Training Course on Science Communication and Public Engagement for Research Outreach Coordinators

Course Outline

 

Module 1: Foundations of Science Communication and Public Engagement

ü  Defining science communication and its strategic importance

ü  Why engage the public: trust, funding, policy, societal impact

ü  Models of science communication: deficit model, dialogue model, public engagement model

ü  The role of the science communicator as a bridge between science and society

ü  Ethical considerations in communicating scientific findings

ü  Practical Session: Analyzing successful science communication examples (e.g., TED Talks, popular science articles) for their effectiveness.

Module 2: Understanding Your Audience: Psychology of Science Perception

ü  Identifying diverse public audiences for scientific information

ü  Understanding public attitudes, values, and beliefs about science

ü  Cognitive biases and their impact on scientific understanding

ü  The role of emotion, personal experience, and identity in science perception

ü  Tailoring messages for different levels of scientific literacy

ü  Practical Session: Developing an audience profile for a specific scientific topic targeting a non-expert group.

Module 3: Translating Science: Simplifying Complexity for Non-Experts

ü  Techniques for simplifying complex scientific concepts without oversimplification

ü  Using analogies, metaphors, and everyday examples

ü  Avoiding jargon and technical language

ü  Structuring scientific explanations for clarity and readability

ü  The "What, So What, Now What" framework for scientific messaging

ü  Practical Session: Taking a complex scientific abstract and rewriting it for a general public audience.

Module 4: Narrative Building and Storytelling for Scientific Impact

ü  The power of storytelling in making science relatable and memorable

ü  Crafting compelling narratives around scientific discoveries and researchers

ü  Humanizing science: focusing on people, process, and implications

ü  Integrating suspense, conflict, and resolution into scientific stories

ü  Developing a "hook" to capture audience attention

ü  Practical Session: Developing a narrative arc for a scientific research project, focusing on its human impact.

Module 5: Visual Communication of Science: Data, Infographics, and Imagery

ü  Principles of effective visual design for scientific communication

ü  Creating clear and compelling graphs, charts, and data visualizations

ü  Designing infographics to explain scientific processes or findings

ü  Using imagery and illustrations to enhance understanding

ü  Basic tools for creating scientific visuals (e.g., Canva, simple data visualization software)

ü  Practical Session: Designing a simple infographic or visual explanation for a scientific concept.

Module 6: Digital Platforms for Science Outreach and Engagement

ü  Leveraging social media for science communication (X, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn)

ü  Creating engaging content for science blogs, podcasts, and video series

ü  Utilizing interactive platforms for citizen science and public participation

ü  Building an online community around scientific topics

ü  Measuring digital engagement for science outreach

ü  Practical Session: Developing a social media content plan for a research project's outreach.

Module 7: Media Relations and Traditional Channels for Science News

ü  Engaging with science journalists and news outlets

ü  Pitching scientific discoveries and research findings to the media

ü  Preparing scientists and researchers for media interviews

ü  Writing effective press releases and media advisories for scientific news

ü  Utilizing radio, television, and print for broader public reach

ü  Practical Session: Drafting a press release for a new scientific breakthrough.

Module 8: Addressing Misinformation, Disinformation, and Public Controversies

ü  Understanding the nature of scientific misinformation and disinformation

ü  Strategies for identifying and responding to false or misleading scientific claims

ü  Communicating effectively during scientific controversies and debates

ü  Building trust in scientific institutions and processes

ü  The role of prebunking and fact-checking

ü  Practical Session: Analyzing a piece of scientific misinformation and developing a strategy to counter it effectively.

Module 9: Evaluating Public Engagement and Science Communication Impact

ü  Setting measurable objectives for science communication initiatives

ü  Metrics for evaluating reach, engagement, learning, and attitude change

ü  Quantitative and qualitative methods for evaluation (surveys, focus groups, interviews)

ü  Demonstrating the societal impact and value of scientific research

ü  Reporting on communication outcomes to funders and stakeholders

ü  Practical Session: Developing an evaluation framework for a public science event or communication campaign.

Module 10: Policy Engagement, Citizen Science, and the Future of Science Communication

ü  Engaging with policymakers and government stakeholders on scientific issues

ü  The role of science communication in evidence-based policymaking

ü  Citizen science initiatives: involving the public in research

ü  Emerging trends in science communication (e.g., AI in communication, immersive experiences)

ü  Building a sustainable and impactful science communication career

ü  Practical Session: Brainstorming ways to integrate citizen science into a research project or public health initiative.

About the Trainers

The training will be delivered by a team of highly experienced Science Communicators, Public Engagement Specialists, and Researchers with extensive backgrounds in translating complex scientific information for diverse public audiences. Our trainers possess deep expertise in various scientific fields and have a proven track record of inspiring public curiosity and understanding of science. Their insights ensure that participants gain cutting-edge knowledge and actionable skills to effectively bridge the gap between research and society.

Quality Statement

We are committed to delivering high-quality, practical, and relevant training programs that empower professionals to excel in their roles and contribute significantly to the success of their organizations. Our courses are continually updated to reflect the latest industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices.

Admission Criteria

ü  Participants should be reasonably proficient in English. 

ü  Applicants must live up to Phoenix Center for Policy, Research and Training admission criteria.

Terms and Conditions

1. Discounts: Organizations sponsoring Four Participants will have the 5th attend Free
2. What is catered for by the Course Fees: Fees cater for all requirements for the training – Learning materials, Lunches, Teas, Snacks and Certification. All participants will additionally cater for their travel and accommodation expenses, visa application, insurance, and other personal expenses.
3. Certificate Awarded: Participants are awarded Certificates of Participation at the end of the training.
4. The program content shown here is for guidance purposes only. Our continuous course improvement process may lead to changes in topics and course structure.
5. Approval of Course: Our Programs are NITA Approved. Participating organizations can therefore claim reimbursement on fees paid in accordance with NITA Rules.

Booking for Training

Simply send an email to the Training Officer on training@phoenixtrainingcenter.com and we will send you a registration form. We advise you to book early to avoid missing a seat to this training.

Or call us on +254720272325 / +254737566961

Payment Options

We provide 3 payment options, choose one for your convenience, and kindly make payments at least 5 days before the Training start date to reserve your seat:

1. Groups of 5 People and Above – Cheque Payments to: Phoenix Center for Policy, Research and Training Limited should be paid in advance, 5 days to the training.
2. Invoice: We can send a bill directly to you or your company.
3. Deposit directly into Bank Account (Account details provided upon request)

Cancellation Policy

1. Payment for all courses includes a registration fee, which is non-refundable, and equals 15% of the total sum of the course fee.
2. Participants may cancel attendance 14 days or more prior to the training commencement date.
3. No refunds will be made 14 days or less before the training commencement date. However, participants who are unable to attend may opt to attend a similar training course at a later date or send a substitute participant provided the participation criteria have been met.

Tailor Made Courses

This training course can also be customized for your institution upon request for a minimum of 5 participants. You can have it conducted at our Training Centre or at a convenient location.

For further inquiries, please contact us on Tel: +254720272325 / +254737566961 or Email training@phoenixtrainingcenter.com

Accommodation and Airport Transfer

Accommodation and Airport Transfer is arranged upon request and at extra cost. For reservations contact the Training Officer on Email: training@phoenixtrainingcenter.com or on Tel: +254720272325 / +254737566961