Earning Criteria:

Learning Objectives:

• Identify and critique features of science communication products that utilize effective graphic and narrative techniques.
• Produce appealing graphs and charts that avoid ‘chart junk’ or ‘map clutter’.
• Craft a narrative using the ‘and, but, therefore’ template.
• Develop a best-practice compelling science communication.
• Produce appealing graphs and charts that avoid ‘chart junk’ or ‘map clutter’.
• Craft a narrative using the ‘and, but, therefore’ template.
• Develop a best-practice compelling science communication.

Skills learned from each module:

Module 1:

• Importance of science communication
• Identifying iconic science communicators
• Understanding the science behind science communication
• Crafting effective stories
• Audience analysis for communication
• Learning narrative structure for communication

Module 2:

• Data visualization techniques
• Creating and interpreting data visualizations
• Familiarity with classic conceptual diagrams
• Understanding IAN conceptual diagrams
• Knowledge of classic maps for communication

Module 3:

• Storyboarding techniques
• Creating active titles for content
• Understanding the storyboard creation process
• Project management skills for communication projects
• Mastery of layout and design principles
• Practical layout and design examples
• The ability to critique and review communication materials

Module 4:

• Grasping color theory fundamentals
• Applying color theory in science communication
• Using symbols and diagrams effectively
• Creating conceptual diagrams
• Analyzing conceptual diagram examples

Module 5:

• Distinguishing between science writing and science communication
• Developing various science communication products
• Incorporating photos and videos into science communication
• Preparing and assembling scientific presentations
• Skills for delivering effective presentations in a scientific context

Issued by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science