Centre for the Public Awareness of Science · ANU College of Systems and Society
Please note consent to enrol is required. Check that the correct class number is chosen for delivery mode (in-person, online) when enrolling. This course dives into the history, theory and practice of science communication at an advanced level. It covers contemporary competing theories in science communication, the historical roots of the discipline, and a deep understanding of science communication professional practice. It is targeted at students specialising in science communication and provides a solid foundation for further studies in science communication, touching on multiple communication mediums, considerations of different aims and audiences, and some specifics of communicating particular kinds of scientific information. Students will develop foundational science communication conceptual and research skills in this course. The course is compulsory for students in the Master of Science Communication program (MSCOM); it may also be suitable for postgraduates in other disciplines, particularly in the sciences, who would benefit from its overview of the current science communication landscape. This course is co-taught with undergraduate students but assessed separately.
Regular short writings on science communication topics
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4
Oral exam on science communication history and theory
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 4
Journal article review assignment (written and oral presentations)
Learning outcomes 1, 3, 4
Research essay
Learning outcomes 2, 4
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including: In-person class: - Face-to-face teaching component, which may consist of 11x 1-hour lecture, 10x 2-hour tutorial per week. - Approximately 99 hours of self-directed study which will include an online lecture and reading material plus preparation for seminars and other assessment tasks. Online class: - Online teaching component, which may consist of 11x 1-hour lecture, 10x 2-hour tutorial per week. - Approximately 99 hours of self-directed study which will include an online lecture and reading material plus preparation for seminars and other assessment tasks.
There are no prescribed textbooks, and readings (or links to readings) are provided on the course site.