Whether it’s a global climate change story, a debate over childhood vaccines or an investigation of the deadly synthetic drug nitazene, Science news puts scientific information at the center of many public policy issues that shape our daily lives. Slightly more than a third of Americans get science news at least a few times a week, and about a quarter actively seek it out. These “active science news consumers” are different from the general population in several ways: They follow more kinds of science news sources, are more likely to talk about science with friends and family members, and are more interested in following science on social media than people who don’t seek out this type of news.
These active science news consumers also are more likely than others to have been to a science museum or other informal learning venue in the past year, to have a hobby that involves a scientific subject and to participate in citizen science research projects. They are more likely than other Americans to say they watch entertainment programming built around science, medicine or technology, such as crime shows and medical reality series. And they are more likely to say they trust most specialty sources – like documentaries, science magazines and science and technology museums – to get the facts about science right most of the time.
Since its launch in 2003, Science News Explores (formerly Science News for Kids) has provided topical stories on current events in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) to children ages 9 and up, their parents and educators. Its coverage of scientific discoveries and topics is informed by top experts in their fields. The site is free of charge and features daily news online, as well as a weekly print magazine. Stories also include areadability scores and Next Generation Science Standards codes to help teachers match news with classroom concepts.