Adviser: Mary L. Nucci, PhD (mnucci@sebs.rutgers.edu)
Program Webpage: http://humanecology.rutgers.edu/sci-outreach-minor.html
The Minor in Science Outreach (18 credits) will provide students with theoretical knowledge and practical experience necessary for careers that include the promotion of the public awareness and understanding of science, as well as for participation in informal science education. Educating the public about science has in recent years become a major component of the missions of research institutes, universities, science museums, science and nature centers, environmental or agricultural-based non-profits, non-governmental-organizations, extension arms of universities, and business and industry. All of these offer career opportunities for students with interest in popularizing and communicating science for the general public. Recognizing the interdisciplinary nature of science outreach, the Minor draws upon expertise from a number of departments to ensure that students are well equipped to address issues on outreach to the public. Students are encouraged to contact the Program Director prior to signing up for the Minor to discuss their interest and class selections.
Learning Goals
After completing the program students will be able to:
- Relate the need for understanding science and the scientific process for evidence-based decision making.
- Demonstrate an understanding of informal communication of science.
- Develop skills required for the public communication of science.
Minor Requirements
Required (9 credits)
11:374:103 Introduction to Science Communication
11:374:335 Informal Science Education
One course in introductory science - See https://sebs.rutgers.edu/core/natural-sciences.php or https://sasundergrad.rutgers.edu/degree-requirements/core/areas-of-inquiry-natural-sciences for list of eligible classes
OR
01:119:204 Outreach in Biology (Prerequisites: 01:119:115, 116 General Biology I And II; 01:119:117 Biological Research Laboratory).
Electives (9 credit, must take at least one course from each section)
Communication
11:300:340 Communicating and teaching climate science
11:374:240 Visualizing information: Storytelling with data
11:374:310 Storytelling for science majors
07:965:330 Improving communication through improv
11:355:425 Web authoring
01:355:375 Collaborative writing practices (social networking)
Informal education/learning
11:374:416 Environmental education in the school curriculum
11:607:401 Foundations of program planning
11:607:485 Understanding group dynamics and team processes
11:607:402 Building community partnerships
Project development/management
11:607:364 Grant development and management
11:607:401 Foundations of program planning
11:355:315 Grant writing
01:355:399/400 CESEP Internships
