BMOL50070 Public Science Communication

Academic Year 2023/2024

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.

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Curricular information is subject to change

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 Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Continuous Assessment: Continuous Assessment Throughout the Trimester n/a Graded No

100


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
Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
 

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