ABSTRACT
Demands for science communication activities from various sectors are increasing worldwide, and progress in science communication research is becoming more visible than ever before. Also visible is a kind of evolution of the emphasis of science communication, from public understanding of science to public engagement with science, and beyond. There has also been a recent overwhelming rush of monographs on science communication with various “flavors” (e.g. Bauer & Bucchi, 2007; Bennett & Jennings, 2011; Cheng et al., 2008; Kahlor & Stout, 2010; Russell, 2010). However, it is difficult to grasp the overall picture of science communication because such prominence has been achieved by many different stakeholders and initiatives, including national and regional governments, universities, museums and science centers, media, citizen groups, non-profit organizations and non-government organizations, as well as attentive individuals. This has not occurred systematically, but rather autonomously and mutually independently.
