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Centre for the Public Awareness of Science · ANU College of Systems and Society
In 2026, the delivery of SCOM2016 teaching will be as a week-long intensive in the S2 2026 teaching break, 14-18 September. For many people, the media is the only way they interact with any kind of scientific information. However the way science is presented by media outlets can influence the way society perceives issues, and consequently how they respond to them. This course examines the roles and relationships between science, journalists and society and the factors which influence them. Through this course you will learn how to critically appraise how information is presented in news media, as well as how to write for the media. This course will equip you with practical skills to make science relevant and engaging in a range of contexts, far beyond the media. It will also help you to understand why some scientific issues are so polarising, and how to effectively communicate in contested spaces. Honours Pathway Option Subject to the approval of the course convenor, students may elect to take this as an HPO course. Under this option, students will complete a research report instead of the report or portfolio. Students must confirm which path they wish to take by week 4 of semester.
Science news article
Learning outcomes 1, 2
Press release
Learning outcomes 1, 2
Presentation
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
Report or Portfolio
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
HPO Assessment: Research report (completed instead of report or portfolio)
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the session including: - Face-to face component delivered in a one week intensive Mon-Fri (approx 35 hours) - Approximately 95 hours of self-directed study which will include preparation for classes and other assessment tasks. Work Integrated Learning Other Course content and activities include some simulation and replication of typical workplace tasks. Activities and assessment integrate theory with practice; are planned and authentic; and the assessment tasks have been specifically designed to purposefully link to the curriculum. Other Information The press release and presentation assessment tasks will both be due during the intensive week.
N/A Preliminary Reading A range of peer reviewed journal articles and media pieces will be provided on the Learning Management System.