Study finds a lower accuracy and higher error rate for science news coverage than for earlier studies of regular news coverage. (RB)

Surveyed the attitudes of scientists toward the public dissemination of scientific information. Examined possible constraints relative to training and reward systems. Found general agreement that, except for research funding, little is to be gained within science by engaging in public dissemination of information. (PD)

Describes a method for determining the accuracy of science news coverage. (RB)

Indicates that the academic and professional training patterns of science writers have changed somewhat in the last decade but that changes center primarily around the extent to which science writers have earned academic degrees and engaged in graduate study. (RB)

Reports the results of a survey of 122 science journalists and 110 scientists regarding their attitudes toward science news coverage; notes that the attitudes of the two groups were remarkably similar. (GT)

Several potential "problem areas" in the science news coverage process were identified through analysis of comments written by 193 scientists who were asked to assess the accuracy of science news stories in which they were cited as the major source. The analysis led to a number of recommendations for improving the objective reporting of…