Salon D
Stories With Statistics: The Interplay Between Public Engagement and Statistical Reasoning (303344)
*Neda Afsarmanesh, Sense About Science USA*Rebecca Goldin, stats.org/George Mason University
Keywords: communication, media, public engagement
Statistics can tell stories, but not without well equipped interpreters. With torrents of data available—from governmental record on voting to observational studies on eating patterns—statistics plays an increasingly prominent role in our societal landscape. Most people, including media professionals and policy makers, don’t know how to recognize the limitations of datasets, identify which statistical conclusions can (and can’t) be made with validity, or contextualize the available information.
When statisticians communicate effectively, public conversations become layered with thoughtful ways of evaluating the world, and better inform personal and societal decisions. This session will build on this principle. We will discuss examples of how public engagement can play a key role in shaping societal conversations and what topics need most clarification when working with journalists. The session will end with ideas for engagement opportunities (based on our Media Guide for Scientists and STATScheck): how do you promote statistically informed conversations when working with journalists, policy makers, or the public?