Modes of Science Communication from Coursera

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Syllabus

Introduction and Oral Forms of Communication

Welcome to course 3! In the first module, you will learn important considerations for effective oral presentations, including best practices for giving live, recorded, and virtual presentations. In addition, we will also cover best practices for creating visual supports (poster, PowerPoint slides) to help communicate your message during an oral presentation. We will also discuss best practices for media interviews.

Written Forms of Communication

In this module, you will learn best practices for writing as a vehicle for science communication. Rather than focusing on grammar and general writing mechanics, this section will focus on how to effectively use the written form as a tool for science outreach, including how formal scientific writing varies from pieces for the general public.

Technological Forms of Communication

In this module, you will learn about technological forms of science communication outside traditional media (e.g. written or oral communication). In this module, we will discuss how science is communicated through various forms of educational technologies, including computer games, simulations, and social media. We will also briefly discuss learning analytics and their utility in understanding learning in technology-based environments.

Artistic Forms of Communication

In this module, you will learn about the importance of artistic forms of science communication. The arts can serve as an important gateway between scientists and the rest of society making difficult or abstract concepts feel more personal and less intimidating. Here, we will talk about use of art, such as photography as well as music to help feel others connected to science topics.

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Teaches best practices for effective oral presentations, which is a core skill in many fields

Develops skills in writing as a vehicle for science communication, which is useful in both academic and professional settings

Examines technological forms of science communication, which is increasingly relevant to learners of all ages

Introduces artistic forms of science communication, which can make complex topics more accessible

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 Modes of Science Communication with these activities:

Revisit your notes and assignments from previous science courses

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Reviewing your notes can help you recall the fundamentals of science and prepare your mind for the course.

Browse courses on Scientific Method

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Gather your notes and assignments from previous science courses.
Skim through the materials, highlighting important concepts and ideas.
Spend more time reviewing the topics you find more challenging.

Compile and review your class notes, assignments, and quizzes

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Regularly reviewing your course materials will reinforce your understanding and help you identify areas where you need additional support.

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Gather all your class notes, assignments, and quizzes.
Organize the materials into a logical order.
Review the materials, focusing on key concepts and ideas.

Follow online tutorials on visual presentation tools such as Canva or PowerPoint

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These tutorials will enhance your ability to create visually appealing and engaging presentations.

Browse courses on Visual Communication

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Identify online tutorials that cover the features and functionalities of Canva or PowerPoint.
Follow the tutorials step-by-step, practicing the techniques shown.
Experiment with different design elements and templates.

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Read 'Writing Science: How to Write Papers that Get Cited and Proposals that Get Funded' by Schimel

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This book provides practical guidance on scientific writing, covering best practices and strategies for effective communication.

View Your Future on the Faculty on Amazon

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Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
Read through each chapter, taking notes on key concepts.
Apply the techniques discussed in the book to your own writing.

Join a study group to discuss course materials

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Engaging in discussions with peers can enhance your understanding of the course material and different communication techniques.

Browse courses on Science Communication

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Find a study group or create one with classmates.
Schedule regular meetings.
Take turns presenting different topics and facilitating discussions.
Provide constructive feedback to each other.

Practice delivering presentations on a variety of topics

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Regular practice will improve your confidence and delivery skills.

Browse courses on Oral Communication

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Choose a topic that interests you.
Prepare your presentation using the best practices discussed in the course.
Practice delivering your presentation in front of a mirror or with a friend.
Record yourself and review your delivery, identifying areas for improvement.

Volunteer at a science museum or outreach event

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Volunteering provides hands-on experience in science communication and connects you with a wider audience.

Browse courses on Science Outreach

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Contact local science museums or organizations that host outreach events.
Inquire about volunteer opportunities and express your interest in science communication.
Attend training sessions provided by the organization.
Participate in outreach events and engage with the public.

Develop a science communication project using a creative medium

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This project allows you to creatively apply your understanding of science communication techniques.

Browse courses on Science Communication

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Choose a topic and medium that resonates with you.
Research your topic thoroughly.
Develop your project using the creative medium of your choice.
Present your project to the class or a broader audience.

Career center

Learners who complete Modes of Science Communication will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Science Writer

Science Writers are responsible for translating complex scientific research and concepts into clear and accessible language for a variety of audiences. This course can help you develop the skills necessary to effectively communicate science to the public, which is essential for success in this role. You will learn best practices for writing for different audiences, including the general public, scientists, and policymakers. You will also learn how to use different media, such as print, online, and social media, to reach your target audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer

Science Communicator

Science Communicators are responsible for communicating scientific information to the public in a clear and engaging way. This course can help you develop the skills necessary to be an effective Science Communicator, including how to give effective oral presentations, write engaging articles, and use social media to reach your target audience. You will also learn about the different ethical considerations involved in science communication.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Communicator

Science Educator

Science Educators are responsible for teaching science to students of all ages. This course can help you develop the skills necessary to be an effective Science Educator, including how to develop lesson plans, teach effectively, and assess student learning. You will also learn about the different resources available to Science Educators, such as online resources and professional development opportunities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Educator

Science Journalist

Science Journalists are responsible for reporting on scientific research and discoveries for the public. This course can help you develop the skills necessary to be an effective Science Journalist, including how to write news articles, interview scientists, and use social media to reach your target audience. You will also learn about the different ethical considerations involved in science journalism.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Journalist

Science Policy Advisor

Science Policy Advisors are responsible for advising policymakers on scientific issues. This course can help you develop the skills necessary to be an effective Science Policy Advisor, including how to communicate science to policymakers, analyze policy proposals, and advocate for evidence-based policymaking. You will also learn about the different ethical considerations involved in science policy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Policy Advisor

Science Museum Curator

Science Museum Curators are responsible for developing and managing science exhibits. This course can help you develop the skills necessary to be an effective Science Museum Curator, including how to design exhibits, write exhibit labels, and give public lectures. You will also learn about the different ethical considerations involved in science museum curation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Museum Curator

Science Librarian

Science Librarians are responsible for managing science libraries and providing reference services to scientists and the public. This course can help you develop the skills necessary to be an effective Science Librarian, including how to catalog and organize scientific literature, conduct literature searches, and provide reference services. You will also learn about the different ethical considerations involved in science librarianship.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Librarian

Technical Writer

Technical Writers are responsible for writing technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and training materials. This course can help you develop the skills necessary to be an effective Technical Writer, including how to write clearly and concisely, use technical writing tools, and understand the needs of your target audience. You will also learn about the different ethical considerations involved in technical writing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

User Experience Designer

User Experience Designers are responsible for designing the user interface of websites and other digital products. This course may be helpful for User Experience Designers who want to learn more about how to communicate science effectively. You will learn about the different principles of science communication, as well as how to use different media to reach your target audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for User Experience Designer

Science Photographer

Science Photographers are responsible for taking photographs of scientific subjects, such as plants, animals, and experiments. This course may be helpful for Science Photographers who want to learn more about how to communicate science effectively. You will learn about the different principles of science communication, as well as how to use different media to reach your target audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Photographer

Science Illustrator

Science Illustrators are responsible for creating illustrations of scientific subjects, such as plants, animals, and experiments. This course may be helpful for Science Illustrators who want to learn more about how to communicate science effectively. You will learn about the different principles of science communication, as well as how to use different media to reach your target audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Illustrator

Science Animator

Science Animators are responsible for creating animations of scientific subjects, such as plants, animals, and experiments. This course may be helpful for Science Animators who want to learn more about how to communicate science effectively. You will learn about the different principles of science communication, as well as how to use different media to reach your target audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Animator

Science Podcaster

Science Podcasters are responsible for creating podcasts about scientific subjects. This course may be helpful for Science Podcasters who want to learn more about how to communicate science effectively. You will learn about the different principles of science communication, as well as how to use different media to reach your target audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Podcaster

Science Blogger

Science Bloggers are responsible for writing blogs about scientific subjects. This course may be helpful for Science Bloggers who want to learn more about how to communicate science effectively. You will learn about the different principles of science communication, as well as how to use different media to reach your target audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Blogger

Science Social Media Manager

Science Social Media Managers are responsible for managing social media accounts for scientific organizations and institutions. This course may be helpful for Science Social Media Managers who want to learn more about how to communicate science effectively. You will learn about the different principles of science communication, as well as how to use different media to reach your target audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Social Media Manager

Modes of Science Communication

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