The Mutual Learning Exercise (MLE) in Science Communication in Research & Innovation (R&I), inspired by the European Commission’s PSF-MLEs (Policy Support Facility – Mutual Learning Exercises), is organised by the COALESCE project, which is establishing the European Competence Centre for Science Communication, with the collaboration of the Inspiring ERA project for one of the priority topics*.  In this MLE 9 national governments, funders and research performing organisations (RPOs) representatives, will be paired with science communication research/practice representatives from the COALESCE Hubs of the same countries.

The goal of MLEs is to foster national support for science communication by enabling the joint exploration of specific research and innovation policy challenges and opportunities.

It does so by facilitating the exchange of knowledge, success stories, experiences, and barriers in advancing effective and trustworthy science communication – and by supporting preparedness for future crises in which science plays a vital role.

This participatory and cooperative process will equip representatives from the European Research Area member states and beyond with the skills, tools, and opportunities for synergies needed to enhance science communication in national R&I policies.

This PSF-inspired MLE builds on the results of previous and ongoing Mutual Learning Exercises on Citizen Science, Public Engagement, EU Missions, and Bridging the Gap Between Science and Policy.

MLE Priority Topics

1. Overview of the science communication landscape in national governance structures

2. Social perception of science, trust, and citizen engagement

3. Rapid mobilisation of science communication and responses to misinformation in times of crisis

4. Building skills and competences – toward a science communication competence framework

MLE Expected Results

• Enhance R&I systems with dedicated and integrated science communication funding

• Consolidate knowledge to improve science communication practices across all R&I actors

• Promote the mainstreaming of high-quality science communication

• Increase recognition and public support for science communication

• Improve access to and rapid mobilisation of trustworthy science communication

• Establish a science communication competence framework across EU member states and beyond