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Public Science Communication

Overview

Module Code BMOL50070
Module Title Public Science Communications
Subject Area Science / Society
Credits 5
NFQ 9
EFQ  
Start Date 14 January 2025
Duration 12 Weeks
Time Fortnightly, each Tuesday (11AM-1PM)
Mode of Delivery Blended
Course Leader Dr. Craig Slattery
Fee

Full Fee: €750

*Subsidised Fee: €375

*50% Learner Fee Subsidy for eligible learners

(Please see below)

Application Deadline

Friday 6th December 2024 

Apply Now

This micro-credential is intended for people wishing to develop their own communications skills to a broad range of audiences, with specific emphasis on effective communication of scientific information and research findings. 

The course consists of 6 2-hour, science communication workshops delivered by experienced science communicators, science journalists and professional presentation coaches.

This course is intended or those involved in public science outreach and/or engagement activities in any sector. The course addresses both high-level strategic aspects and hands-on practical skills.

On completion of the course, participants will be able to:

  1. Outline the importance of communicating science to non-specialist audiences
  2. Describe different approaches for communicating complex scientific information to non-specialist audiences
  3. Critically assess science communication strategies
  4. Explain the impact of information and misinformation on the public, governments and policy makers
  5. Communicate their own research to a public audience in an accessible and engaging manner


 

Learners will develop their own core communication skills, whilst also developing strategic understanding of strategies for public science communication initiatives.

This micro-credential is delivered through the UCD online learning platform (Brightspace) and will consist of lectures/seminars (available online), critical reflection, and learner presentations. 

A repository of resources will be available to support your learning, and as a UCD student, you will have full access to the library. 

This is a 5 ECTS micro-credential and involves approximately 108 hours of learner effort.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

18

Small Group

5

Specified Learning Activities

30

Autonomous Student Learning

55

Total

108

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:

Workshops
External Speakers
Online Materials
Group Work

Applicants must hold a degree in science, engineering, medicine, nursing or another relevant discipline. An upper second-class honours Level 8 degree (GPA 3.08), or international equivalent is required.

Applications will also be accepted from those with significant, relevant, practical experience or those with a graduate qualification relevant to the micro-credential.

Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proof of English proficiency as per UCD's minimum English language requirements.

All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Written Assignment – 30%

Presentation – 40%

AV project – 40%

Written/recorded feedback will be provided for written assignments. Written feedback will be provided for presentations / projects.

Please note: Learners can avail of only one form of funding per application. 

Micro-Credentials Learner Fee Subsidy-Human Capital Initiative Pillar 3

The HCI Pillar 3 Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidy has been introduced to enable more learners to address critical skills gaps and engage with lifelong learning through micro-credentials. The HCI Pillar 3 Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidy is funded by Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. 

HCI Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidies are available on identified micro-credentials only from March 2024 until October 2025. Funded places are limited and course providers will administer the subsidy on a first come first serve basis.

Please see Eligibility Criteria for further information.