Co-creation in Science Communication

Models of science communication now involve a more complete range of communication, including diffusion, knowledge sharing, dialogue, and co-creation. There are occasions where Western science communicators support best by removing ourselves from the equation altogether. In New Zealand, there is a saying, ‘by Māori, for Māori’. Imbalance of power and in some cases previous unethical treatment has led to an understandable mistrust of researchers and a reluctance to engage in partnership. For productive co-creation of communication resources, time must be taken to build relationships and trust. Sometimes the best way for a Western science communicator to be an ally and support the work of a minority group is to stay out of the way.