Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title Issues in Science & Environmental Comm
Module Code CM518
School School of Communications
Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorSemester 1: Padraig Murphy
Semester 2: Padraig Murphy
Autumn: Padraig Murphy
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 10
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description
Thos module examines current debates and developing theoretical perspectives in the practice and study of science communication. It explores the characteristics of various models and formats of science communication and popular science. It reviews developments in environmental and risk communication in changing social and policy contexts.

Learning Outcomes
1. Analyse critically programmes, practices and policies of science communication in reference to relevant theoretical theoretical perspectives
2. Identify key drivers and constraints in the development of environmental and risk communication
3. Assess the applicability of various science communication approaches to particular circumstances
4. Describe the main trends in the recent development of theories in science and environmental communication



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture22No Description
Seminars11No Description
Assignment90No Description
Independent learning135No Description
Total Workload: 258

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Science popularisation and popular science.
The new agenda of dialogue and engagement.

Models of science communication.
Scientists' participation in public communication.

Science PR and promotion.
Science publishing and the internet.

Communicating climate change.
Communicating environmental and health risks.

Evaluating public engagement initiatives.
Science museums and science centres.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
EssayReview of popular science initiative20%Week 7
EssayLiterature critique on selected theoretical concepts30%Week 11
EssayCritical review of communication strategies around selected issues50%Sem 2 End
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 1
Indicative Reading List
  • M. Bucchi and B. Trench (eds): 2008, Handbook of Public Communication of Science and Technology, selected chapters, Routledge,
  • D. Cheng et al (eds): 2008, Communicating science in social contexts, selected chapters, Springer,
  • J. Turney (ed): 2007, Engaging science - thoughts, deeds, analysis and action, Wellcome Trust,
  • R. Holliman et al (eds): 2009, Investingating science communication in the digital age, selected chapters, Oxford University Press,
  • R. Holliman et al: 2009, Practising science communication in the digital age, selected chapters, Oxford University Press,
  • A. Hansen: 2010, Environment, media and communication, Routledge,
Other Resources
None
Array
Programme or List of Programmes
MSCM.Sc. in Science Communication
MSSEDMSc in Science Education
Timetable this semester: Timetable for CM518
Date of Last Revision25-JAN-11
Archives:
DCU
Address
The Helix
3U
NDP
Government
EU
Disclaimer | Privacy