Science and the media: a workshop on effective communication for Animal & Plant Scientists

What is the rationale for doing this?

How does it fit with institutional strategy?

What are the main features of the provision?

What are the aims and expected outcomes?

Scientists must communicate with the public as well as with other scientists.  However, public communication of research requires very different approaches to those used when publishing in the scientific literature or when talking to a specialised audience of scientists.  The workshop included training in the communication of their PhD research topic in the following formats: (1) writing skills, (2) Speaking skills, (3) radio interviews. 

The course enabled students to acquire an enhanced level of generic skills in (a) preparation of news stories and press releases; (b) oral presentation of scientific  research to a lay audience, and (c) radio interviews.  Students also benefited from the personal experiences of all their colleagues.

Are there any pre-requisites for engagement, e.g. levels of skill, years of experience, essential pre-activities?

How many participate in each 'activity'?

There were no pre-requisites. The course was directed primarily at FT research students but PT students could also attend.  20 students attended the course.

How do you monitor effectiveness?

Who do you seek feedback from?

Do you have benchmarks?

This course has been of great benefit to PGRs by providing invaluable training in how to communicate science to both scientific and lay audiences.  The benefit is illustrated by the remarkable success rate of our students in gaining prizes for both oral and poster presentations at national and international conference in recent years.

To run an expanded media course.