Training Modules

1. Introduction to Science Communication
Definition and purpose of science communication: Exploration of the different purposes (to inform, to educate, to persuade, to involve) and target audiences [not present in sources].
Overview of different approaches and formats: From science journalism to institutional communication, from social media outreach to public engagement [not present in the sources, but logically consequent to the overview idea].
The role of researchers in science communication: Motivations, opportunities and responsibilities for scientists wishing to communicate their work.

2. Science Journalism: Fundamentals and New Trends
Professional identity and skills of the science journalist: What it takes today to become a professional science journalist.
Specific features of science journalism: Distinctions from other forms of journalism.
Structure, language and style of different forms of science journalism: Articles, interviews, reports, investigations.
Writing about science: Effective writing techniques for a non-specialist audience.
The main challenges and difficulties of science journalism today: disinformation, sensationalism, conflicts of interest.

3. Finding and Proposing Science News
How to ‘see’ a science news story: Identifying topics of journalistic interest within scientific research.
Assessing the ‘newsworthiness’ of a scientific discovery: Criteria of relevance, impact, novelty and public interest.
The different sources of scientific news: From scientific publications to press releases, from conferences to social media.
Pitching techniques: How to effectively present a scientific article idea to an editorial team.

4. Interacting with the Media
Preparing for and facing an interview with a science journalist.
Understanding the work of the scientific journalist: The timing, needs and logic of a newsroom.