New intensive program to put scientists on a career fast-track
Media Release
From test tubes to taglines – Seneca College launches Science Communication Summer Institute
Toronto, March 24, 2014 – Seneca College’s new seven-week intensive Science Communication Summer Institute will provide scientists with the skills to communicate their knowledge in everything from research proposals and presentations to blogs and podcasts.
The only intensive program of its kind geared toward scientists and science graduates in the GTA, the Summer Institute will give scientists an additional set of skills for their current careers or help them to switch paths and become science writers.
“Scientists need to be able to communicate effectively to inform the community and engage the public in their work,” said Michael Maynard, Dean of the Faculty of Communication, Art and Design. “Whether you are a scientist with a professional goal of communicating clearly, or a science graduate with a passion for writing, this institute can give you an edge.”
The courses cover traditional media such as publishing and presenting, as well as blogs, audio and video. Students will also learn about getting their science story out and how to communicate through controversy and crisis.
The program will be taught by industry leading science communicators, including:
- Dawn Bazely, Biology Professor in York University’s Faculty of Science and Director of the University’s Institute for Research and Innovation in Sustainability
- Penny Park, Executive-Director of the Science Media Centre of Canada
- Stephen Strauss, President of the Canadian Science Writers’ Association
“Today’s scientists no longer have to wait to be interviewed by mainstream media to get their story out – they can communicate their own stories and research findings online using tools like social media,” said Penny Park, Executive-Director of the Science Media Centre of Canada. “There is a gap in this type of education and this institute provides an opportunity for scientists to learn how to directly engage and inform the Canadian public about the societal importance of their research.”
With campuses across the Greater Toronto Area, Seneca offers degrees, diplomas and certificates renowned for their quality and respected by employers. Combining the highest academic standards with practical, hands-on learning, expert teaching faculty and the latest technology ensures Seneca graduates are career-ready.