Online Science Communication Course

CLOSED CALL

APPLICATION FOR FUNDING FOR STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY ONLINE SCIENCE COMMUNICATION COURSE

“#Scicomm online 2021”

Context

The South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA), a business unit of the National Research Foundation, promotes the development of science communication skills in scientists. Among its initiatives are the Young Science Communicators competition, FameLab and various science communication workshops, which aim to encourage young scientists to develop communication skills and communicate their work through various modes of communication. To further support the development of science communication skills, SAASTA will be paying the registration fees of up to ten participants, who have previously participated in any of SAASTA’s science communication initiatives from 2019-2021, to attend the online science communication course run by Stellenbosch University.

About the Course

Stellenbosch University (South Africa) is once again offering its popular online short course in science communication. The global coronavirus pandemic has put the public communication of science in the spotlight like never before. Around the world, research organisations, NGOs and individual scientists have come to realise the importance of effective and credible engagement with a wide range of public audiences. The online science communication course at Stellenbosch university is designed to help researchers and communication professionals to get to grips with the principles and practice of effective science communication. The course will be presented by Dr Marina Joubert, a pioneer of science communication practice and research in South Africa.

This year, the course will be presented over a period of six weeks from 14 June to 30 July 2021, followed by a practical assignment (to conclude by end of August 2021). Successful participation requires about 2 – 3 hours per week, as well as attendance of one 60-minute online discussion per week. All participants who successfully complete the course, will receive a certificate from Stellenbosch University.

Scientists, science communication practitioners and senior research students are invited to apply.

What does the course cover?

The course explores the histories and futures of science communication as a field of practice and research, including the challenges of creating effective and meaningful linkages between practitioners and scholars. The content and interactive discussions are designed to encourage critical reflection on best practice in terms of ethical and responsible science communication. In addition to learning from global trends and leading scholars in the field of science communication, the course content emphasises science engagement challenges in the developing world.

Course overview

• Week 1 – Introduction to science communication (14 – 20 June 2021)
• Week 2 – Science communication role players (21 – 27 June 2021)
• Week 3 – Science and the media (28 June – 4 July 2021)
• Week 4 – Creative approaches to sharing science (5 – 11 July 2021)
• Week 5 – Science communication as a field of research (12 – 18 July 2021)
• Week 6 – Practical skills for science communicators (19 – 25 July 2021)
• 26 July – 31 August 2021: Practical science communication project

Eligible applicants for funding of registration fees
Obligations of participants
Application and Selection Process

Scientists/science graduates/science students who have participated in SAASTA’s science communication initiatives, such as the Young Science Communicators competition, SA Science Lens competition, FameLab, the Youth Science and Technology Journalism programme between 2019 and 2021, will be eligible to apply. Applicants must reside in South Africa, have access to fast, reliable internet and be able to complete the 6 week course. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the entry to the course –a recognised university bachelor’s (or higher) degree or relevant tertiary diploma.

The participants will be required to produce the following:

• Copy of certificate of completion of course
• Copy of final project submitted in course
• Write two articles for the SAASTA-produced newsletter or similar platform, or produce two pieces using other communication modes (audio/video/etc.), without remuneration. Topics and communication piece will be agreed between participant and SAASTA.
• Attend two SAASTA-organised events or media-related initiatives as speakers/role-models/mentors, as appropriate, without remuneration (any travel costs, when necessary, will be covered by SAASTA).
• Failure to complete the course will require the participants to refund the registration fees to SAASTA.

• Applications will only be accepted from past participants in SAASTA associated science communication initiatives between 2019 and 2021. These include FameLab, Young Science Communicators competition, science communication workshop and the Youth Science and Technology Journalism programme. Only participants eligible for the course will be considered.
• A motivation for selection is required. Participants will be selected to ensure national and organisational representation, and based on experience in science communication, and their motivation to attend the course.
• The deadline for application is 11 May 2021.
• Successful candidates will be informed by 18 May 2021.

Contact Us

Lithakazi Masilela

sciencecommunicators@saasta.ac.za

Joanne Riley