The effect of frames on engagement with quantum technology

EPJ Quantum Technology, vol. 13

Abstract

Engaging a larger, non-specialist audience with quantum technology poses challenges as the theory underlying quantum technology is very different to what we experience in our everyday lives. Quantum technology is predicted to have a significant impact on society once it matures. This study ( $n = 637$ adults representative of the Dutch population) examined the effect of different frames on engagement – specifically, information seeking, internal efficacy, general interest and perceived knowledge – with quantum technology. The different frames were: enigmatic, explaining quantum physics, benefit, risk and balanced. Results indicated that framing quantum as enigmatic does not affect engagement, while explaining quantum physics positively influences general interest. Furthermore, emphasising a benefit of quantum technology increases participants’ internal efficacy, whereas highlighting both a benefit and a risk of quantum technology decreases perceived knowledge. Based on these findings, we offer practical advice for science communicators in the field and suggest further research.

Authors 5

1. Aletta Lucia Meinsma Aachen Department of Science Communication & Society Faculty of Science, Leiden University Leiden Institute of Physics (LION)

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Science Communication & Society, Faculty of Science, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands

   Leiden Institute of Physics, Faculty of Science, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands

2. Casper Johannes Albers

   University of Groningen

   Affiliation as printed

   Heymans Institute for Psychological Research, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands

3. Pieter E. Vermaas

   Delft University of Technology

   Affiliation as printed

   Philosophy Department, School of Technology, Policy & Management, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands

4. Ionica Smeets Aachen Department of Science Communication & Society Faculty of Science, Leiden University

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Science Communication & Society, Faculty of Science, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands

5. Julia Cramer corresponding Aachen Department of Science Communication & Society Faculty of Science, Leiden University Leiden Institute of Physics (LION)

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Science Communication & Society, Faculty of Science, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands

   Leiden Institute of Physics, Faculty of Science, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands