SCI1000 · Science communication to influence change

Overview

The world is currently facing many challenges, from poverty and inequalty, to degradation of natural resources, climate change and increasingly frequent natural disasters. Science and scientists have key roles to play in understanding and addressing these issues now and in the future, locally and globally. However, scientific insights and solutions are only effective if it they can be shared effectively with other stakeholders – including those with limited scientific training. In this unit you will choose an issue of interest to you, and conduct a project to find, explore and communicate relevant science to non-specialist audiences. You will have opportunities to work both independently and in collaboration with other students. SCI1000 will equip you with the skills you need to communicate your thinking, knowledge and findings to others, whether you aim to be a mathematician modelling data, a physicist exploring techniques behind new superconductors, a chemist finding greener approaches for industry, or a biologist increasing the nutritional content of vegetables. Or perhaps you are an earth scientist or ecologist monitoring changes to climate or ecosystems, or someone with a fascination for science who wants to ensure the right ideas are being heard in the right places. Whatever your areas of interest or career aspirations, the skills you will develop are highly sought by employers in all industries and discipline areas. As you build skills in finding, analysing, translating, and ethically presenting complex ideas you will also be building a strong foundation for your future studies and career development.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Identify features of effective scientific communication across a range of disciplines, purposes, and audiences;
2. Locate and critically evaluate different sources of scientific ideas, knowledge, and research;
3. Effectively communicate scientific thinking, complex concepts, and research to different audiences using a variety of formats;
4. Explore ethical aspects of science communication and its broader impact on contemporary society;
5. Collaboratively communicate scientific concepts and research relating to a sustainable development goal aligned with your areas of study.

Workload

• 2-hours of workshop activities; • 4-hours of online interactive content (videos, readings, instruction and reflection) and • 6-hours of completing assessments per week.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.