What are the best ways to communicate geological data across cultures and languages?

Geological data is essential for many fields and projects, such as engineering, mining, environmental management, and disaster prevention. However, communicating this data effectively across different cultures and languages can be challenging. Here are some best practices to help you overcome these barriers and share your geological insights with diverse audiences.

1 Use common standards

One of the first steps to communicate geological data across cultures and languages is to use common standards and formats that are widely recognized and accepted in the geoscience community. For example, you can use the International System of Units (SI) for measurements, the International Chronostratigraphic Chart for geological time scales, and the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) for terminology and classification. These standards can help you avoid confusion and ambiguity, and ensure consistency and accuracy in your data.

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Nyasha Kayeruza

Mining Geologist| Exploration Geologist| Environmental Scientist| Hydrogeologist| Geology Graduate Trainee| Enhancing Exploration, Mining, and Water Resource Management with Geological Insights
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Using common standards is crucial, as it helps everyone understand what is being said despite their language. While other illustrations are good but sometimes they need the professional presenting the data while common standards can be interpreted without the presenter being present. In mapping for example, the common standards for strike and dip helps other to effectively interpret the symbols without needing an explanation.

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2 Use visual aids

Another effective way to communicate geological data across cultures and languages is to use visual aids, such as maps, diagrams, graphs, photos, and videos. Visual aids can help you illustrate complex concepts, show spatial and temporal relationships, and highlight key features and patterns in your data. However, you should also be mindful of the cultural and linguistic implications of your visual aids. For example, you should use colors, symbols, and labels that are appropriate and understandable for your target audience, and avoid using jargon, slang, or idioms that may not translate well.

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Gerardo G.

Basin Researcher | Geoscientist
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Visual aids and models helped me conveying the message while I was working with geoscientists/engineers that did not speak English. Having a cartoon or design of what you’re trying to explain and then asking in their language what do they call, say a normal fault, so they help you find the correct word helps. Don’t try googling it as sometimes it will make you think people will understand. This is applicable to Latin America, where they all speak Spanish but the slang and daily words change across countries.

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3 Use plain language

A third best practice to communicate geological data across cultures and languages is to use plain language, which means using clear, simple, and concise words and sentences that are easy to read and comprehend. Plain language can help you avoid technical terms, acronyms, and abbreviations that may not be familiar or relevant to your audience, and explain them if necessary. Plain language can also help you avoid passive voice, complex sentence structures, and long paragraphs that may obscure your main points and make your data harder to follow.

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Leon Wisnumurti

Geology Assistant Manager | 7+ years experience in Mine Planning, Open-Pit Coal Mining, Mining Engineering, Geological Engineering, GIS
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Plain language can be at least in 2 forms: 1. Common word from daily activities that represents the same geological movements, shapes/forms, phenomenons, structures, etc. 2. Preserving the geological term and attach simple analogies from daily life These forms of word or the combination will help you to make the audience understand your presentation

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4 Use feedback

A fourth best practice to communicate geological data across cultures and languages is to use feedback, which means seeking and giving input and suggestions to improve your communication. Feedback can help you check your understanding, clarify your message, and address any gaps or errors in your data. You can use feedback from various sources, such as your peers, supervisors, clients, or stakeholders, and use different methods, such as surveys, interviews, reviews, or tests. Feedback can also help you build rapport, trust, and collaboration with your audience.

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5 Use translation

A fifth best practice to communicate geological data across cultures and languages is to use translation, which means converting your data from one language to another. Translation can help you reach a wider and more diverse audience, and increase the accessibility and usability of your data. However, translation can also pose some challenges, such as accuracy, consistency, and quality. Therefore, you should use professional translators who have expertise in both geology and the target language, and use tools and resources that are reliable and up-to-date.

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Gerardo G.

Basin Researcher | Geoscientist
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Google now I’d say is outdated. I wonder if AI will now help with this, specially in geosciences where words are not easily translated via Google.

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6 Use adaptation

A sixth best practice to communicate geological data across cultures and languages is to use adaptation, which means adjusting your data to suit the specific needs, preferences, and expectations of your audience. Adaptation can help you tailor your data to the cultural and linguistic context, and enhance the relevance and impact of your data. However, adaptation can also require some trade-offs, such as simplification, modification, or omission of some aspects of your data. Therefore, you should use adaptation carefully and respectfully, and avoid compromising the integrity and validity of your data.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are the best ways to communicate geological data across cultures and languages?

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1 Use common standards

2 Use visual aids

3 Use plain language

4 Use feedback

5 Use translation

6 Use adaptation

7 Here’s what else to consider

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