Earlier this month, we’ve wrapped up an online series of Stickydot training courses with an international group of climate scientists from the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP). We ran five modules on facilitation skills and science communication, delivered across multiple different countries and time zones, tailored to the context of researchers working in climate modelling! Here’s what our participants had to say:
🗣️ “It was both inspiring and fun. We managed to connect with a colleague’s current communication challenges thanks to the activities in the breakout groups.”
🗣️ “I liked the opportunity to share our experiences and to discuss, as a group, on solutions to different problems. A great workshop and I learned a lot that I will try to implement – it gave me confidence!”
🗣️ “Absolutely everything was beautifully thought through, and the technical aspects of the session were super smooth. Content was very clear and interesting.”
🗣️ “I learned about facilitation and how to work with different participants, engaging them while ensuring no harm to others.”
During the training we explored the whys, whos, and hows of public engagement, while diving into the various engagement formats that can be most effective in different situations. We also practiced applying storytelling principles into the way we talk about research and how to make the most of different communication techniques that can inspire positive climate action. And we covered the skills needed to facilitate critical discussions, working towards consensus while ensuring that all participants can comfortably and meaningfully share their views and inputs. All through a combination of bite-sized presentations, interactive practical activities, and plenty of time for open discussions.
A small reflection: Climate scientists are often put in an unenviable position. Apart from the brilliant work they do, they find themselves having to endlessly reiterate the validity of their research amidst an ever-rising tide of polarisation. Which is why we can’t help but admire the perseverance and positivity of the team at the World Climate Research Programme. A big thank you for joining us, and for all the reflections you shared with us – we certainly learned a lot as well, and we are extremely motivated to keep working with climate researchers like yourselves!
— Alexandre Torres Ferreira
