Journal of Technical Writing and Communication Jul 2009

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
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Open Access
Closed
Topics
qualitative research public rhetoric
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Citation Context

Cited by in this index (1)

  1. Stephens et al. (2019)
    A Framework for User Agency during Development of Interactive Risk Visualizatio…
    Technical Communication Quarterly

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CrossRef global citation count: 4 View in citation network → Build reading path →

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