The field of science communication and public engagement with science is currently enjoying unprecedented growth. This is driven by a greater need to demonstrate the impact of publicly funded research, the need for research to be valued, increased government scrutiny and a desire for a stronger evidence base for policy. Many career opportunities are emerging at the interface between scientific research and various public groups. Students will experience a variety of science communication and public engagement issues and methodologies. In the process, they will develop critical thinking skills and self-evaluation skills through reflective practice. The learning gained from one course is transferable to other courses, thus ensuring interconnection across the programme.
Areas to Cover
1. What is science communication for, and why is it important in our society now?
2. Defining science in the public sphere
3. Contemporary issues in science communication
4. Introduction to science in museums
5. Introduction to science journalism and broadcasting
6. Activism and political engagement about science
7. Public attitudes and social representations
8. Health and medical communication
9. Ethics in science communication
10. Science and entertainment media
11. Digital media
12. Popular Science Books and magazines.
There will be several assignments which may involve reading, listening to or viewing relevant sources before class, written composition, or exhibition-related work.
There will be a practical project for which students will choose an area of interest to work. The areas will include:
• Science, media and journalism
• Science museums, science centres and public events
• Science, government and policy
• Health communication
The course will be assessed through
• Attendance at and active participation in presentations
• Speaking assignments
• Writing assignments
• Practical Project
• End of semester examination
Recommended Books/Reading List
1. Bowater, L., & Yeoman, K. (2013). Science communication: a practical guide for scientists. Hoboken: Wiley.
2. Boxman, R., & Boxman, E. (2017). Communicating Science: A Practical Guide for Engineers and Physical Scientists: WORLD SCIENTIFIC.
3. Alda, A. (2017). If I understood you, would I have this look on my face?: My adventures in the art and science of relating and communicating. New York: Random House.
4. Bennett, D., & Jennings, R. C. (2011). Successful science communication: telling it like it is. Cambridge; New York: Cambridge University Press.
5. Brake, M., & Weitkamp, E. (2010). Introducing science communication: a practical guide. Houndmills, Basingstoke, Hampshire; New York: Palgrave Macmillan.
6. Dean, C. (2009). Am I making myself clear?: a scientist's guide to talking to the public. Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press.
Areas to Cover
1. What is science communication for, and why is it important in our society now?
2. Defining science in the public sphere
3. Contemporary issues in science communication
4. Introduction to science in museums
5. Introduction to science journalism and broadcasting
6. Activism and political engagement about science
7. Public attitudes and social representations
8. Health and medical communication
9. Ethics in science communication
10. Science and entertainment media
11. Digital media
12. Popular Science Books and magazines.
There will be several assignments which may involve reading, listening to or viewing relevant sources before class, written composition, or exhibition-related work.
There will be a practical project for which students will choose an area of interest to work. The areas will include:
• Science, media and journalism
• Science museums, science centres and public events
• Science, government and policy
• Health communication
The course will be assessed through
• Attendance at and active participation in presentations
• Speaking assignments
• Writing assignments
• Practical Project
• End of semester examination
Recommended Books/Reading List
1. Bowater, L., & Yeoman, K. (2013). Science communication: a practical guide for scientists. Hoboken: Wiley.
2. Boxman, R., & Boxman, E. (2017). Communicating Science: A Practical Guide for Engineers and Physical Scientists: WORLD SCIENTIFIC.
3. Alda, A. (2017). If I understood you, would I have this look on my face?: My adventures in the art and science of relating and communicating. New York: Random House.
4. Bennett, D., & Jennings, R. C. (2011). Successful science communication: telling it like it is. Cambridge; New York: Cambridge University Press.
5. Brake, M., & Weitkamp, E. (2010). Introducing science communication: a practical guide. Houndmills, Basingstoke, Hampshire; New York: Palgrave Macmillan.
6. Dean, C. (2009). Am I making myself clear?: a scientist's guide to talking to the public. Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press.
- Lecturer: Prof. Kwabena Duedu