Risk Communication, Space, and Findability in the Public Sphere: A Case Study of a Physical and Online Information Center

Ed Nagelhout University of Nevada, Las Vegas ; Julie Staggers University of Nevada, Las Vegas ; Denise Tillery University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Abstract

This article uses theories of space and findability to analyze a public information center as an example of multi-modal risk communication. The Yucca Mountain Information Center is an informational space created by the Department of Energy to inform the public about the proposed nuclear waste repository planned for Yucca Mountain, Nevada. As a public space, the Center uses fact sheets, posters, and three-dimensional displays to make arguments about the storage of nuclear waste; we argue that the physical space, text, displays, and online space are all elements of risk communication. We offer a new way to read these elements of risk communication and suggest potential opportunities for public agency.

Journal
Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Published
2009-07-01
DOI
10.2190/tw.39.3.b
CompPile
Search in CompPile ↗
Open Access
Closed
Topics
Export

Citation Context

Cited by in this index (1)

  1. Technical Communication Quarterly

References (20) · 6 in this index

  1. IEEE Transactions on Professional Communication
  2. Technical Communication Quarterly
  3. Journal of Business and Technical Communication
  4. 10.1353/con.2004.0022
  5. Green Culture: Environmental Rhetoric in Contemporary America
Show all 20 →
  1. Green Culture: Environmental Rhetoric in Contemporary America
  2. Journal of Business and Technical Communication
  3. Design of Urban Space: An Inquiry into a Socio-Spatial Process
  4. Architecture in Space: How to Look at Architecture
  5. Public Places—Urban Spaces: The Dimensions of Urban Design
  6. Prospect
  7. Ambient Findability: What We Find Changes Who We Become
  8. Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management, Yucca Mountain Repository, <http://www.ocrwm.doe.gov/ym_repo…
  9. 10.1002/asi.20024
  10. Assessment in Technical and Professional Communication
  11. Contrastive Rhetoric: Reaching to Intercultural Rhetoric
  12. IEEE Transactions on Professional Communication
  13. Content Management: Bridging the Gap between Theory and Practice
  14. IEEE Transactions on Professional Communication
  15. Culture Shock and the Practice of Profession: Training the Next Wave in Rhetoric and Comp…