Communicating scientific uncertainties

Abstract. Communicating a message of scientific uncertainty to general audience is difficult because laypeople usually lack the conceptual tools understand (e.g., quantification methods). In addition, uncertainties can lead mistrust and be misused prevent or delay radioactive waste management. On proposed poster, we report results an experimental study (N=177) that investigated preferences for trust in different visualizations simulation tested modes communication (verbal, numerical, visual/graphical). The participants processed three parts, namely (1) variation form presentation result, (2) sender/source result numerical format, (3) direct comparison two representations (deterministic probabilistic). Besides socio-demographics, used items check potential impact numeracy verbal skills, need cognition concept, questions on science general, as well acceptance deep-ground repository. dependent variable each part was degree validity information. For example see Fig. 1. Clear influences non-dependent variables are only evident limited extent. Women rate their abilities less highly than men do. There no difference skills. latter also not explanatory, while ability relevant choice probabilistic variant corresponding rating Experiment 3. most striking attitude towards deep geological repository high-level nuclear (HLW; acceptance) decisive parameter all conditions. oral will focus another challenge communication, unquantifiable model uncertainties. repository, these may arise from heterogeneity host rock. One undetected fault parallel drift axis clayey rocks. At Konrad site, anchor failure infrastructure resulted such fault. To deal with this kind uncertainty, certain flexibility needed react events. talk should initiate discussion importance communicating program.