Guidance & Templates for Researchers
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Communicating research may seem daunting, labour intensive and somewhat challenging at times, particularly if the research is complex, variable and likely to span a number of years. It can be difficult to identify the key concepts and anticipated impact of the research, which are key to effectively communicating to various interested parties.
However, planning for and engaging with communication for the research lifecycle has many benefits:
Reputation
Colleagues, peers, students and the wider education community being well informed of research activities and outcomes enhances academic standing and future research opportunities.
Public engagement with non-academic communities can assist with the ‘real world impact’ of research. It can garner support for the research aims and anticipated outcomes and it can also widen the pool of potential participants.
Relationships
Interested parties having knowledge and understanding of research undertakings helps expand networks and collaboration potentials. It may also open doors to an array of opportunities such as guest speaking, panel roles and advisory appointments.
Influence
Effectively communicating research can enable policy makers and key influential figures to be reached and engaged, providing opportunity to shape and influence policies.
Visibility
Sharing research aims, objectives, methods, intended outcomes and the potential for impact beyond academia can help ‘get the message out there’. It can support the research culture within the department, faculty or wider institution and it helps provide evidence for external scrutiny.
Funding
Being able to successfully convey a research project can help secure funding as it enables those awarding the funding to clearly understand the research and potential impact. Communication for the entirety of the research alongside effective dissemination can also support future funding opportunities.
Find out more in the below guidance document.
