Promoting Informed Decision-Making: The Role of Message Structure

The authors analyze two empirical explorations of relationships between the composition of risk message and critical thinking within audiences

Organizational Satisfaction And Participation: Findings from a Study Of ACE Members

Organizations which serve information professionals, such as Agricultural Communicators in Education, must continue to respond to the needs of members through relevant programs and professional opportunities. The study reported here examines satisfaction and participation within the organization. Overall, the study found broad-based member satisfaction. But while there is widespread support, there are segments of the membership which need attention. Findings also identify organizational areas which can be improved, particularly in the conduct of the Critique and Awards Program and in meeting the expectations of members involved in Special Interest Groups (SIG). Specific questions that may have organizational policy implications are raised. The study\u27s finding that member participation positively is related to overall satisfaction with ACE is encouraging. One important goal for ACE, then, would be to encourage increased participation. And, because newer members tend to be the most dissatisfied with ACE, emphasis should be placed on immediately getting them more involved in ACE activities

Frames for public discourse on biotechnology

The continuing coverage of the risks and benefits of agricultural biotechnology in the media have vigorously put science and the scientist in the public arena, requiring scientists to engage in public discourse they are frequently not well equipped for. It would be reasonable to expect some convergence in the discourse on biotechnology, but instead we see increasing divergence, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia, where public opinion about biotechnology suspicion of GMOs and institutional regulatory remains strong. Lack of communication and communication skills between the actors in this debate are a hurdle