Evidencing the efficacy of science blogging as a tool for science communication

Stephens, Richard

Abstract

Background: The underlying evidence for sci-comms efficacy remains underdeveloped. Method: This experiment compared ratings of message quality, reading ease, jargon, formal style, engagement, enjoyment, emotion, retention of information, trust in science, and psychological flow for science blogs vs. study abstracts. Results: Findings confirmed increased message quality, reading ease, engagement, enjoyment and flow, also reduced perception of jargon for blogs. Information retention and trust in science showed null effects. Flow mediated blog format effects on engagement and enjoyment. Conclusions: Data confirm tangible user benefits of science blogs over study abstracts. Further research should aim to confirm the explanatory role of flow.

Citation

Stephens, R. Evidencing the efficacy of science blogging as a tool for science communication

• Working Paper Type: Preprint
• Deposit Date: Jul 18, 2025
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.31234/osf.io/ykez5
• Public URL: https://keele-repository.worktribe.com/output/1021559
• Publisher URL: https://osf.io/preprints/psyarxiv/ykez5_v1