Found a fossil: improving awareness, engagement, and communication strategies for heritage discoveries

Sally Hurst*, Matthew Kosnik, Linda Evans, Glenn A. Brock

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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Abstract

Fossils and Indigenous artefacts are often found by members of the general public. To gauge Australian awareness of heritage laws and willingness to report finds, the Found a Fossil project conducted a survey to understand barriers to reporting heritage material. Results showed enthusiasm to report but confusion over appropriate authorities to contact, lack of transparency by government, and poorly communicated legislation created barriers to heritage reporting. This project represents the first attempt to quantify reporting behaviours of Indigenous artefacts and fossils in Australia and recommends improvements for reporting, protection and communication of Australian heritage items and their historical narratives.
Original languageEnglish
Article numberA03
Pages (from-to)1-22
Number of pages22
JournalJournal of Science Communication
Volume22
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 20 Nov 2023

Bibliographical note

Copyright the Author(s) 2023. Version archived for private and non-commercial use with the permission of the author/s and according to publisher conditions. For further rights please contact the publisher.

Keywords

  • Public engagement with science and technology
  • Public perception of science and technology
  • Science and policy-making

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