Research groups at the Federal University of Ceará: an analysis of the use of digital platforms to disseminate science.

Abstract

Media and information literacy is considered a strategic topic in the contemporary context, as it contributes significantly to developing skills related to the critical, ethical, and effective use of information, both in traditional and digital environments. In this sense, this paper presents an excerpt from a broader ongoing study focused on investigating and understanding the relationship between this competency and scientific dissemination activities carried out through digital platforms. The overall objective of the study is to identify how research groups at the Federal University of Ceará use these platforms to disseminate science and establish communication channels with society. The proposal seeks to understand how these groups have positioned themselves in response to the demands for more open, accessible, and socially engaged science. Methodologically, this is an applied study with a qualitative and quantitative approach and a descriptive and exploratory design. The results reveal that the respondent groups primarily use institutional websites as a means of scientific dissemination and interaction with the general public. Furthermore, they recognize digital platforms as an important channel for connecting science and society. Challenges to maintaining effective communication with society through these tools were also identified. The conclusion is that it is essential for educational and research institutions to invest in improving the scientific dissemination processes developed by research groups. These groups, in turn, need to enhance their information and media skills, with a specific focus on scientific dissemination.