Conceptual diagrams A tool for effec5ve science communica5on
Alexandra Fries
October 2013
con·∙cept /ˈkänsept/ Noun: Something conceived in the mind
(Webster’s 3rd Dic>onary, 1986)
di·∙a·∙gram /ˈdīəˌgram/ Noun: A drawing that shows rela>ons
(Webster’s 3rd Dic>onary, 1986)
conceptual diagram A diagram using symbols that depicts the essen>al aMributes of a system
What are conceptual diagrams?
Conceptual diagrams provide synthesis, visualiza5on, and context
Priorities & environmental
values
Credibility & support
Commitment & resources
Community Science
Current understanding
Diagrams can integrate and synthesize scien5fic data
Diagrams can integrate and synthesize scien5fic data
Good conceptual diagrams synthesize and present informa5on clearly
• Help to clarify thinking
• Aid communica>on
• Can iden>fy data gaps, management priori>es, or key features and threats
What makes conceptual diagrams so effec5ve?
Conceptual diagrams can illustrate complex processes
Conceptual diagrams can describe processes at different scales
cen>meters meters
Conceptual diagrams can communicate ecosystem rela5onships
Cave pain>ng
Symbols depict unequivocal messages
Darwin’s diagram
• Symbols are used and iden>fied all over the world: mathema>cs , weather , music , religion , corporate branding , signage , and organiza>ons .
Symbols are language independent and universal
• Symbols can represent something tangible
• Symbols can represent something invisible or intangible
IAN’s symbol libraries are a key tool for scien5sts and managers
Size, shape, color, and posi5on of symbols conveys informa5on
• Map legend (below) versus conceptual diagram legend
Symbols can be explained in a legend
Diagrams are an interface between scien5sts, government, and the community
Diagrams can be produced in real 5me to create a shared vision
Diagrams can be produced in real 5me to synthesize key messages
Diagrams can be produced in real 5me to synthesize key messages
How can conceptual diagrams be used? Research Synthesis
Monitoring Management
Conceptual diagrams can be used in graphs
Include close-‐ups to see greater detail
Can be incorporated into photographs
Can show cumula5ve impacts
Wrap up and review
• You can quickly and effec>vely sketch complex scien>fic concepts • No ar>s>c talent is needed – click and drag our symbols • DraZ and revise… and revise some more • Obtain stakeholder input and feedback
Top Related