In this course, you will explore how to develop and implement evidence-based methods for science communication. We’ll discuss major theories of human learning, cognitive phenomena like bias and motivated reasoning that can undermine even the best activities, and the science behind why mis/disinformation spreads so quickly. We’ll end with motivational interviewing and a discussion of how to use learning engineering to design educational activities.
The Harder Side of Science Communication
The Harder Side of Science Communication
This course is part of Designing Effective Science Communication Specialization
Instructor: Melanie Peffer
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
Recommended experience
6 hours to complete
3 weeks at 2 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Describe the field of the learning sciences.
Describe and compare different theoretical frameworks for explaining human learning.
Explain the relationship between cognitive biases and why people fall for mis/disinformation.
Describe the process of motivational interviewing and its utility in science communication.
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Assessments
3 assignments
Taught in English
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This course is part of the Designing Effective Science Communication Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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There are 4 modules in this course
In this module, you will learn about the learning sciences. You will also discuss the methods used by learning scientists to generate evidence on how people learn.
What's included
3 videos1 reading1 assignment1 plugin
In this module, you will learn about four major theoretical frames for describing human learning. This includes cognitive theories of learning, contextual theories of learning, social cognitive theories and behaviorism.
What's included
4 videos4 readings1 assignment
In this module you will explore cognitive phenomena such as epistemic cognition, cognitive biases, and motivated reasoning. You will also discuss strategies for designing science communication activities that will help mitigate the influence of bias.
What's included
4 videos6 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt
In this module, you will learn about learning engineering. You will also have a chance to try learning engineering for yourself and either design or re-design a science communication activity using the principles from this course.
What's included
2 videos4 readings1 peer review
Instructor
Offered by
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University of Colorado Boulder
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