SCOM Papers
Note: This information is for 2011, and may have been updated since the Guide to Enrolment was printed.
| Title | Communicating Science |
|---|---|
| Code | SCOM406 |
| Subject | Science Communication |
| EFTS | 0.2 EFTS |
| Points | 24 points |
| Teaching Period(s) | Second semester |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZ$) | Fees for 2011 have not yet been set. 2010 fees information is available elsewhere on this website. |
| International Tuition Fees (NZ$) | Refer to tuition fees information for international students elsewhere on this website. |
Prescription
A seminar-based paper that explores the three main elements of communicating science: writing, speaking, and meeting ‘the media'.
Overview
Scientists can surely communicate, so you might wonder if there is really any need for a paper such as this? The problem for scientists is that while the scientific methodology (the testable hypothesis; the keeping all variables constant and changing one kind of systematic approach) is a wonderful way of discovering "truth" about the world in which we live, the method scientists use to communicate amongst themselves (scientific papers) is a lousy way of getting information across to the non-specialist.
Cue this course, stage right. Whether you are a scientist or just someone interested in telling stories about science to the public, we show you how to make your stories more interesting and more readily able to impart the information they contain. There's some theory in this paper for sure - but, as with the rest of this programme, we concentrate on the nuts and the bolts, on putting words into action.
Objectives:
- Understand basic concepts and principles of communication theory.
- Develop a science communication awareness strategy.
- Understand the elements of designing effective exhibitions, posters and interpretive displays.
- Develop an awareness of the different outlets and opportunities for writing about science.
- Appreciate the individual requirements for the different contexts of spoken communication.
- Develop and analyse ways of effective communication in the press, on television and radio.
- Understand how to plan and present a formal talk.
Examples of components of this paper:
- Designing better museum displays and the like.
- Dealing with the press.
- Coming across well on radio and television.
- A guide to being a better presenter.
Part of this paper includes working with personnel from the Otago Museum about the design or exhibitions and displays.
Examples of practical exercises associated with this paper:
- Making a museum or interpretive exhibition.
- Conducting a media interview.
- Writing a popular science article.
- Presentation of a public talk.
Eligibility
Available to ANY graduate-level (i.e. 400-level) student
Timetable
| Location | Dunedin |
| Timetable to be arranged | |