Modified Mental Models to Identify the Public's Concerns on New Technical Topics

• In Event: Emerging Scholars Lightning Round: Graduate Student Research: Contemporary Issues in US Politics: Identities, Technology, and Economic Policy

Abstract

As the United States invests in hydrogen as a key energy carrier, understanding public perception and regional dynamics becomes crucial, especially in the context of developing hydrogen hubs. Using this as motivation, a case study was developed which focused on the tri-state region of Southwestern Pennsylvania, exploring the potential challenges and opportunities associated with the establishment of a hydrogen hub. The study employed a modified mental models approach, conducting eight participatory seminars over five months in the greater Pittsburgh region. Through these sessions, the research investigates public reactions, identifies advantages, disadvantages, and uncertainties associated with hydrogen and a hypothetical hydrogen hub.
This paper aligns with the 2024 APSA Annual Conference theme, "Democracy: Retrenchment, Renovation, & Reimagination." It delves into the intersection of science, technology, and environmental politics by exploring how democratic decision-making and accountability unfold in the context of emerging energy technologies. The case study provides insights into reimagining and strengthening democracy within the governance of innovative technical projects, contributing to the broader discourse on the conference theme.
This research offers an examination of public perceptions and regional dynamics in the development of hydrogen hubs, contributing to the broader conversation on the intersection of democratic decision-making and emerging technologies. The findings present actionable insights for policymakers and industry leaders seeking to navigate the democratic challenges associated with advancing innovative energy solutions.
In my proposed presentation, I will discuss the method used and the results produced through this case study. I will provide insight into how the mental models method was adapted to cover a technical topic that the public knew little about prior to participating, and I will share the strategies employed as a result of feedback from pilot seminars and interviews. I will also present the overview of results, which highlight the need for cohesive public communication strategies on technical topics, while emphasizing the role of regional differences in shaping these communication strategies.

Authors

• Ioana Iacob, Carnegie Mellon University

• M. Morgan, Carnegie Mellon University