SCIENTIFICALLY ACCURATE VISUALIZATIONS AS TOOL OF COMMUNICATING TO A WIDER DEMOGRAPHIC IN A DIGITAL AGE

This study was undertaken to demonstrate the use of graphics, illustrations, and visualizations of geologic information as the best method of bridging the gap between advanced scientific concepts and public understanding. Visualizations provide consolidated representations of complex ideas along with offering alternative methods of pattern recognition in large sets of data. Scientifically based imagery of processes strongly diminish the language-disconnect between academics and the general public and have the ability to cross international language barriers and act as a singular communicative tool. The reception of information or ideas is based on the ability of the author to captivate and transmit information to the target audience. The ever quickening pace of society demands condensed information that can be viewed and understood in a shorter amount of time. The integration of the fundamental concepts of artistic design in scientific presentations can dramatically influence the perception of the research. Presenting visual media as the central theme of a presentation enables people from a diverse range of backgrounds to have a familiar element that describes the parameters, variables, scope, intention, and outcome of the research or concept. The elements of design such as space, color, texture, placement, size, symmetry, balance and relationally are used as methods of communicating aspects of the research conducted. Design of the imagery used to represent the data should mirror the scope, accuracy, and precision of the project. Within the illustration should be space to insert sequential, topical information when needed, in addition to describing the results of the investigation. A sequentially built visual representation of science captivates and transmits information more rapidly and accurately than traditional linear text proving itself an essential component in almost all geologic research areas in this age of advanced technology.