University of Kent

Core modules

Science@work - Science has a profound influence on professional practice in the private and public sector. This module considers the ways in which different professions interact with science and scientists, and their interactions with the public. The module includes seminars and discussions with active science communicators from diverse professional backgrounds (the media, education, industry, government, political lobbying, law). The speakers will illustrate their work and, using appropriate examples, describe the role of science communication within their profession. These seminars will be explored further in subsequent teaching sessions and will form the basis of a case-study driven introduction to theoretical perspectives on how science is communicated to the public. This module will also give students an idea of the range of careers available to effective science communicators, and offers networking opportunities with its visiting tutors.

History of Science Communication - There is no better way to understand how scientific knowledge is made and consumed today than to look at how this happened in the past. Examples come from the 200 years ago up to the present day, and highlight how changes in the media of knowledge have shaped our understanding of science – the steam-driven printing press, public lectures, museums, radio and TV. How have audience needs and interests changed during this time, and what can we apply from this understanding to implement appropriate communication of today’s scientific developments?

Optional modules

Science Communication in Practice - In order to communicate effectively with the public, we must understand what the public is. Which groups are represented within this broad classification? Which are easiest and which are most difficult to reach? How do we tailor scientific information for these different groups? In this module, existing knowledge of science communication practices will be applied to practical exercises in communicating scientific concepts to different audiences, using a variety of media, during discussion/group work sessions. The vehicle for delivering the scientific information will range from web-based material and laboratory-based exercises to interactive CD-ROMs and small advertising ‘stubs’. The module will also consider how to evaluate the effectiveness of science communication activities using qualitative and quantitative methods, and how to apply these methods to students' own work.

Science, Ethics and Controversy - Science is often presented as a united body of knowledge, where serious instances of disagreement, exaggeration, fraud or malpractice are explained away as due to rogue practitioners or, increasingly, sensationalisation by 'the media'. But actually, disagreement is a fundamental part of science, as the sociological case studies of this module will show. It considers the complex relationship between scientists and their peers, sponsors, and patrons (including the media) and examines problems in the ethics of research and publication through discussion of controversial examples.

Visualising Science - This module considers in depth the visual presentation of science in its many forms. From museums to TV to web sites, we are surrounded by images of science: graphs, diagrams and imaging, the creation and significance of 'scientific icons' such as famous portraits of scientists and the instantly recognisable DNA double helix. What unconscious impressions do they create? And how can they be used wisely and effectively as a means to communicate science?

Geiger Counter at Ground Zero: Explorations of Nuclear America - Responsible for ushering in the modern atomic era, the USA is widely acknowledged as a pioneer in nuclear technology and weaponry. Receptivity towards the atom has nonetheless shifted over time: atomic materials once heralded the saviour of American society (through the promise of reactors delivering ‘electricity to cheap to meter’) have also been deemed responsible for long-term environmental problems and doomsday anxieties. Along with events of global significance (such as the bombing of Hiroshima), the module also covers the more intimate views of American citizens living and working close to ground zero. Personal testimonies come from ‘atomic foot soldiers’ traversing blast sites in the 1950s and protesters trespassing across reactor sites in the 1970s. In particular, the module examines the role of media, propaganda and image in inventing popular understandings of the nuclear age, as well as the contribution of atomic scientists to national discourse. (NB. This module is part of another Masters programme and is therefore not timetabled on Mondays. Contact us for further information).

Please note that availability of optional modules is dependent upon them having a viable number of registered students. In order to reserve contact time on Mondays, some optional modules may run concurrently. Contact course directors for the latest information.

Research project

The Science Communication Masters Project is the culmination of the MSc programme, and students are expected to apply the knowledge they have gained from individual modules to examine an appropriate issue in depth.
We offer two types of project. The first type is a "dissertation project" and will consist of a humanities-style extended essay. This may treat a historic or contemporary episode in science, with a focus on its communication and interpretation.
The alternative choice, "practical project" will involve the development of a science communication package tailored to a particular audience. In addition to costing and developing the package, the project will involve researching the needs of the audience and developing an evaluation strategy. A showcase "exhibition" will be organised upon completion of the projects to disseminate the work to the public.

The project will take place during the Summer Term and during the Summer University Vacation. Each student will be supervised by a member of academic staff in either the School of Biosciences or the School of History, depending upon the nature of the project. Your supervisor will discuss your research and approach with you. In some cases, we may also use experience from contacts outside the University to assist with specific elements of your project.