Although many would prefer to leave science in the past and no longer engage with it once completing compulsory science classes in school, the reality is that engaging with science is an integral part of our daily lives. Moreover, for the safety and wellness of human society, it is necessary to engage with scientific information. We are faced with the necessity of examining scientific evidence on topics ranging from conservation to public health and make decisions that impact not only our families but those around us. However, in spite of decades of science education reform and dedicated efforts to improving science literacy, many members of the general public lack the confidence, skills, or interest in engaging with scientific issues, instead choosing to align their scientific decisions with non-scientific stakeholders, such as political or pop culture figures. These problems are ongoing and destructive. How do we communicate science more effectively with the general public? With other scientists?
Designing Effective Science Communication
Instructor: Melanie Peffer
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What you'll learn
Describe principles of human learning that are important to consider when designing science outreach activities.
Compare and contrast modalities for science communication/outreach.
Identify common pitfalls in science communication/outreach.
Design a science communication/outreach activity based on principles learned in this course.
Skills you'll gain
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There are 5 modules in this course
In this module, you will learn the basics of human learning, including an overview of the cognitive processes that underlie learning (e.g. perception, attention, motivation, memory), major educational psychology theories (e.g socioculturalism, constructivism, behaviorism) and aspect of human cognition that can lead to difficulties with outreach (e.g. bias, motivated reasoning, epistemic cognition). We will also discuss use of evidence in designing outreach, how to evaluate types of evidence, and principles behind effective design of outreach.
What's included
5 videos4 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt1 plugin
In this module, you will learn important considerations for effective oral presentations, including best practices for giving live, recorded, and virtual presentations. In addition, we will also cover best practices for creating visual supports (poster, PowerPoint slides) to help communicate your message during an oral presentation. We will also discuss best practices for media interviews.
What's included
3 videos6 readings2 discussion prompts
In this module, you will learn best practices for writing as a vehicle for science communication. Rather than focusing on grammar and general writing mechanics, this section will focus on how to effectively use the written form as a tool for science outreach, including how formal scientific writing varies from pieces for the general public.
What's included
3 videos3 readings1 peer review1 discussion prompt
In this module, you will learn about technological forms of science communication outside traditional media (e.g. written or oral communication). In this module, we will discuss how science is communicated through various forms of educational technologies, including computer games, simulations, and social media. We will also briefly discuss learning analytics and their utility in understanding learning in technology-based environments.
What's included
4 videos1 reading2 discussion prompts
In this module, you will learn about the importance of artistic forms of science communication. The arts can serve as an important gateway between scientists and the rest of society making difficult or abstract concepts feel more personal and less intimidating. Here, we will talk about use of art, such as photography as well as music to help feel others connected to science topics.
What's included
4 videos6 readings1 peer review1 plugin
Instructor
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Recommended if you're interested in Research Methods
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Arizona State University
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