EXPLORING THAI SCIENTISTS’ BEHAVIOR TO ENGAGE IN SCIENCE COMMUNICATION TRAINING

Pham Truong  Giang; N  Paoprasert; S  Srisawadi; Joe  Pacal

Pham Truong Giang Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
N Paoprasert Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
S Srisawadi National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, Thailand
Joe Pacal Global Innovation Design - Imperial College London, UK

Abstrak

Effective science communication plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between scientific communities and the public, fostering informed societal decision-making, and contributing to sustainable development across various sectors. This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the intentions and behaviors of Thai scientists towards science communication training within Thailand's distinctive cultural and educational landscape. Utilizing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling and the Integrated Behavior Model, our research examined a sample of 73 scientists from various fields including academia, healthcare, and government across areas in Thailand. The findings reveal that perceived control has a direct impact on Thai scientists' intentions to participate in science communication training and highlight the effect of such intentions on the actual behavior of engaging in these training programs. The study also highlights the role of resource allocation and past behavior in shaping actual engagement in science communication activities. Moreover, we discovered an inverse relationship between injunctive norms and intentions, suggesting that perceived peer pressure or expectations might not invariably foster an individual's intention to undergo science communication training. This finding invites further exploration into the cultural and institutional dynamics that might contribute to this outcome. Our research contributes to the global dialogue on science communication by providing unique insights into the factors that encourage scientists from engaging in communication training within a non-Western context. By underscoring the factors influencing Thai scientists' intentions and participation in science communication training, our goal is to offer insights to institutions and policymakers. This guidance is crucial for the strategic allocation of funding and time in the development of training programs tailored for scientists and science communicators, not only in Thailand but across ASEAN nations. Through this approach, we seek to enhance the effectiveness of science communication, fostering a well-informed public dialogue on scientific issues throughout the region.

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