This subject focuses on Science Communication with a particular focus on uses of (digital) technologies. Science communicators have different roles as teachers, journalists, museum curators, each playing a major role in promoting public understanding of science. This subject examines the skills and experiences that participants bring and works with them to further develop their abilities as communicators of science, focusing on opportunities and affordances of using digital technologies. Common practices, goals and outcomes in science communication will be explored, and the mediating influence of beliefs, values and understandings of and about science discussed. In particular, the importance of reflecting a humanistic perspective on science, as recently described in the national curriculum, in order to better engage various audiences (i.e. students, general public etc.) will be discussed.
Intended learning outcomes
On completion of this subject students should be able to:
- Apply and evaluate their philosophy for communicating science, and link this to educational theoretical and research literature
- Evaluate a range of social and philosophical issues affecting the success of science communication practices using digital technologies
- Critique and apply principles and theories to (re-)design science communication practices that use digital technologies to engage and educate, and that reflect a humanistic perspective of science
- • Critical reasoning and thinking • Problem solving • Communication • Evidence based decision making • Creativity and innovation • Teamwork and professional collaboration • Self-reflection, career awareness and lifelong learning • Active and participatory citizenship.