Today’s complex problems require a clear-sighted understanding of their root causes and smart, evidence-based solutions. To meet this need, Knology was created to use transdisciplinary research that draws on multiple perspectives to untangle problems. This year, we dug in and delivered on this promise by studying increasingly urgent social issues, from confidence in the news media, to institutions’ approaches to identity, to the politics and potential for using statistics.

The Numbers in the News Initiative

How do audiences and journalists understand and use statistics? With funding from the National Science Foundation, we're working with the PBS NewsHour to study how people think about numbers in news stories, and whether different ways of reporting on numbers improve public understanding of statistics. This research will give us insight into trustworthiness of the news and what this means for critical issues like public health. Read about Numbers in the News >>

Emerging Research on Identity & Museums

With funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, we led a project called Emerging Research on Identity & Museums. Our team examined graduate-level research to reveal how museums are addressing identity across the U.S. We also led the first-ever Curator-Knology Writing Scholars Workshop, a professional development program for emerging museum professionals. This project points to opportunities for expanding on identity for museum practice and publishing alike. Read about Identity & Museums >>

Who Counts? The Politics of COVID-19 Data

Statistics are often used to demonstrate authority and objectivity. But studies have shown that using numbers always involves subjectivity. When politicians use statistics, there are very real consequences. Researcher Jena Barchas-Lichtenstein makes the case for new investigations of how numbers speak, and for whom. Read about the Politics of COVID-19 Data >>

Photo credit: Nick Hillier on Unsplash