Academic Programme in Science Communication
The curriculum

The main body of the course will be presented by Professor Bruce Lewenstein, head of the science communication department at Cornell University in the USA. Several other guest lecturers will be invited to present some components, including local tutors to address local needs and challenges in the field of science communication.

The outline content for the four modules is as follows:

  • Module 1: Introduction to science communication
    23 - 24 August 2005
    • Overview of science communication - definitions and role players
    • Introduction to the social context of science
    • Science and the mass media; science journalism
    • Science and non-news media


  • Module 2: Science, communication and culture
    26 - 28 September 2005
    • Models of science communication
    • Introductions between science and culture (politics, ethics, religion)
    • Local perspectives on practice of science communication


  • Module 3: Science communication and science policy
    26 - 28 October 2005
    • Definitions of science (especially with respect to indigenous knowledge)
    • General and local history of science
    • Scientific institutions and scientific cultures
    • Research funding


  • Module 4: Science communication integration and practice
    21 - 23 November 2005
    • Reflection on what it means to be a science communication professional
    • Science communication skills, strategies and techniques
    • Metaphors, crisis and risk communication (including statistics in science communication)
    • Research in science communication
    • Training other science communicators
    • Reflection on public control of science and social construction of science

Students will be expected to do some preparation and background reading during before the first module begins, and will also have to hand in a final assignment soon after the last module. Students will be expected to participate fully in the constructive evaluation of the pilot course.

Top