Building capacity to understand, and to communicate genomics data, information, and research, version 1.0
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Date
2022-08-17
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Publisher
Malawi Wellcome Trust
Abstract
Type of Study: Case Study
Problem
There is a growing recognition of the importance of engaging the decision-making public on genomics-related research. However, multiple challenges exist in approaching this
engagement among which include the potential purveyors’ understanding of the information.
A report that traced how genomics findings were reported from their source in a scientific
journal through to press publications found that the reports along the continuum differed in what was said (rather than how it was said). The report premises the fact that the public needs a clear understanding of the context of reported results to make an informed judgment about their meaning. Within this public are decision-makers expected to act on data and research findings. Involving the public in genomics research is important as it is expected that a quarter of the world’s population (2 billion people) will have had their DNA sequenced by the year 2025.
This study aims at improving the understanding of genomics information and building the capacity of select purveyors of this information.
Specific Objectives
a) To explore and improve the public’s understanding of genomics in the context of Covid-19
b) To build the capacity of a select group of researchers, journalists, knowledge brokers, and policymakers around the communication of genomics research and findings to the public
Methodology
The study will involve conducting two citizen panels for decision-makers within the public,and two training sessions coupled with mentorship for selected purveyors of genomics data,information, and research.
Number of participants: 52 participants
Duration: 15 months
Expected results
Out of this study, we hope to obtain a good understanding of the policy and decision-making public’s understanding of genomics and related information and their associated social attachments. This information will be used to craft messages, guidance, and pathways for appropriate communication, hence improving understanding. From the participants, the study will also seek to train trainers on public communication of genomics research and findings.
Lastly, information from the study will be used to theorize the appropriate communication of complex technical science which will be tested further and beyond this study.
Dissemination of findings
A citizen panel report will be shared with pertinent stakeholders including COMREC, heads of research groups, research institutions, and knowledge brokerage institutions. Furthermore, we will publish our work to share lessons with peers in the academic field. We will also have a policy dialogue at the end of this work to share our findings with policy, media, and other stakeholders interested in the outcomes including representation from COMREC. Findings will also be shared with the wider consortium of genomics researchers that is held between KEMRI and OUCRU who are doing similar work on communicating complex science to non-science audiences.
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Keywords
Building capacity to understand, and to communicate genomics data, information, and research