Science Communication: Communicating Trustworthy Information in the Digital World from Coursera

In a world of information overload, how does one find reliable information? Science is supposed to be the answer to our society's complicated challenges. However, as the Covid-19 pandemic highlighted, not understanding what is fake news, misinformation or what is fact may lead to widespread public mistrust, or turn science into fuel for conspiracy theories or propaganda. Scientific findings are prone to change, making it difficult to effectively communicate them to the public. This fosters broad public skepticism towards major institutions, from the government to media to science. So, how can we communicate science effectively? And how can we rebuild trust in science? As a result, it is critical that we reconsider our science communication practices to recover public trust.

This course offers a current overview of science communication. We cover a wide range of topics like fake news, mis- or disinformation, but also how to combat these practices. We explore how major stakeholders (scientists, policymakers, science communicators and citizens) can work together to improve science communication. And we tackle how people and organizations can earn and maintain public trust via effective science communication. We recommend this course to scientists, journalists, policymakers or any learners interested in science communication.

More information can be found at www.trescaproject.eu (This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme under Grant Agreement No 872855.)

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 0

Welcome to the course! In this module, you will learn about the importance and relevance of effective science communication in the digital world. We will outline various topics and important concepts that will be discussed in the next modules.

Module 1: The Digital Communication Ecosystem

In this module, you will explore the effects of digital media on science communication and the implications on social trust.

Module 2: The (Social) Scientist

In the age of misinformation and fake news, there seems to be a public outcry for ‘trust in science’. This module shows you how social scientists produce knowledge and what challenges they face in communicating science.

Module 3: The Journalist

In this module, you will learn how journalists combat threats like fake news or misinformation. We also discuss how they ensure and navigate responsible and reliable reporting in today’s world.

Module 4: The Policy Maker

Policymakers make decisions in light of competing opinions on scientiﬁc issues. But what should they do to maintain public trust? In this module, you will explore evidence-based policymaking and the crucial role of science communication in the process.

Module 5: The Misinformation Road is Paved with Good Intentions

Digital media go hand in hand with misinformation. Why is that? In this module, you will learn how digital media facilitate the spread of (mis)information but also provide the tools to combat it.

Module 6: The Citizens

As a science communicator, you need to take in mind your audiences’ needs and characteristics to effectively get your messages across. This module will help you understand how people interpret scientific knowledge. Additionally, we look at strategies to engage citizens with science communication.

Module 7: Conclusion

You are getting to the end of the course. Let’s reflect on your learnings in the previous modules and identify best scientific communication practices we discussed.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches learners how to identify and combat fake news and misinformation, which is increasingly common in today's digital age

Exposes learners to a range of perspectives and opinions on scientific issues, helping them develop a more nuanced understanding of the world

Develops learners' communication skills, enabling them to effectively convey scientific information to diverse audiences

Taught by instructors with extensive experience in science communication and journalism, providing learners with access to expert insights and practical knowledge

Examines the role of social media in science communication, exploring both its potential and its challenges

Requires learners to have a basic understanding of science and communication, which may not be suitable for complete beginners

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Science Communication: Communicating Trustworthy Information in the Digital World with these activities:

Read The Misinformation Age: How Falsehoods Spread

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Review the key concepts and research findings presented in this book to gain a deeper understanding of how misinformation spreads.

View Liars on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly
Take notes on key points
Discuss the book's content with peers

Analyze science news articles

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Practice critically analyzing science news articles to identify biases, logical fallacies, and unsupported claims.

Browse courses on Science Literacy

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Read a science news article.
Identify the main claims and supporting evidence.
Evaluate the credibility of the sources.
Consider potential biases and conflicts of interest.
Write a summary of your analysis.

Explore online courses on science communication

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Seek out and follow online courses or tutorials to supplement your learning in science communication.

Browse courses on Science Communication

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Search for online courses or tutorials on science communication.
Read course descriptions and reviews.
Enroll in a course or tutorial that meets your needs.
Complete the course or tutorial and apply what you learn.

Four other activities

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Create a fact-checking website

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Start a website that focuses on verifying science-related information and dispelling misinformation.

Browse courses on Misinformation

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Choose a domain name and website builder.
Design the website layout and structure.
Establish a team of fact-checkers.
Create a content calendar and start publishing fact-checks.
Promote the website through social media and other channels.

Develop a science communication plan

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Create a plan outlining strategies for effectively communicating science to the public.

Browse courses on Science Communication

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Identify target audience and communication goals.
Research and select appropriate communication channels.
Develop key messages and supporting materials.
Create a timeline and budget for implementation.
Evaluate and refine the plan based on results.

Produce a science communication video

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Create a video that effectively communicates a scientific concept or issue to a lay audience.

Browse courses on Science Communication

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Choose a topic and write a script.
Gather relevant footage and visuals.
Edit the video using appropriate software.
Add music, sound effects, and narration.
Publish the video on social media or other platforms.

Identify and reach out to science communication professionals

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Seek out and connect with individuals who have experience and expertise in science communication to gain insights and guidance.

Browse courses on Mentorship

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Identify potential mentors in your field.
Reach out to them and introduce yourself.
Ask for their advice and support.
Meet with your mentors regularly.

Career center

Learners who complete Science Communication: Communicating Trustworthy Information in the Digital World will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Science Writer

Science writers communicate complex scientific concepts to the general public. They may write for newspapers, magazines, websites, or other media outlets. This course can help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and engaging science articles. You will learn how to research scientific topics, interview experts, and write in a style that is accessible to a general audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer

Science Communicator

Science communicators translate scientific information into language that the public can understand. They may work for universities, research institutions, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to communicate science effectively to a variety of audiences. You will learn how to develop and deliver presentations, write press releases, and create social media content.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Communicator

Science Journalist

Science journalists report on scientific discoveries and developments for the general public. They may work for newspapers, magazines, websites, or other media outlets. This course can help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and engaging science articles. You will learn how to research scientific topics, interview experts, and write in a style that is accessible to a general audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Journalist

Science Policy Analyst

Science policy analysts advise policymakers on scientific issues. They may work for government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to analyze scientific information and communicate it to policymakers. You will learn how to write policy briefs, give presentations, and testify before Congress.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Policy Analyst

Technical Writer

Technical writers create instruction manuals, user guides, and other technical documents. They may work for software companies, hardware manufacturers, or other organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and accurate technical documentation. You will learn how to organize information, write in a technical style, and use graphics and other visuals.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Science Educator

Science educators teach science to students of all ages. They may work in schools, museums, or other educational settings. This course can help you develop the skills you need to create engaging and effective science lessons. You will learn how to develop lesson plans, use technology in the classroom, and assess student learning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Educator

Grant Writer

Grant writers write proposals to secure funding for research projects. They may work for universities, research institutions, or non-profit organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to write winning grant proposals. You will learn how to identify funding opportunities, develop a research plan, and write a persuasive proposal.

See salaries and explore the career path for Grant Writer

Marketing Manager

Marketing managers develop and implement marketing campaigns for products and services. They may work for corporations, small businesses, or non-profit organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to create effective marketing campaigns. You will learn how to conduct market research, develop marketing strategies, and measure the success of your campaigns.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

Media Relations Specialist

Media relations specialists build relationships with the media and promote their organization's products or services. They may work for corporations, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to build relationships with the media, create media pitches, and manage media inquiries.

See salaries and explore the career path for Media Relations Specialist

Public Relations Specialist

Public relations specialists manage the public image of organizations. They may work for corporations, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to build relationships with the media, create marketing campaigns, and manage crises.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Relations Specialist

Fundraising Manager

Fundraising managers raise money for non-profit organizations. They may work for hospitals, universities, or other non-profit organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to identify funding opportunities, write grant proposals, and manage donor relationships.

See salaries and explore the career path for Fundraising Manager

Policy Analyst

Policy analysts research and analyze public policy issues. They may work for government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to analyze public policy issues, write policy briefs, and give presentations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Community Organizer

Community organizers work to improve the lives of people in their communities. They may work for non-profit organizations, government agencies, or community groups. This course can help you develop the skills you need to organize community events, build coalitions, and advocate for change.

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Event Planner

Event planners organize and manage events such as conferences, meetings, and parties. They may work for corporations, event planning companies, or non-profit organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to plan and execute successful events. You will learn how to develop a budget, find a venue, and promote your event.

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Nonprofit Director

Nonprofit directors lead and manage non-profit organizations. They may work for hospitals, universities, or other non-profit organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to manage a non-profit organization, raise funds, and build relationships with the community.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Director