SCOM Papers
Overview
There is a revolution rather than just an evolution happening in the way we communicate - and it's happening much faster than even those of us with an eye to such matters appreciate. Audiences for traditional media (films, radio, television, books, newspapers and magazines) used to communicate ideas and information are declining - and that is especially so amongst people less than thirty. If we wish to communicate science to the up and coming generations, then we have to go where their eyes are: and that's online.
It's a mistake to think that the declining audiences for traditional media means that people are becoming less interested in communication - be it about science or whatever. The truth is that we are shifting to a world where people do it differently, that's all, and if we want to communicate science we better damn well learn how to communicate in that world. It's a world of online communities, of blogs, of avatars, of websites, of photo and video sharing, of iPods and iPhones.
Actually, as this paper shows, it is all rather exciting and offers huge potential, along with significant challenges, for the communication of science and factual storytelling.
Objectives:
- Gain an understanding of the history and development of new production and distribution technologies, such as blogs (web logs), podcasting and videocasting.
- Develop research skills to aid in the appropriate use of new media.
- Analyse effective uses of new media.
- Develop practical skills in the planning and design of new media projects.
Examples of components of this paper:
- Blogs and other text-based content online
- Podcasting and online audio
- Videocasting and online video
This paper is taught in association with the Department of Design Studies.
Examples of practical exercises associated with this paper:
- Design a podcast.
- Design a videocast.
- Present a research seminar.
- Write a blog.
Eligibility
Available ONLY to students enrolled in a Master of Science Communication (MSciComm).