This course is offered in Semester 2 only through an intensive course conducted in Singapore in June (jointly with the National University of Singapore).

This course will deal with issues relating to the communication of science to various audiences including the general public and students. It will explore cultural issues in science and implications relating to the dynamic and uncertain nature of science and scientific methods. The current international focus on public awareness and science literacy will be explored and critiqued.  This course will include aspects of modern classroom practice, including recent research into communication of science and methods for effective, creative teaching. In particular, strategies for translating research-based science into effective curriculum materials will be addressed.  ` The material will be delivered online.  Candidates will also be required to spend one contact week (or its equivalent time online) during which some of the practical aspects of communicating science, particularly in the classroom, will be addressed.  This residential week will be run as a workshop, with candidates being required to participate actively in discussions and activities designed to promote creative and confident science teaching and learning.

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

1. Understand and describe the public awareness movement, its problems and current directions
2. Describe and address specific problems attached to teaching science
3. Develop and evaluate creative activities to enhance classroom teaching
4. Translate current research into relevant curriculum materials

Assessment will be based on:

• Evidence of learning portfolio - 5 iterations, plus goals and summary (30%; LO 1, 2)
• Science communication project by video (20%; LO 3)
• Three written assignments (3x 10% each; LO 1, 4)
• Discussion board activity (10%, LO 1, 3)
• Activities during workshop week or online workshop (10%; LO 3)

Bachelor degree in science or Bachelor of Education with science teaching experience.

This course forms part of the Master of Contemporary Science.