Casting A Wider Net: Using Social Media To Improve Scientific Research, Communication and Outreach

In a world where twitter and Facebook are rapidly replacing newspapers and magazines, the use of social media for outreach by scientists is imperative if we want to affect how the public views and understands science. Not only are they the communication platforms of the future, they hold the potential to revolutionize how we do science in the first place. Despite the immense potential benefits, many scientists are hesitant to use new media technologies in their professional life. Using exciting examples from practicing scientists, this presentation will reveal the endless possibilities of social media and how fisheries scientists can use these tools to transform their current research and outreach programs.