardi & Regina, 2008; Luzón, 2019). This paper explores what are scientists’ motivations to engage in science communication practices, and the value attached to digital forms communication. Additionally, this study is interested in voicing women scientists, an often-underrepresented group within STEM. To do so, 20 semi-structured interviews with Spanish female scientists were conducted and analysed on Atlas.ti v8.4.2 following thematic analysis principles. The analysis revealed that participants were primarily motivated by the desire to make science more accessible and to improve scientific literacy among the general public. Participants viewed digital forms of communication as means for expanding the reach of scientific knowledge in an inclusive and sustainable manner. They emphasised the relevance of video-mediated outreach activities, the amplifying role of social media, and the value of science popularization articles, science blogs, and digital newspapers. However, the findings also pointed out to the need for language and communication skills development to enhance scientists' capacity to engage diverse audiences effectively. This paper concludes by offering an informed training proposal that tailors to scientists’ current professional communicative needs.