Introductory description

The module will consider how science is communicated to different audiences and in different medias, drawing out issues around science in society, for example the roles and responsibilities of scientists and journalists in communicating scientific research and the public understanding of science. The skills that scientists need to competently communicate will also be explored.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Each 2-hour session is structured as a talk from an expert in the relevant area followed by and interactive seminar session including discussion, structured activities and preparation for assessment: i) Introduction to science communication
ii) Politics
iii) Importance of empathy in communication
iv) Introduction to video development
v) Science Festivals
vi) Storytelling as a vehicle
vii) Science and the media
viii) Scientific publishing
ix) Science funding
x) Research hustings

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Evaluate the effectiveness of communication in science
• Identify what makes science newsworthy
• Communicate scientific knowledge and ideas effectively and to a variety of audiences
• Evaluate the way science is presented in the media

Indicative reading list

The following books are useful as additional study.
Bowater, L. and Yeoman, K. (2013) Science Communication: a practical guide for scientists. Wiley-Blackwell.
Holliman, R. Whitelegg, E. Scanlong, E. Smidt, S. Thomas, J. (Eds) (2009) Investigating science communication in the information age: implications for public engagement and popular media. Oxford University Press.
Brake, M. and Weitkamp, E. (Eds.) (2010) Introducing science communication: a practical guide. Palgrave Macmillan.
Wilson, A. (Ed) (1998) Handbook of science communication with contributions from Jane Gregory, Steve Miller and Shirley Earl. IoP Publishing Ltd, London.
Holliman, R., Whitelegg, E., Scanlon, E., Smidt, S. and Thomas, J. (2009) Investigating science communication in the information age: Implications for public engagement and popular media. Oxford University Press: New York.
Alley, M. (2003) The craft of scientific presentation: critical steps to succeed and critical errors to avoid. Springer, New York.
Gregory, J. and Miller, S. (2000) Science in public: communication, culture and credibility. Plenum Trade, London.

Subject specific skills

(i) Evaluate the effectiveness of communication in science (ii) Identify what makes science newsworthy (iii) Communicate scientific knowledge and ideas effectively and to a variety of audiences (iv) Evaluate the way science is presented in the media

Transferable skills

1. Critical appraisal of source material
2. Self directed learning
3. Adult learning