Raising your voice: Using essay techniques in science writing

In today's digital media landscape, journalists and scientists alike are increasingly called upon to write personal essays, columns, and blogs — in short, to tell science stories using the personal voice of the essay form.

This panel explores how traditional science reporting can strengthen and be strengthened by the 400-year-old tradition of essay writing. We will cover what science essays are and how they differ from straight reported news and narrative features, both stylistically and in structure and approach. Using published examples, our panel of expert science essayists and editors will discuss how reporting and analysis are woven into essays, and how journalists can incorporate essay techniques into stories of all kinds. And our panel will grapple with the sticky ethical issues that can arise when journalism and essay-writing collide.

Journalists and scientists are increasingly encountering topics that require going beyond standard reporting of facts and analysis. From gun control to environmental sustainability, we as individuals and as professionals are grappling with issues that are reshaping our world and our society. The need and hunger for compelling, accurate writing that resonates with readers — and shows them how science directly affects their lives — has never been greater, and the essay form is a powerful way for writers to meet that need.

Social media hashtag: #ScienceEssays