Veidlapa Nr. M-3 (8)
Study Course Description
Research Impact and Communication
Course Code
SZF_209
Branch of Science
Other social sciences
ECTS
3.00
Target Audience
Business Management; Communication Science; Information and Communication Science; Juridical Science; Law; Political Science
LQF
Level 7
Study Type And Form
Full-Time
Study Course Implementer
Course Supervisor
Ieva Puzo
Structure Unit Manager
Ieva Puzo
Structural Unit
Faculty of Social Sciences
Contacts
Dzirciema street 16, Rīga, szf@rsu.lv
About Study Course
Objective
The course aims to develop students' ability to communicate complex scientific information in a clear, engaging, and impactful manner. Students will learn to tailor messages to various audiences and contribute to public understanding of science.
Preliminary Knowledge
To successfully complete the course, it is necessary to complete the study courses "Qualitative and Quantitative Methods in Social Sciences", "Methodological Seminar for Master's Thesis Development and Defense of the Topic Application".
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
1.Students will understand the key theories and models of science communication. Students will recognize the role of science communication in shaping public understanding and policy decisions. Students will analyze how different audiences perceive and interpret scientific information.
Skills
1.Students will communicate complex scientific concepts into clear and engaging language for diverse audiences. Students will develop compelling science narratives using storytelling, metaphors, and analogies. Students will apply digital media tools such as social media, podcasts, and video to communicate science effectively. Students will write persuasive and accessible science communication materials, including op-eds, policy briefs, and outreach content.
Competences
1.Students will communicate scientific information ethically, ensuring accuracy and avoiding sensationalism. Students will adapt communication strategies to different cultural, societal, and professional contexts. Students will apply critical thinking to evaluate and counter misinformation in science communication. Students will be able to develop impactful and audience-driven science communication projects.
Assessment
Individual work
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Literature studies |
-
|
-
|
|
2.
Expert article writing |
30.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
3.
Brief writing on a current science issue |
30.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
Examination
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Course project |
40.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
Study Course Theme Plan
FULL-TIME
Part 1
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Introduction to Science Communication
|
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Impact pathways
|
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Science Storytelling
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Science Storytelling
|
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Digital & Multimedia Communication
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Digital & Multimedia Communication
|
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Crisis Communication & Misinformation
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Crisis Communication & Misinformation
|
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Science Communication for Policy & Decision-Makers
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Science Communication for Policy & Decision-Makers
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Course project and its presentation
|
-
Consultation
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
0
|
Topics
|
Course project and its presentation
|
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
22 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Exam (Oral)
Bibliography
Required Reading
1.
Illingworth, S., Allen, G. Effective Science Communication. 2nd Edition. A practical guide to surviving as a scientist, 2020.Suitable for English stream
2.
Kearns, F. Getting to the Heart of Science Communication. A Guide to Effective Engagement. 2021.Suitable for English stream