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

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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