10 Examples Of Science Journalism That Connects With Audiences
1. Sinking Cities
Our first article combines data journalism with interactive graphics to discuss the impact of rising ocean levels on Aotearoa, New Zealand.
The reporting for Sinking Cities incorporates interactive visualisations and personal stories of those who are directly affected by the rising tide levels. The visualisations are a great way to explain the scientific research behind sea-level rises, and the potential impact they could have on Aotearoa.
This article has a strong message that highlights the urgency of taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emission and mitigate the effects caused by climate change.
2. Cancer Treatment
Science journalism has been a vital part of the communication work of research institutes for the past decade. The authors of most major scientific papers work in the same institutions as the writer, making it easier to reach experts in many scientific fields. Many marketing and communication teams now realise that academic research can be their greatest differentiator.
Researchers at the University of Oxford have spent many years researching ways to manipulate viruses in order to target cancer.
This piece of scientific journalism examines why cancer is difficult to treat, and why researchers are trying a new approach. The article uses video explanations to explain how genetically-modified ‘oncolytic virus’ are being tested for breakthrough cancer treatments.
Interviews with leading cancer researchers reveal their perspectives on how treatments are developed, and what the future holds. This complex topic is made easy to understand with the help of a mix of expert interviews and video.
3. Glasgow: The Last Hope For Fighting Climate Change
Glasgow was hailed before the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Scotland (COP26), which will be held in 2021 as a leading example of what is possible if we take action against climate change.
In Glasgow, the last hope for fighting climate change and Calum Watson present a well rounded piece which includes interviews with scientists, activists and government officials to explain current climate policy and roadblocks that we face.
Watson’s article is interesting because he makes historically boring topics like renewable energy relevant to the readers’ experiences. In one section, Watson explains how housing insulation can not only help combat climate change but also significantly reduce monthly bills.
This is a good example of how to approach a topic that’s widely reported, like climate change, from a perspective the reader can relate to.
4. Plant Robotics: Data Science, Technology And A.I. Plant Robotics Is A Field That Has Seen A Convergence Of Data Science, Technology And A.I.
What about robots, then?
Gary Goettling examines in this article the use of robots and automation for modern farming. From crop monitoring and harvesting, to precision irrigation, and soil analysis. This might make you sleepy if you are not a farmer. Goettling, however, does an excellent job explaining how these technologies can increase productivity and efficiency to reduce the cost of supermarket goods.
The article is made more interesting by the inclusion of interactive illustrations, videos and scrolly telling pictures.
5. Aotearoa’s Disappearing Species
Farah Hanscock examines the population decline of endangered and nearly-extinct species in Aotearoa, New Zealand. She also explores factors such as habitat loss, climate change, introduced predators and habitat destruction.
Interviews with scientists and conservationists are used to discuss the challenges facing the country in protecting its biodiversity. It also features voices from Maori community members who talk about the decline of iconic animals like kiwi and kakapo as well as lesser known species such as the Canterbury mudfish, along with what it means to their culture.
The interactive elements are subtle. The reader can scroll and see animals turn red, indicating that they are in danger, before disappearing completely to represent extinction. This is a wonderful example of science reporting, as it gives a clear picture of each species’ current situation.
6. ‘Poisoned’ Near Pirana
Ahmedabad, the most populous city of Gujarat, is home to more than 8.5 million residents. Himanshi Dahiya examines the impact of the large population on the groundwater in the region. She also looks at other factors, such as the dumping and improper waste management.
Dahiya uses aerial and still photos mixed with interviews of residents to show how contamination has affected their lives. The story is able to put a human face on the problem while also incorporating the scientific research surrounding the health and environmental hazards of landfills.
7. Scientists Gain Access To Marijuana After Decriminalization
This piece examines the difficulties scientists face when conducting marijuana research, as federal regulations and laws are constantly changing. Woolston gathered detailed information from his interviews with scientists about their practice and the potential benefits of the research. This includes the development of new medication and treatments for conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy and anxiety.
This article is an excellent example of a non-biased approach to a controversial subject, with interviews and scientific insights that allow the reader to draw his own conclusions.
8. Standstill On The Freeway
A piece on traffic jams. It sounds like a snorefest. This article about German highways is interactive thanks to the journalist Marielle Klein’s mix of statistics, data and interviews.
Interviews with experts and interactive graphics placed throughout the article allow readers to understand how holidays and weather conditions impact German roads. The article does not just focus on the negative aspects of traffic jams, but also explains why they occur and how you can prevent them.
9. Rewilding
Science journalists’ investigations of natural habitats and eco-systems is a staple.
Online platforms such as The Beautiful Truth have embraced a new way of telling these stories. The article Rewilding has a lot of interactive elements. These include scrolly telling, quotes, photos, and embedded YouTube videos.
This article is different than some others in our list. Instead of using interviews, it was written from Jonathon Thompson’s perspective. The article has a personal touch, Thomson’s voice is clearly heard, whether he is discussing the role that natural ecosystems play in carbon sequestration, or the importance of protecting and restoring habitats to mitigate climate change.
10. The Wilderness Of Water
Our final article has it all – embedded videos, scrolly tellings, illustrated maps, and statistical research. These visual storytelling techniques are used to frame a conversation on a topic that is becoming increasingly important — our oceans.
UNDP discusses the current efforts being made to protect marine eco-systems in the Pacific Islands. The article has been divided into sections. For example, plastic pollution and greenhouse gas emissions are discussed separately. The article is written in a scrolly telling style, so it’s a good idea to break up the sections. Statistics and images can be used to illustrate how these specific areas affect preservation.
The piece is also a winner because it gives community-led conservation efforts voice. The authors highlight the importance and the need for marine conservation by interviewing a variety of experts and members of the community.
