Latest Module Specifications
Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026
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Description This module is designed to support PhD students in developing science communication skills across traditional and new media, which are applicable to their specific PhD research project and also to a professional context as future researchers and science communicators. The aim of this module is to introduce students to theory and practice of science communication. Particular emphasis will be on developing specialist practical skills to clearly communicate research findings to the ‘lay’ (non- expert) audience. Communication skills can include writing for the non-expert audience e.g. feature writing, news report writing, and science blogging; broadcasting skills can include podcasting and radio production; and social media skills for science communication. Students will develop the capacity to distill and disseminate complex research findings while engaging with lay audiences based on a deep understanding of the interplay between science, media and society. Students will be able to select, develop, apply, and evidence specialist communication proficiencies in science communication. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Critically evaluate theoretical approaches to science communication at the forefront of science, media and society, in the context of a specific doctoral-level research project; and manage the planning associated with developing a communication strategy for at least one non-expert audience (e.g. patients), and employing at least one communication mode (e.g. science exhibition; social media campaign etc.). 2. Draft a piece of journalistic writing related to a specific doctoral-level research project communicating research findings to a non-expert audience. 3. Create an audio production communicating research findings to a non-expert audience. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Introduction to science communication theory Science, media and society Science in the public Science in the media Science Communication Strategy Assessment and Planning Doctoral research stage appropriate science communication strategy-assessment and planning to be conducted in consultation with supervisor and doctoral supervisory panel around science communication strategy applicable to both a specific research project and a wider professional context. A communication strategy development plan to be designed, to include a review, justification and identification of specialist communication proficiencies for at least one non-expert audience (e.g. patients), and employing at least one communication mode (e.g. science exhibition; social media campaign etc.). Writing for the non-expert audience Feature writing News reporting Writing for new media Acquiring new competencies in writing for the non-expert audience Develop a piece of journalistic writing communicating research findings in relation to a specific doctoral-level research project. Broadcasting to the non-expert audience Journalistic research skills Interview skills Audio production skills Acquiring new competencies in broadcasting to the non-expert audience Create a standalone podcast episode based on your doctoral-level research project. This audio production will be scripted, recorded, edited and disseminated to an online audience. Communication strategies for social media | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List Books:
Articles: None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Other Resources None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||