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BMOL50070

Academic Year 2024/2025

Public Science Communication (BMOL50070)

Subject:
Biomolecular & Biomed Science
College:
Science
School:
Biomolecular & Biomed Science
Level:
5 (Doctoral)
Credits:
5
Module Coordinator:
Dr Craig Slattery
Trimester:
Spring
Mode of Delivery:
Blended
Internship Module:
No
How will I be graded?
Pass/Fail (GPA Neutral)

Curricular information is subject to change.

The aim of this module is to train students to effectively communicate scientific information and research findings to a range of audiences, with particular emphasis on public/lay communication. The module is for late-stage (Year 3+) PhD students across the College of Science. The module will provide in-depth oral and written communication training for peer, media and public audiences.

The module consists of a series of science communication workshops that will outline the importance of communicating science, and provide students with core skills and strategies to effectively communicate scientific information, including their own research. Workshops will be delivered by experienced science communicators, science journalists and professional presentation coaches. Assessments include a written ‘lay’ abstract, a 'lay' seminar, and a ‘lay’ poster presentation based on the students own research.

About this Module

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of the module, students will be able to:
1. Outline the importance of communicating science to non-specialist audiences
2. Describe different approaches for communicating complex scientific information to non-specialist audiences
3. Critically assess science communication strategies
4. Explain the impact of information and misinformation on the public, governments and policy makers
5. Communicate their own research to a public audience in an accessible and engaging manner

Student Effort Hours:
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

18
Small Group

5
Specified Learning Activities

30
Autonomous Student Learning

55
Total

108

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Workshops
External Speakers
Online Materials
Group Work

Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 

Assessment Strategy
Description Timing Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Assignment(Including Essay): Lay Abstract Week 4 Pass/Fail Grade Scale No
15
 No
Practical Skills Assessment: Lay Poster Week 11 Pass/Fail Grade Scale No
25
 No
Practical Skills Assessment: Lay Presentation Week 9 Pass/Fail Grade Scale No
60
 No

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 

Remediation Type Remediation Timing
In-Module Resit Prior to relevant Programme Exam Board
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, on an activity or draft prior to summative assessment
• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment
• Peer review activities
• Self-assessment activities

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.

Name Role
Dr Craig Slattery Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
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