Resources for Journalists

What is Scientific Uncertainty?

In everyday language, “uncertainty” means not knowing. In science, it’s a measurable way for describing how well something is known. All science, no matter how careful the methods, contain some degree of uncertainty. Uncertainty isn’t a weakness. It’s how scientists and journalists equitably and responsibly convey what we know and how well we know it. Watch this animated video to better understand scientific uncertainty, and how it factors into reporting on climate science. This video was created by Metcalf Institute in partnership with the University of Rhode Island College of the Environment and Life Sciences.

Animator

Lead Script Writer


Solutions Journalism Network Trainings

Our partnership with the Solutions Journalism Network (SJN) broadens our reach to journalists around the world. SJN’s global network and strong social media presence have been key to helping us reach a larger audience than we could alone. In 2025 and 2026, Metcalf and SJN collaborated free trainings, which are all available to listen to online:

2026 Webinars

2025 Webinars


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