At Knology, we produce social science research that is practical. We want leaders in government, business, non-profits, and philanthropy to have actionable research that can make the difference in their programs. To accomplish this goal, we publish open-access, approachable stories to guide decision-making. We are also committed to research transparency through our archives, National Science Digital Library, and other public databases. This year, our work helped shape science learning, news media, and libraries.

Building the Case for Trust and STEM Learning in Zoos & Aquariums

With funding from the National Science Foundation, Knology and partners studied the STEM learning ecology and where zoos and aquariums fit into the landscape. We won an award in the 2020 STEM for All Video Showcase for a 3-minute film about our findings. Watch the Video >> We also explored the criteria people use when deciding to trust science learning institutions, like zoos and aquariums, science centers, and more. This new study, published in Zoo Biology, explains select segments of the public and how organizations can build trust with each group. Read the Criteria for Trust Study >>

News Behavior & COVID-19 Prevention

Where do people get information about the pandemic? Do they follow guidelines from health professionals? What about institutions? Knology researchers surveyed the US public to better understand attitudes towards COVID-19 and infection prevention behaviors. This National Science Foundation-funded research starts to uncover the paths that people follow from news stories to health and safety habits. Read about News Behavior & COVID-19 >>

A New Framework for Public Programs in Libraries & Identifying the Skills Needed for this Work

In collaboration with the American Library Association and thousands of library workers across the country, we developed a new framework that captures the types of public programs in libraries. This consensus-driven framework was funded in part by the Institute for Museum and Library Services. The project is an important step toward understanding the impact of public programs -- a key service of libraries across the US. Read about the New Framework for Public Programs >> We also studied new ways to understand the unique set of skills needed by library public program professionals. The value? Universities and training programs can prepare professionals for this critical work. Read about the Skills & Competencies Study >>

Photo credit: Steven Lelham