Centre for the Public Awareness of Science

The Centre was established in response to widespread expressions of concern about scientific literacy and the image of science. It brings together scientists, science communicators, journalists and people in industry to raise the public awareness of science. CPAS operates also within the expanding and exciting world of interactive science centres through Questacon, Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre.

A major objective of CPAS is to produce a new generation of highly qualified scientists and science students trained also in the discipline of communication. These graduates are developing new ways to excite the imagination of the public about science and to encourage informed decisions about science issues that will concern us in the 21st century.

Scientific Communication    SCOM2001

(8cp) Group B

Second semester
Three lectures/seminars and three hours of workshop/practical (or equivalent) a week

Convener:    Dr Sharyn Errington

Prerequisite: 36 Group A credit points

A quota may be placed on enrolments for this unit.

Syllabus:    Why communicate science? Principles of communication. Planning a communication strategy. Different styles for different audiences — scientists; general public; children; media. Scientific writing. How to write and publish a scientific paper. Writing for the general public. Science journalism — making it newsworthy. Public speaking and interview techniques. Presentation at conferences. Radio and TV script writing and presentations. Introduction to graphic design — layout; topography; colour. Producing a small publication. Poster design for conferences.

Proposed assessment: Assessment for the unit will be based on the successful completion of a project undertaken throughout the semester which is an example of science communication and reflects the general principles of good design and good communication skills.