The module will explore the communication process and its components, strategies for improving communication competence, and the key theories in developing an effective communication strategy that engages a variety of audiences. The module will also introduce the learner to narrative theory (the power of storytelling) and ethics in science communication. The module will cover key competencies in communicating with the media, constructing a press release and communicating with a variety of audiences in written, oral and digital media formats.

1. Apply principles of advanced communication theory to the creation of science communication content across a variety of formats, demonstrating strategic intent, audience awareness, and contextual relevance.
2. Create engaging written science communication content tailored to a variety of audiences, demonstrating advanced understanding of audience analysis, tone, format, and messaging strategies.
3. Critically design and evaluate a comprehensive communication strategy that facilitates effective and context-sensitive information dissemination across diverse and interdisciplinary audiences, demonstrating advanced understanding of communication theories and strategic planning frameworks.
4. Critically apply and evaluate the key characteristics of media communication and digital platforms across varied and complex contexts, demonstrating advanced insight into their strategic, cultural, and technological implications.
5. Critically analyse and evaluate the dynamic interplay between audience behaviour, emerging trends, and technological developments, and their strategic impact on communication practices across complex and evolving media environments.

Societies have changed over time, and consequently, so has science. This module will briefly examine a few of the many ways in which society influences science and how science responds to the needs and interests of the societies in which it takes place. The module will explore human behaviour in the context of scientific communication, and how to communicate topics that meet a societal need or promise to garner the attention of society.

1. Demonstrate critical insight into individual and collective human behaviour, applying relevant theoretical frameworks to inform science communication strategies and engagement practices.
2. Create and critically reflect on a narrative that explores societal needs, identifying and articulating the role of science in addressing or connecting to these needs through evidence-based and contextually relevant communication strategies.
3. Design and deliver an event that actively engages participants and stimulates meaningful discussion and reflection, applying advanced principles of facilitation, audience dynamics, and science communication.
4. Analyse and critically evaluate public responses to emerging sciences and technologies, applying interdisciplinary frameworks to interpret societal perceptions, concerns, and opportunities for engagement.
5. Critique the potential of science communication to inform policy at both organisational and societal levels, drawing on theoretical frameworks, case studies, and evidence-based practices to assess its influence and limitations.

Emerging technologies and changing user expectations require science communicators to embrace technology. For example, a udio-visual, animation, and VR tools are being used to effectively communicate scientific information and research findings to a range of audiences. The aim of this module is to immerse students in the power of technology and, using technology, reinvent their stories, deconstruct complex phenomena, and increase the outreach and impact of science.

A key focus is placed on the role of digital tools, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in shaping how scientific ideas are communicated. Students will investigate both the benefits and limitations of these technologies, considering issues such as accessibility, misinformation, trust, and ethical use.

Through engagement with contemporary case studies, practical exercises, and scholarly debates, learners will develop the skills to analyse, produce, and evaluate science and technology communication outputs. Emphasis is placed on audience analysis, narrative construction, visual and multimedia communication, and the societal context of science and technology.

1. Critically evaluate the theoretical foundations and evolving principles of science communication in the context of emerging technologies.
2. Merge and apply advanced knowledge of digital tools and platforms to design, implement, and critically evaluate innovative, evidence-based science communication strategies tailored to diverse audiences and contexts.
3. Produce inclusive, accessible, and ethically sound multimedia science communication outputs using contemporary technologies.
4. Critically assess the influence of digital ecosystemsincluding algorithms, misinformation, and participatory platformson public understanding of science and trust in scientific institutions
5. Design and conduct independent reflective practice, integrating scholarly critique and professional insight to evaluate the effectiveness and societal impact of technology-enhanced science communication.
6. Critically assess the benefits and pitfalls of using digital technologies, particularly AI, in science communication, including issues of accuracy, bias, transparency, and public trust.
7. Reflect critically on communication practices and the evolving role of communicators in an AI-influenced information landscape

This course invites prospective students to delve into the rich opportunities for collaboration between the creative arts and science engagement. Exploring a range of expressive forms such as storytelling, drama, dance, music, and visual art, participants will embark on a journey that begins with storytelling as a gateway. This initial focus will unlock the power of narrative and metaphor, shedding light on the social context of storytelling and its ability to foster engaging scientific discussions.

Throughout the module, students will engage in hands-on experiences, immersing themselves in various approaches, processes, and perspectives that arise from the collaborative synergy between artists and scientists. In certain contexts, the course will also delve into the involvement of audiences in co-creating multidisciplinary works, offering a dynamic and participatory learning experience.

1. Demonstrate a critical understanding of context-specific approaches, processes, and perspectives in science engagement, integrating theoretical frameworks with practical strategies to address diverse societal and stakeholder needs.
2. Lead and collaborate effectively on interdisciplinary projects that integrate diverse engagement disciplines, demonstrating strategic thinking, advanced communication skills, and stakeholder responsiveness in science communication contexts.
3. Utilise advanced theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches to design and deliver an innovative science communication event, effectively integrating digital tools, audience engagement strategies, and evidence-based content.
4. Lead the implementation of ethical, health and safety, and regulatory compliance measures in the planning and delivery of community engagement events, demonstrating accountability, stakeholder awareness, and professional standards in science communication.
5. Critically evaluate the role of effective communication in identifying and addressing issues of public interest related to societal challenges, drawing on relevant theoretical frameworks and interdisciplinary perspectives.

This module will provide learners with knowledge of how research projects are designed and what challenges researchers face in a very competitive and innovative environment. Learners will be provided with the knowledge to co-design a research project in collaboration with societal partners to ensure the delivery of an engaging research project that will have a societal impact. Projects explored will investigate issues of public concern, including societal challenges and sustainable goals.

1. Create, implement, and critically evaluate a stakeholder engagement strategy, demonstrating advanced understanding of participatory approaches, communication dynamics, and strategic alignment within science communication initiatives.
2. Lead the design and development of a research project that actively incorporates societal partners, demonstrating advanced skills in co-creation, stakeholder engagement, and ethical collaboration within science communication contexts.
3. Critically evaluate the use of appropriate analytical tools in research, and draw informed inferences from results to support evidence-based decision-making in science communication contexts.
4. Design, implement, and critically evaluate an evidence-based mechanism for identifying and engaging stakeholders relevant to current and emerging science communication scenarios, demonstrating strategic insight and contextual awareness.
5. Critically evaluate and select appropriate stakeholder engagement methods, demonstrating strategic judgement, contextual awareness, and alignment with the goals of science communication initiatives.

The aim of the module is to assess the theoretical and methodological nature of planned events by exploring the meaning of planned events, antecedents, experience, processes and outcomes. The theory and practice will be placed in the context of dissemination for science communication.

1. Interpret and critically apply theoretical concepts of event management, incorporating principles of management, public relations, and societal impact to design and evaluate science communication events.
2. Critically analyse the role of experience in event design, with a focus on creativity, audience engagement, and value-creation networks within science communication contexts.
3. Lead the end-to-end creation of a live, planned science communication event, from concept development through implementation to evaluation, demonstrating advanced event management practices and stakeholder engagement.
4. Critically apply insights from event evaluation to inform strategic planning and continuous improvement of future science communication initiatives.
5. Lead the development and implementation of strategic organisational event management approaches, integrating advanced planning, coordination, and evaluation practices to deliver impactful science communication experiences.

From the effects of climate change to newly emerging infectious diseases, science communicators cover some of the most complicated, fascinating, and significant topics of our day. They tell engaging tales about science using words, sounds, pictures, and graphics that are featured in print and online media, on TV and radio, in podcasts and videos, and in newspapers and magazines. Rapid change in the industry brings with it both opportunities and challenges. This module will explore how to ask the right questions and look at evidence to provide answers and create compelling written communication outputs for a variety of stakeholders.

1. Integrate and critically analyse scientific information to identify and construct compelling, evidence-based science narratives tailored to diverse audiences and communication contexts.
2. Apply advanced narrative and rhetorical strategies to critically enhance engagement, clarity, and understanding in science communication across diverse contexts and audiences.
3. Produce scientifically grounded written communication that identify and critically respond to misinformation, disinformation, and fake news to enhance public understanding and trust.
4. Critically analyse and adapt their writing to effectively communicate complex information to diverse audiences across varying technical, scientific, and public-facing fields by selecting appropriate structures, tones, and stylistic conventions tailored to specific audiences and purposes.
5. Bridge theory and practice by collaboratively designing and producing a range of science communication written outputs, involving stakeholders to ensure relevance, inclusivity, and impact.