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Science Communication Masterclass

Explore ideas at the frontier of science communication at ANU

22 January - 1 February 2024

Explore ideas at the frontier of science communication at ANU

  • The Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science (CPAS) at ANU was the first science communication centre in Australia and is now the most diverse of its kind in the world.
  • Join our ANU CPAS Summer Program to learn about science communication and engagement, join tours across Canberra, and see how studying science communication will give you a competitive edge.

Masterclass in science communication

Participants attending the CPAS Summer Program can expect to gain a range of skills and knowledge in the world of science communication — and open the door to a deeper engagement with the field.

At the end of the course participants will have the skills and knowledge to

  • Discuss the concepts underpinning science communication practice
  • Consider science communication strategies and tactics for different audiences, using a range of means, media, and technologies.
  • Gain understanding of the ethical responsibilities of science in the modern world
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Eligibility 

  • undergraduate and postgraduate students
  • currently pursuing an academic program at a university or equivalent
  • preference given to students from ANU partner universities

Academic requirements

Applicants must demonstrate a ‘credit’ GPA of 5.0/7.0 (or very similar) in order to be eligible for consideration.

Assessment

The CPAS Summer Program is not formally assessed. Completion of the course does not provide ANU course credit, and you will not receive an ANU transcript.

However, participants attending the course will work on informal group and individual projects to practice the lessons of the course, and feedback will be given to participants throughout to assist their development as emerging communicators of science.

Certificate

On successful completion of the course, all participants will be issued with an ANU Certificate of Participation.

Course costs

The total program cost is AUD$ 5,000. This cost is inclusive of:

  • tuition fee
  • accommodation and meals
  • interactive academic activities
  • cultural tours to different national institutions across Canberra

Language of instruction

The summer program will be conducted in English. Participants are not required to undertake an English language test. However, it is strongly recommended that all participants have competent skills in writing, reading, listening and speaking in the English language.

How to apply

Please complete the online application form to apply for this program. 

Bulk applications are also possible. Email international.STEMM@anu.edu.au for more details.

Important dates

Application deadline: Sunday 12 November 2023

Outcome notification: Friday 17 November 2023

Acceptance deadline: Sunday 3 December 2023

Course dates: Monday 22 January to Thursday 1 February 2024

Selection basis

Applicants are assessed on the responses to the statement of purpose in addition to their academic transcript.

Course capacity: 40 participants

Program flyer

Download the program flyer for more information. 

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Sample itinerary for week 1 (subject to change)

Time (AEDT) Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
  Week 1 - Day 1 Week 1 - Day 2 Week 1 - Day 3 Week 1 - Day 4 Week 1 - Day 5
09:30AM - 12:00PM

Welcome and orientation: 

Introduction to science communication

 

Science communication ethics

Misinformation and science communication 

Science in popular culture: science communication in contemporary movies 

Workshop: storytelling and improvisation techniques

01:30PM - 04:00PM

Science communication in social media 

Science engagement: Tour of Questacon –The National Science and Technology Centre

Hands-on climate engagement: practical activities, tinkering and science shows

Science engagement: Tour of Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Deep Space Complex 

Cultural tour of Canberra

           

Each session will be interactive, encouraging discussion and small group activities. The Science Engagement sessions will connect students with organisations who communicate science to diverse audiences in different ways, providing the opportunity to explore the different forms of science communication practice.