A free, practical worksheet for scientists, researchers, students, and evidence champions who want to make a difference but aren’t quite sure where to start.
Getting involved in science advocacy can feel overwhelming. It can seem like countless issues could use more scientific expertise, stronger evidence, and informed public engagement. But
The goal of Finding Your Role in Science Advocacy is to help you identify where your interests, skills, expertise, values, and capacity can meet a real-world need. There is no “perfect” path. Getting started means finding a realistic first step into advocacy that feels authentic and meaningful to you.
Through guided reflection and hands-on exercises, the worksheet will help you explore:
- the issues you care most about;
- the skills and strengths you can bring to advocacy;
- where your expertise could be useful;
- who you are trying to reach and influence;
- the role you want to play;
- how much time and energy you realistically have to give;
- your science advocacy “sweet spot”; and
- the first steps toward a concrete advocacy goal and action plan.
The first step is figuring out what works for you. You don’t need to be a political expert, a public speaker, or a full-time advocate to have an impact. There are many ways to contribute.
Use it on your own or bring it into your community!
You can use this worksheet independently, with a research team or student group, or as a companion to Evidence for Democracy’s science policy and advocacy training.
Want to go deeper? E4D offers customizable workshops for universities, research institutes, professional societies, conferences, and other organizations.
Interested in bringing E4D training to your community?
Check out our Training page or contact us at info@evidencefordemocracy.ca for more information or a personalized quote.