Perceptions and challenges of scientific dissemination at the university: an analysis from academic researchers

Abstract

Scientific dissemination constitutes a fundamental axis in the relationship between science and society, enabling academic knowledge to be brought closer to diverse audiences in an accessible and understandable way. However, its effective practice within the main research-producing centers in Spain largely depends on the perception and attitudes of their staff toward this work, as well as on the institutional approach and recognition it is given. This study analyzes the perception of scientific outreach at the University of Valladolid (UVa) through a questionnaire administered to 312 researchers at different career stages. The results show that, although the majority of staff value outreach as an important activity for both society and the university—over 95%—there is a gap between this positive assessment and actual participation in outreach activities. Only 26% engage in outreach frequently, with the main barriers being lack of time, limited academic recognition, and weak institutional support. Additionally, there is a low level of awareness and involvement with UVadivulga, the university’s Scientific Culture and Innovation Unit (UCC+i), reinforcing the hypothesis that the absence of a unified outreach plan hinders its coordination and effectiveness.