Proposta de plano de divulgação científica para a Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte

Abstract

Science plays an essential role in the advancement of society, driving questions and discoveries that promote human evolution. In Brazil, universities are the main centers of scientific production and play a key role in the dissemination of knowledge, especially through science communication. However, this process still has deficiencies due to the predominance of scientific dissemination models based on technical and academic language, which limit access and understanding by the general public. In this context, this study aimed to identify challenges and opportunities to strengthen science communication in universities, focusing on the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN). The research consisted of a diagnosis of science communication at the institution. Data collection was carried out through a questionnaire applied to researchers at UFRN, including undergraduate research students, graduate students product of this study was the development of a Science Communication Plan aligned with the g This is an empirical study, descriptive in nature, with a qualitative and quantitative approach. The analyses were conducted using Microsoft Excel and Iramuteq software. The results revealed both challenges and opportunities. Among the main obstacles, the lack of understanding of the concepts of science communication and public engagement, the absence of structured institutional support, language difficulties, and barriers in public interaction stand out. On the other hand, strategic opportunities emerged, such as the use of social media, the organization of scientific events, and partnerships with the media. Based on these findings, the proposed plan aims to institutionalize science communication at UFRN, promoting democratic access to knowledge and strengthening the interaction between the university and society.