This article explores the evolving phenomenon of science communication in social media and the norms and values that shape these online spaces. We interviewed science communicators on TikTok, one of the most popular social media platforms globally, about using generative AI to produce science-related social media content. We found that authenticity, creativity, and academic integrity are central values of online science communication and shed light on how these spaces operate.
Elephant in the lab
Interview
Conversations with innovative and critical thinkers on science, science policy, and ethics.
Articles of that category
Generative AI in knowledge work
As generative AI applications in science proliferate they prompt a self-reflection on work routines in scientific knowledge production. At the same time, scientific institutions, publishing bodies, and funding agencies are confronted with both regulatory challenges and the task of promoting the use of generative AI in line with good scientific practice.
AI, science (fiction) and the need for a human-centric approach in academia
In this opinion piece Isabella Hermann reflects on AI and how the general perception of it is shaped by pop-culturel archetypes, represented for example in movies.
What’s the Content of Fact-checks and Misinformation in Germany?
In this short analysis, Sami Nenno takes a closer look at the content of fact-checks and misinformation in Germany.
The (potential) impact of AI on the individual research process and science in general
In this interview Theresa Züger gives exciting insights about the risks and opportunities AI bears for research work and talked about tools her team is developing.
Do you dare? What female scientists expect when communicating
This short analysis focuses on female scientists as a subgroup of a large survey sample and how their assessment of public engagement differs from that of their male counterparts.
What happens to science when it communicates?
In August 2023 Benedikt Fecher conducted an interview with Clemens Blümel from the German Centre for Higher Education Research and Science Studies (DZHW) on the topic of ‘what happens when science opens up and communicates’ and the emerging challenges for future scientific communication.
Science and Society need more interaction instead of mere communication. An Interview with Volker Meyer-Guckel
In this interview Teresa Völker speaks with Dr. Volker Meyer-Guckel about challenges and possible futures of science communication.
Populism, Science and Public Discourse: An Interview with Niels Mede
Niels Mede on how the rise of populist politics affects academic work, science communication practices of scholars engaging in public discourse and ways to address these challenges.
Between societal relevance and autonomy
Peter Weingart on changing perceptions of science’s role in society, safeguarding autonomy, and the concept of dual legitimacy for scientific knowledge in policy decisions.
Newsletter
Stay in touch
Subscribe to our newsletter and don't miss out on calls for elephants and newly published articles.
Social media
Follow us
Stay informed about our posts and activities and spread the word via our social media channels.