By Kang Hyun-kyung
Nobel laureate Dan Shechtman is a great communicator. He explains complex scientific ideas in clear and eloquent language which explains why he is recognized as a great teacher.
Asked how a materials scientist, who frequently use dry and obscure terminology intended only for other people in the field, came to have such strong communication skills, Shechtman shared insight on what underpins his approach to public speaking.
He said that science is not supposed to be difficult to learn and he always considers the point of view of his audience.
“I talk to people. I think about the people (that he is talking to). I try to make the scientific world very interesting and all my talks are easily understood,” he said.
Shechtman said he was elected as one of the best teachers by Technion and has been No.1 professor in the materials science department for 10 consecutive years.