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Theory and practice of making science public. Fosters creative, powerful communication of science in the modern world, including how to connect society with science and technology by enhancing enjoyment of scientific discovery.
Learn the theory and practice of making science public, including participatory science, outreach and public engagement events. Science communication is about bringing scientific knowledge to the public, but it's also about bringing the public's knowledge, concerns and interest to science. So how do we build the relationship between science and society? And how do we give the broader public a voice in scientific matters?
In this paper, we focus on the participatory and public aspects of science communication, both in theory and practice as we look at some practical know-how for strengthening the relationship between science and society. Working with the University's Centre for Science Communication (one of the largest such graduate teaching centres in the world), we'll take you through various ways science can engage with the public, culminating in the running of a public science-engagement event.
| Paper title | Engaging the Public with Science |
|---|---|
| Paper code | SCOM301 |
| Subject | Science Communication |
| EFTS | 0.15 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Semester 2 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $929.55 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- 54 200-level points
- Recommended Preparation
- SCOM 109
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music, Science
- Contact
Dr Fabien Medvecky (fabien.medvecky@otago.ac.nz)
- Teaching staff
- Teaching Arrangements
This paper is taught via seminars and workshops.
- Textbooks
- Selected papers are made available online through Blackboard.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Interdisciplinary perspective, Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking, Cultural
understanding, Information literacy, Self-motivation, Teamwork.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete this paper will
- Be familiar with the current issues in science communication
- Understand key current trends and movements in science communication
- Be able to strategise different science communication techniques
- Develop skills in engaging the public with science information in a number of formats
- Develop skills in presenting science in a public event
- Develop skills to engage the public to participate in science
- Develop oral communication skills
