Lost opportunities? Foreign researchers and public engagement in Norway
Norwegian universities are increasingly international. Researchers from many countries and linguistic backgrounds contribute to UiB’s research – but do they have the same opportunities to communicate their research and take part in the Norwegian public sphere?
For researchers who do not have Norwegian as their first language, language can be a barrier. But what about cultural codes and unwritten rules? How important is it to master not only the language, but also the ways of communicating that are considered appropriate in the Norwegian public debate?
Are we missing valuable voices and perspectives when international researchers find it difficult to engage with the Norwegian public? Why do Norwegian media often turn to Norwegian-speaking researchers as sources? And what can universities do to make public outreach more accessible?
In this Formidlingsforum / Research Communication Forum, we will discuss:
- How can we create more space for diverse researcher voices in the Norwegian public sphere?
- What barriers do researchers who do not have Norwegian as their first language encounter?
- How do language, accents and cultural codes influence who gets to participate as an expert and source of knowledge?
- What can universities do through language training and communication support?
Contributors:
Laura Saetveit Miles, Martino Marisaldi and Anna-Luise Schönheit, University of Bergen. Vice-Rector Kristoffer C. Vogt will facilitate the event.
The event will be held in English, but questions from the audience may be asked in Norwegian. Waffles/scones and coffee will be served.
Come and join the conversation – and bring your own experiences, questions and disagreements. We warmly welcome you to Tårnsalen!