I almost didn't post because I am one of the "too uncomfortable to posts", but realised we're all grown ups here, and we won't get to the bottom of the issue unless we're open, and honest.
I have a BSc(Hons), and am not a silly kid, but gosh, it can get intimidating in here. I havent been at a lab bench for years, and have instead been working in an entirely different field (where I like to imagine I'm a bit of a legend in my own lunchbox
) As others have mentioned, there seem to be only a handful of voices which crop up. I have a few suggestions, make of them what you will - and let's be honest, I'm just echoing those who have gone before me.
Perhaps it would be a little less intimidating if we kept the focus on Amateur Science (rather than PostGrad level dissertations). This is supposed to be fun, right?
Maybe we all need to get to know each other a little better, and once we understand our backgrounds, we can tailor our posts accordingly? There are so many lovely folks that I've had the pleasure to interact with, who, in my estimations, have brains the size of planets. In spite of this, they've taken the time to kindly, and gently, help me break down difficult concepts in order to glean a thorough understanding of the issues at hand. To me, this speaks of an intellect sophisticated enough to convey a complex concept to someone who is essentially a layperson. It's one thing to be able to regurgitate information ad infinitum, but to be able to synthesise and communicate it in a meaningful way - THAT's the true skill.
One of the best qualities of IIS and the amateur astronomy community in general is their friendliness, and openness to share information with newbies. Because of this, I'm not afraid to ask people questions, because I'm not afraid that they're going to judge or think I'm silly. Perhaps we've lost sight of our purpose, a little?
Maybe a bit of the good ol' golden rule - do unto others (with patience, kindness, respect, Lovejoy, etc) might see more people in here having a bash. Gets a bit boring if it's just one or two, no matter how many big words are involved
Here's looking forward to a more inclusive General Science forum?
Quote:
Originally Posted by jjjnettie
Speaking for myself.
I find the "vigorous debates" to be intimidating.
And quite frankly I am too scared to contribute to any of the science threads, knowing the sorts of comments that may be directed at me if I do.
I don't like feeling this way, it's horrible.
I find no joy or enlightenment in the Science forum.
I'm pretty sure the other women on the forum feel much the same way.
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