SCOM8027 Science and Public Policy

Offered By	Centre for Public Awareness of Science
Academic Career	Graduate Coursework
Course Subject	Scientific Communication
Offered in	Second Semester, 2009 and Second Semester, 2010
Unit Value	6 units
Course Description	The interface between science and public policy - between our key modern sources of knowledge and action - is of fundamental importance to modern society. Yet while our technologies and techniques of scientific enquiry have allowed us to learn ever more about the world, and our collective ability to enact change has become ever more powerful, the relationship between scientific knowledge and public policy action has never been entirely smooth. This course traces the dynamics, contours and fractures of this interface. Topics covered include: policy for doing science and for implementing its outputs; appropriate science and technology policy and practice; the relationship between science priorities and government priorities; the implications of funding arrangements; science in the community; the differing languages and time frames of scientists and policy makers; practical techniques for community involvement; the tensions between what stakeholders want and what they need; and risk perception, analysis and communication. It is our goal in this course to generate a mindset that can help to produce better policy for science, and better engage scientific enquiry with policy action.
Learning Outcomes	On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to: 1. Understand and describe key issues guiding science/policy interactions. 2. Systematically apply relevant theory and key science communication concepts to evaluate science policy initiatives in broad domestic and regional environments. 3. Design appropriate science policy for varied socio-economic and cultural contexts. 4. Engage in critical debate with acknowledged specialists. 5. Facilitate engaged discussion on science / policy topics.
Indicative Assessment	Assessment will comprise: Ongoing participation: discussion online and face-to-face showing systematic application of science communication theory to evaluate science policy initiatives (20%; LO 2) Fortnightly quiz: short answer questions to show ability to evaluate science policy initiatives and understand key issues guiding science/policy interaction (20%; LO 1, 2) Development of questions for specialist speakers, using course concepts to question/critique presentations by specialists (10%; LO 4) Presentation facilitation, guiding class discussion with specialist presenters (10%; LO 5) Essay / Report, providing systematic written evaluation of science policy initiatives and policy design in socio-economic and cultural context (40%; LO 2, 3)
Workload	Lectures by ANU staff and guest seminars by key public figures in the the science policy arena.
Course Classification(s)	TransitionalTransitional courses are designed for students from a broad range of backgrounds and learning achievements, which provide for the acquisition of generic skills; or an informed understanding of contemporary issues; or fundamental knowledge for transition to Advanced or Specialist courses.
Areas of Interest	Science Communication
Eligibility	Bachelor degree
Requisite Statement	General science knowledge
Programs	Master of Climate Change
Academic Contact	Dr Will J Grant

The information published on the Study at ANU 2009 website applies to the 2009 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2008 website.