Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

In this unit, you will learn how to better understand the needs and experiences of different audiences, including learning how two-way dialogue can be used to develop both scientific research and governance, and how different media can be used to great effect.

This unit has been designed to provide you with the technical and practical skills to effectively engage a variety of audiences (other scientists, policymakers, community groups, etc.) with your research (and science more generally), using a range of different media (oral presentations, posters, podcasts, etc.).

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2025UWA (Perth)Face to face
Not available in 2025OnlineOnline Restricted
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) apply an understanding of the theory and technical skills that are needed to communicate science to different audiences and (2) create material that engages non-scientific audiences with scientific topics by better understanding their needs and experiences..

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) oral presentation; (2) podcast; and (3) video. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Heather Bray
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
MJS-SCCOM Science Communication
Incompatibility
Unit(s) SCOM2205 Science Presentations
Contact hours
Lectures: 1 hour recorded content (eg 3 x 20 mins) per week
Workshops: 1 x 2 hour per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.