STS.034 Science Communication: A Practical Guide
Spring 2025 | HASS-H | 3-0-9 Units | CI-H | Mon/Wed 2:30-4pm
Instructor: Michael John Gorman, Professor of the Practice of Science, Technology, and Society & Director MIT Museum
What are successful strategies for communicating around emerging science and technology with diverse audiences? From TikTok to podcasts, from film to immersive exhibits, this course will invite you to explore and experiment with practical approaches to science communication and public engagement.
Develops students’ abilities to communicate about science and technology effectively and to analyze science communication in a variety of real-world contexts. Considers tools, media, and strategies to engage polarized publics, audiences, and communities traditionally excluded from scientific discussions. Provides a theoretical and practical background in science communication — from citizen science, podcasts, and AI to art, science slams, and exhibitions — culminating in the development of a final science communication project to be presented in the MIT Museum. Enrollment limited.