Scientists' motivation to communicate science and technology to the public: surveying participants at the Madrid Science Fair

This paper investigates what motivates scientists to communicate science andtechnology in a science event involving a direct relationship and interaction withthe public. A structured questionnaire survey was administered through face-to-faceinterviews to 167 research practitioners (researchers, technicians, support staffand fellows) at the Spanish Council for Scientific Research (CSIC) who participatedin the Madrid Science Fair in the years 2001 to 2004. The motivations of members ineach professional category are discussed. The most important motivations have to dowith the desire to increase the public's interest in and enthusiasm for science, thepublic's scientific culture, and public awareness and appreciation of science andscientists. Senior researchers were also highly motivated by a sense of duty.Personal satisfaction and enjoyment were important motivations for youngerscientists. This research will help to understand the mechanisms of scientists'motivation, and thus foster and encourage greater and better participation in eventsof this kind