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SCIT2100

Science and Professional Communication

10 Units 2000 Level Course

Available in 2013

On-Line from Callaghan Semester 1, Semester 2

Previously offered in 2012, 2011, 2010

This very practical course equips students with the essential knowledge, skills and attitudes for effective communication. The course introduces the exciting field of 'science communication' and provides training in most aspects of personal presentations. Other communication issues likely to impact contemporary professional people are also presented. As part of the course students are required to conduct a small practical or work-based communication project.

Objectives On successful completion of this course, students will:

1. have an holistic understanding of the principles of contemporary scientific and professional communication
2. appreciate the ethical, OH&S, legal, technological and practical implications of their work as a leader/communicator.
3. be able to effectively communicate professional and scientific messages with various audiences peers, other professionals and the general public via personal presentations
4. possess the essential skills to effectively work in various contemporary scientific or professional contexts.
Please note: Science is broadly defined to include maths, engineering, medicine and technology.
Content Module 1 - Background to contemporary science and professional communication
- What is science? What is communication? Introduction to science communication.
What do we mean by "professional communication" and why is it important?
- An introduction to the legal and regulatory implications of your work including privacy, risk management, OH&S aspects of presentations and events, IP&
- How do you ensure quality events and communications? Lifecycle design, evaluation, feedback and Total Quality Management (TQM) are introduced.

Module 2 - Science and professional presentations
- Developing a presentation: structure, content, timing, props, interaction&
- Preparing for a presentation: rehearsal, setup, warm-up&
- Basic presentation skills: cuing, visualizing, questioning&
- Advanced presentation skills: voice, body language, professionalism&
- Practical issues: Using resources such as PowerPoint, PA systems and equipment

Module 3 - Science and professional communication in practice
- The essential skills for contemporary leader/communicators are introduced: Netiquette and email, research and referencing, meetings, preparing reports and briefings, leadership and teamwork, time and project management
- A compulsory practical / work-based project

Plus two electives. Topics to be selected from:
- Science shows: science theatre, story-telling, demonstrations, interpretation&
- Science communication & the internet
- An introduction to science writing
- Introduction to working with the media
- Communicating research
- Leadership
- Effective evaluation
- Introduction to sciences centres, museums, zoos, eco-tourism
- The University of Newcastles science communication programs
Replacing Course(s) n/a
Transition n/a
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge Nil
Modes of Delivery Distance Learning : IT Based
Flexible Delivery / Student Centred Learning
Teaching Methods Email Discussion Group
Self Directed Learning
Assessment Items
Group/tutorial participation and contribution participation in on-line group work.
Journal Reflective Journal to be submited with Portfolio
Other: (please specify) Portfolio on practical project in Module 3
Other: (please specify) Brief written and multimedia assignments
Quiz - On-line
Contact Hours Self Directed Learning: for 10 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Timetables 2013 Course Timetables for SCIT2100