Articles | Volume 8, issue 2
https://doi.org/10.5194/gc-8-125-2025
© Author(s) 2025. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
https://doi.org/10.5194/gc-8-125-2025
© Author(s) 2025. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Research article
| 
02 Jun 2025
Research article |
| 02 Jun 2025
| 02 Jun 2025
Geoscience communication: a content analysis of practice in British Columbia, Canada, using science communication models
Courtney C. Onstad
CORRESPONDING AUTHOR
Department of Earth Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Canada
Eileen van der Flier-Keller
Department of Earth Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Canada
Related subject area
Subject: Geoscience engagement | Keyword: Communication theories
GC Insights: Rainbow colour maps remain widely used in the geosciences
Richard M. Westaway
Geosci. Commun., 5, 83–86, https://doi.org/10.5194/gc-5-83-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/gc-5-83-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
Rainbow and red–green colour schemes are widely used in scientific publications despite being known to be problematic, particularly to people with colour blindness. This study investigates to what extent such colour schemes are used in geoscience publications. Based on a desk survey of over 2500 papers from six journals between 2005 and 2020, it is found that over half of the published papers have maps or graphs with colour issues that are therefore potentially misleading to readers.
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Short summary
Our study investigates geoscience communication in British Columbia, Canada, by examining the application of theory in practice. Using content analysis, we assess how and why geoscience communicators engage the public. We find the use of the deficit model is prevalent, which emphasizes knowledge transfer rather than fostering dialogue or participatory approaches. This research illuminates current practices and guides future endeavours in theory development and science communication practice.
Our study investigates geoscience communication in British Columbia, Canada, by examining the...
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