Innovation‑oriented science popularization (IOSP): A new paradigm for frontier science communication and innovation capacity building

Under China’s strategy of becoming a science and technology powerhouse, traditional transmission-oriented science popularization inadequately addresses youth demands for frontier technology practice, constraining source innovation in talent cultivation. Informed by international approaches such as learning by doing and responsible research and innovation (RRI), together with domestic Chinese practices, this study formulates innovation-oriented science popularization (IOSP) as a new paradigm focusing on frontier technologies, deep experiential learning, and innovation capacity building. IOSP establishes a systematic implementation pathway through four integrated dimensions: layered content design, virtual-real fusion, industry-academia-research-user linkage, and multi-scenario coverage. Taking the Shanghai Youth Science Innovation Practice Workstation as a case study, the study analyzes its operational mechanism and educational effectiveness. Instead of creating new disciplines, the study suggests embedding science communication modules within existing “new engineering” curricula and incorporating popularization metrics into current professional title evaluations. This paradigm effectively stimulates societal innovation vitality, working synergistically with traditional popularization to advance both public scientific literacy and strategic technology talent reserves.