WRIT 109: Climate Catastrophes will explore the storytelling of the climate crisis through film and documentary. Class focus is not limited to environmental issues and climate impacts, but will also examine how human response, as well as pro-environment behaviour, may be influenced by the stories told to us. Through guided discussion, the class examines how visual narratives shape understanding, emotion, and communication about climate change in contemporary culture and society.
Are you interested in spending some time at the Bamfield Sciences and Marine center this summer? Check out WRIT 321: Science Communications and Media!
For more information on how to apply visit https://bamfieldmsc.com/education/how-to-apply/
Effective science communication is a crucial bridge between science and society, helping the public understand the role of science in their lives. It is not only a means of sharing wonder, amusement, and excitement but also a tool for innovation and informed decision-making by citizens, policymakers, and funders. Science communication helps us grasp the challenges facing humanity and our planet while guiding us toward solutions.
Communication is also a critical part of the craft of science itself. Scientists need to be able to explain and justify what they do, both to their peers and bosses and to the general public. In an era where the validity of science is often questioned, scientists must learn to tell the story of their work—engaging, clear, and compelling narratives that resonate with the public and reinforce the importance of evidence-based decision-making.
This course will explore the many ways scientific information reaches the public, whether communicated by scientists themselves or by journalists, press officers, social media influencers and other intermediaries. To be impactful communicators, we must consider accuracy, medium of delivery, creativity, audience, and where we can make a difference. Students will learn about different communication channels, their strengths and weaknesses, and what makes science newsworthy.
This is a dynamic course requiring enthusiastic in-class participation. Through hands-on assignments, students will develop their own work in different media styles while critiquing the work of their peers and professionals. They will gain insight into the practices and goals of good science communication, including identifying audiences, communicating science in communities and developing key messages. They will also better understand how journalism works, including deadlines, journalistic balance, accuracy, and the use of quotes. Participating in interviews—both as subjects and as interviewers—will help students better understand what journalists need from scientists and how they approach their craft.
