This course focuses on the creation of clearer and more effective ways to communicate scientific matters to larger audiences. It provides participants with a thorough and practical understanding of the process used in developing a communication plan including the development of a strategic framework and accompanying action plan that allocates resources, responsibilities and timeframes. It has a strong emphasis on relating theory to current industry best practice in implementing a strategic approach to planning communication activities. The major project component is based around field work and evaluation of real life science communication strategies.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Explain the basics of communication and the difference between a strategy and a tactic
2. Understand the need to establish a strategic foundation (including definition of desired relationships) before planning communication tactics
3. Apply the knowledge provided by experiencing real life examples of how this approach to strategic planning has been used
4. Analyse the use of this approach to communication strategies by reviewing current science communication strategies
5. Evaluate the applicability of this approach by undertaking a detailed review of an existing Science Communication Strategy (review of both the strategic direction and also the tactics deployed)
6. Create a revised Communication Strategy and Tactical Plan on the strategy being reviewed and present this new plan to a "Board of Directors" in a role play

Assessment will be based on:

• Desktop review of a science-related communication strategy (35%; LO 1, 2, 3, 4)
• Identification and analysis of tactical planning aspects of a communication strategy (35%; LO 1, 2, 5)
• Presentation of desktop assessment of findings of both previous assessment items, simulating a real life experience of presenting to a high level Executive or Project Steering Committee (30%; LO 6)

30 hrs of lectures and 6 hours of tutorials over one semester. Lectures are 2hr duration during a weekday evening. Tutorials are 1 hr duration in a weekday evening.  Outside contact hours students are expected to spend at least 60 hours additional work.