Innovative Workshop Explores Communication Strategies and Science Literacy through Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP)
According to a recent NASA report, Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP) are a great mystery and an opportunity for scientific research. However, widespread study of UAP (also known as UFOs) is hindered by long standing stigma surrounding the topic and a lack of high-quality data.
Efforts to legitimize the conversation about UAP and related research across scientific communities have gained momentum in recent years, bringing significant implications for the advancement of knowledge in various disciplines, as well as national defense, and importantly, the public’s perception of the nature and processes of science.
As part of the National Science Foundation (NSF) funded ASTRO ACCEL initiative, Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI) recently hosted a workshop called “Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP): A Dialogue on Science, Public Engagement and Communication”. The two-day event was held May 16–17, 2024, in the Washington, D.C. area. A diverse group of 26 participants attended, including physical and social scientists, communication and media experts, educators, aviation specialists, and government representatives.
Co-led by ASTRO ACCEL project team members Dr. Tim Spuck of the National Science Foundation (on temporary leave from AUI) and Dr. Gretchen Stahlman of Florida State University’s School of Information, workshop discussions focused on effective communication and education about UAP across the sciences and with the broader public. Yasmin Catricheo (AUI), Anica Miller-Rushing (AUI), and Tiffany Stone Wolbrecht (AUI) assisted on the ground with program management and moderating breakout sessions.
Specific topic areas discussed included:
- Developing communication and education strategies regarding UAP;
- Exploring the intersection of UAP research with societal implications;
- Understanding the data, information and knowledge ecosystems surrounding UAP studies;
- Integrating UAP knowledge networks across disciplines and sectors.
Although the workshop grappled with a controversial topic, participants with a range of perspectives and beliefs enjoyed the opportunity to come together and share ideas respectfully.
Notes Spuck, “As researchers, educators, and communicators of research findings we should always work to enable open dialogue, even when we might disagree strongly on a topic. This open dialogue is foundational to the practice of science and critical for new scientific discoveries. How we engage with the public and educate young learners on any scientific question matters.”
A final report documenting the activities and outcomes of the workshop is in preparation, and plans are underway for ongoing working groups and a follow-on event to build upon the findings and discussions.
“UFOs, or UAP, have captivated imaginations and provoked a sense of curiosity and intrigue for a long time,” reflects Stahlman. “Understanding our earth and space environment is a critical task for science, including social matters. UAP Studies span these areas and represent an opportunity to address a mystery and to further engage society in scientific work. This gathering was a positive step in both directions.”
The workshop’s overall success, based on feedback from participants, highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex and controversial topics. As UAP research continues to evolve, the insights and strategies developed during this event will help to bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding by promoting science and cultural literacy and facilitating effective dialogue.
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About ASTRO ACCEL: The Global Network for Accelerating Synergies Through Research On Astronomy Culture, Communication, Education and Learning (ASTRO ACCEL) is an NSF-funded initiative dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary research and education in astronomy and related fields. By promoting collaboration and innovation, ASTRO ACCEL aims to advance scientific understanding and public engagement in astronomy and space sciences.
ASTRO ACCEL project team members who served on the UAP Workshop planning committee are: Amanda Barrera (AUI), Yasmin Catricheo (AUI), Anica Miller-Rushing (AUI), Saeed Salimpour (International Astronomical Union, Office of Astronomy for Education), Tim Spuck (NSF/AUI), and Gretchen Stahlman (Florida State University, School of Information).
Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material or the UAP Workshop are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.
