Journal of Science Communication

My first paper was published in November 2023 as an open-source paper (so anyone can read it!) in the Journal of Science Communication! This journal is peer-reviewed, meaning that other scientists or communications professionals in the field have to read and critique the paper, making sure all of the research, the methods, and the results, are valid before it is published and entered into the scientific/academic record.

The research in this paper explores the results from the Found a Fossil project, an Australia-wide survey conducted in 2022 with over 1300 participants, asking questions like ‘what would you do or who would you tell if you ever discovered a fossil or Indigenous artefact?’

Read the paper here!

Found a fossil: improving awareness, engagement, and communication strategies for heritage discoveries

Sally Hurst, Matthew Kosnik, Linda Evans & Glenn A. Brock

Abstract:

Fossils and Indigenous artefacts are often found by members of the general public. To gauge Australian awareness of heritage laws and willingness to report finds, the Found a Fossil project conducted a survey to understand barriers to reporting heritage material. Results showed enthusiasm to report but confusion over appropriate authorities to contact, lack of transparency by government, and poorly communicated legislation created barriers to heritage reporting. This project represents the first attempt to quantify reporting behaviours of Indigenous artefacts and fossils in Australia and recommends improvements for reporting, protection and communication of Australian heritage items and their historical narratives…Read more.