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Strategic Communication for Sustainability Leaders

4.4 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Based on 11 ratings
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William “Bill” Dennison and Richard Arnold

Effective science communicators are in short supply during a time of unprecedented environmental challenges. As policy-makers, businesses, and communities seek solutions, the need for science communication skills will only grow. In this course, you will not only learn how to identify the tools of science communication, but will be able critique, refine, and develop them.

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Effective science communicators are in short supply during a time of unprecedented environmental challenges. As policy-makers, businesses, and communities seek solutions, the need for science communication skills will only grow. In this course, you will not only learn how to identify the tools of science communication, but will be able critique, refine, and develop them.

Any leader understands that data is the underpinning of competent decision-making. Complex systems require that data be presented in a clear and accessible format. You will learn to construct easy-to-interpret data visualizations that will enable you to build consensus and facilitate decisions across a broad spectrum of stakeholders.

Data tells us a story. Articulating and messaging this data-driven narrative to communicate the latest research is a key skill for any manager. You will learn to use proven techniques to develop such narratives so that you can effectively communicate complex data-sets to any audience.

Cogent science communication requires the effective integration of a captivating and accessible narrative with appealing multimedia data visualizations. These two new skills are the foundation for telling a larger story. Compelling “stories” are a proven approach to explain complex problems, involve the target audience, and motivate diverse stakeholders to work toward change.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to identify and critique features of science communication products that utilize effective visualization and narrative techniques.
  • How to produce appealing data visualization that avoid ‘chart junk’ or ‘map clutter’.
  • How to articulate a succinct, captivating narrative using the ‘and, but, therefore’ template.
  • How to develop a compelling science communication product that integrates best-practice visualizations and concise narrative.

Syllabus

Module 1:
Why is science communication important?
Iconic science communicators
The science behind science communication
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops skills in data visualization and narrative construction, which are essential for conveying complex environmental data to diverse audiences
Explores the science behind science communication, providing a theoretical foundation for practical application in environmental advocacy and policy
Teaches the 'and, but, therefore' template for crafting succinct narratives, a technique that can be applied across various communication contexts
Presented by the University System of Maryland and the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, institutions known for their environmental research
Examines color theory and its application in science communication, which may require learners to acquire color management software or tools
Covers assembling and delivering scientific presentations, which may be less relevant for learners focused on written or visual communication

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Reviews summary

Strategic communication for sustainability leaders

This analysis is based solely on the course description and syllabus, as no student reviews were provided. Based on the course content, it appears geared towards professionals seeking to improve communication skills specifically within the sustainability and environmental science sectors. The course promises to teach practical skills in data visualization, building compelling narratives, and developing communication products. It covers a broad range of topics from narrative structure to layout and design, and the use of various media. The focus on applying these skills to complex environmental challenges seems a core feature, aimed at helping leaders communicate effectively to diverse stakeholders.
Covers a wide range of communication aspects.
"The syllabus lists so many topics - narrative, visualization, design, different products like videos and presentations."
"It seems like they cover a little bit of everything important in science communication for a broad audience."
"I wonder if it goes deep enough into each topic, or if it's more of a general overview of techniques."
Teaches building narratives around data.
"Developing a compelling narrative for complex data is a skill I really need to improve for engaging audiences."
"The 'and, but, therefore' template sounds like a very useful and concrete structure for building a story."
"Connecting data to a story feels like a powerful approach to engage non-expert audiences on scientific topics."
Strong focus on visual presentation of data.
"The emphasis on data visualization is a key reason I'm interested in this course for presenting scientific data."
"Learning to avoid 'chart junk' and 'map clutter' sounds really useful for creating clear and accessible visuals."
"I hope they cover specific tools or techniques for creating the different types of visualizations discussed."
Aims to teach practical communication techniques.
"I expect to gain concrete tools for creating effective presentations and reports on environmental topics."
"The focus on data visualization seems very practical for explaining complex science effectively to different groups."
"Hoping to learn actionable strategies I can use immediately in my professional role dealing with sustainability issues."
Geared specifically towards environmental contexts.
"I was looking for communication skills within the sustainability sector, and this course seems perfect for that purpose."
"It's great that the examples and context are all related to environmental challenges and relevant data sets."
"The specific focus might not be for everyone, but it looks like exactly what I need for my work as a sustainability leader."

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 Strategic Communication for Sustainability Leaders with these activities:
Review 'Resonate' by Nancy Duarte
Learn how to craft compelling narratives that resonate with your audience.
View Resonate: Present Visual Stories that Transform... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read 'Resonate' and take notes on key concepts.
  • Identify examples of resonant presentations.
  • Apply Duarte's principles to a past presentation.
Review 'Storytelling with Data' by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic
Learn how to create compelling data visualizations that tell a story.
View Storytelling with Data: A Data Visualization... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read 'Storytelling with Data' and note key principles.
  • Critique existing data visualizations using the book's framework.
  • Redesign a data visualization to improve its clarity.
Practice 'And, But, Therefore' (ABT) Narrative
Reinforce the ABT narrative structure to create concise and compelling stories.
Show steps
  • Choose a scientific paper abstract.
  • Summarize the abstract using the ABT template.
  • Refine the ABT statement for clarity.
  • Repeat with different abstracts.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Data Visualization Critique
Apply visualization principles by critiquing existing science communication visuals.
Show steps
  • Find a data visualization online.
  • Analyze its strengths and weaknesses.
  • Write a short critique of the visualization.
  • Suggest improvements to the visualization.
Design a Conceptual Diagram
Practice creating conceptual diagrams to communicate complex environmental concepts.
Show steps
  • Choose an environmental process.
  • Identify key components and relationships.
  • Sketch a conceptual diagram.
  • Refine the diagram for clarity.
Develop a Science Communication Portfolio
Showcase your skills by creating a portfolio of science communication products.
Show steps
  • Identify a sustainability issue to focus on.
  • Create a data visualization related to the issue.
  • Write a narrative explaining the visualization.
  • Assemble the visualization and narrative into a portfolio.
Write a Science Communication Blog Post
Practice writing clear and engaging science communication for a general audience.
Show steps
  • Choose a sustainability topic.
  • Research the topic and find relevant data.
  • Write a blog post explaining the topic.
  • Include a data visualization in the post.

Career center

Learners who complete Strategic Communication for Sustainability Leaders will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Science Communicator
Science communicators bridge the gap between scientific research and the public, making complex scientific concepts understandable and engaging. This course offers invaluable skills for communicating intricate scientific findings through data visualization and compelling storytelling. The course provides skills to develop compelling science communication products that integrate best-practice visualizations and concise narrative. Moreover, learning to critique existing science communication materials is vital for a science communicator aiming to produce accurate and impactful content. An understanding of color theory basics can also be highly useful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Communicator
Sustainability Consultant
A sustainability consultant helps organizations reduce their environmental impact and improve their sustainability practices. This often involves communicating complex data and strategies to diverse stakeholders. The course helps consultants develop compelling narratives and data visualizations to effectively convey sustainability initiatives and gain buy-in from clients and the public. Mastering methods to refine and critique science communication products is an asset for any sustainability consultant who needs to win support for their sustainability strategy proposals. Understanding the science behind science communication is critical to this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant
Environmental Advocate
An environmental advocate champions environmental protection and sustainability through various means, and communicating scientific information effectively is paramount to this role. The course helps environmental advocates craft compelling narratives and data visualizations to influence public opinion and policy decisions. It also helps one learn to identify and critique features of science communication products that utilize effective visualization techniques. By mastering visual and narrative techniques, an environmental advocate will be well-equipped to promote their cause.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Advocate
Environmental Educator
An environmental educator teaches individuals and communities about environmental issues and promotes sustainable practices. This role requires the ability to present complex information in an accessible and engaging manner. The course provides skills to produce appealing data visualizations that avoid ‘chart junk’ or ‘map clutter’, and also to articulate a succinct, captivating narrative. The skills obtained in this course allow an environmental educator to create compelling presentations and educational materials that resonate with audiences of all ages. Any environmental educator who seeks to involve their target audience should take this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Educator
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
A corporate social responsibility manager develops and implements strategies for businesses to operate ethically and sustainably. This role involves communicating the company's social and environmental impact to employees, investors, and the public. This course helps the manager develop compelling science communication products that integrate best-practice visualizations and concise narratives. The ability to articulate succinct, captivating narratives can prove essential for a corporate social responsibility manager seeking to bolster their company's image and build stakeholder trust. Data visualization is key to this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Sustainability Director
A sustainability director is responsible for developing and implementing sustainability strategies for an organization. Communicating the organization's sustainability efforts to stakeholders is a key aspect of the role. The course helps sustainability directors craft compelling narratives and data visualizations to showcase their organization's commitment to sustainability. Learning to critique existing science communication products may be useful to this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Director
Science Journalist
A science journalist reports on scientific discoveries and advancements for news outlets or other media platforms. This requires the ability to understand complex scientific concepts and communicate them in a way that is both accurate and engaging for the public. The course provides techniques to articulate a succinct, captivating narrative using the ‘and, but, therefore’ template. By refining their narrative and data visualization skills, science journalists can elevate their reporting and contribute to a more informed public discourse on scientific issues. The course teaches students to identify and critique features of science communication products.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Journalist
Museum curator
A museum curator is responsible for acquiring, managing, and interpreting collections of artifacts or specimens. Increasingly, museums focus on sustainability and environmental themes. The course provides the skills to develop compelling exhibits that communicate scientific information effectively. This course helps improve the curator's ability to critique existing science communication products that utilize effective visualization and narrative techniques. The ability to create compelling data visualizations and succinct narratives can enhance the museum experience and educate visitors on critical environmental issues. This course is particularly useful for helping with exhibit layout and design.
See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator
Public Health Educator
A public health educator promotes healthy behaviors and prevents the spread of disease within communities. Communicating complex health information in a clear and accessible way is essential. The course provides techniques to articulate a succinct, captivating narrative using the ‘and, but, therefore’ template. Furthermore, the course helps public health educators craft effective messages that resonate with diverse audiences and encourage positive health outcomes. Public health educators should consider taking this course to improve their storytelling skills.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Educator
Science Outreach Coordinator
A science outreach coordinator develops and implements programs to engage the public with science. This role requires strong communication and presentation skills. The course helps build a foundation for delivering engaging and informative presentations that capture the audience's attention. This course helps the coordinator articulate a succinct, captivating narrative using the ‘and, but, therefore’ template. This course may be useful to an outreach coordinator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Outreach Coordinator
Environmental Policy Analyst
An environmental policy analyst researches and analyzes environmental issues to develop policy recommendations for government agencies or organizations. Effectively communicating scientific findings to policymakers and the public is crucial. The course assists policy analysts in presenting data in a clear and persuasive manner, which is essential for advocating for effective environmental policies. This course may be useful for any environmental policy analyst who wishes to persuade stakeholders.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Policy Analyst
Urban Planner
Urban planners develop plans and programs for the use of land and resources in urban areas. They often need to communicate complex data about environmental impact and sustainability to the public and policymakers. With skills learned from this course, urban planners will be able to evaluate the best ways to present data. This course may be useful to an urban planner.
See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner
Technical Writer
A technical writer creates clear and concise documentation for technical products and processes. In sustainability fields, this often involves explaining complex scientific data to a non-technical audience. The course enhances a technical writer's ability to translate complex data into easy-to-understand reports and manuals. The course provides skills to produce appealing data visualizations that avoid ‘chart junk’ or ‘map clutter’. For a technical writer, this course may be helpful in learning to create clear documentation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Fundraiser
Fundraisers are responsible for securing financial support for organizations, often non-profits. A fundraiser may be called upon to create a compelling science communication product that integrates best-practice visualizations and concise narrative. They may seek to persuade stakeholders to support environmental causes. The course also helps fundraisers learn how to articulate a succinct, captivating narrative using the ‘and, but, therefore’ template. This course may be useful for learning storytelling skills.
See salaries and explore the career path for Fundraiser
Market Research Analyst
Market research analysts study market conditions to examine potential sales of a product or service. Market research analysts work in many different sectors, and could be involved in the sustainability sector, for example, clean energy. The course provides skills to produce appealing data visualizations that avoid ‘chart junk’ or ‘map clutter’. Furthermore, analysts may communicate their findings to stakeholders. This course may be useful to a market research analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Market Research Analyst

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Strategic Communication for Sustainability Leaders.
Cover image
Storytelling with Data
Save
Provides a practical guide to data visualization and storytelling. It covers principles of effective chart design, highlighting key insights, and crafting a narrative around data. 'Storytelling with Data' valuable resource for creating clear and persuasive data visualizations. It is commonly used as a textbook and reference by professionals.
Storytelling with Data: A Data Visualization Guide...
Paperback
$$
Daphne Draws Data: A Storytelling with Data...
Hardcover
$$
Storytelling with Data: Let's Practice!
Paperback
$$
storytelling with data podcast
Podcast
Check Price
(Deutsch) Storytelling mit Daten: Die Grundlagen der...
Paperback
$$
(Italiano) Data storytelling: generare valore dalla...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Resonate
Save
Focuses on crafting compelling presentations that resonate with audiences. It emphasizes storytelling techniques and visual communication, aligning perfectly with the course's focus on narrative and data visualization. 'Resonate' provides a framework for structuring presentations to create emotional connections and drive action. It is highly relevant for developing impactful science communication products.
Resonate: Present Visual Stories that Transform...
Paperback
$$
(中文) Communication: the story resonate with(Chinese...
Paperback
$$$
(Deutsch) resonate: oder wie Sie mit packenden Storys und...
Paperback
$$
Communicate with resonate empathy (Korean Edition)
Paperback
$$$
Resonate: Present Visual Stories that Transform...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Rating
4.4 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
5 to 8 hours per week for 5 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institutions
University System of Maryland
University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science
Instructors
William “Bill” Dennison
Richard Arnold
Language
English
Transcripts
English Español tl
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops skills in data visualization and narrative construction, which are essential for conveying complex environmental data to diverse audiences
Explores the science behind science communication, providing a theoretical foundation for practical application in environmental advocacy and policy
Teaches the 'and, but, therefore' template for crafting succinct narratives, a technique that can be applied across various communication contexts
Presented by the University System of Maryland and the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, institutions known for their environmental research
Examines color theory and its application in science communication, which may require learners to acquire color management software or tools
Covers assembling and delivering scientific presentations, which may be less relevant for learners focused on written or visual communication
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