This module aims to provide students with better and critical understanding of increasing need and changing conditions for evidence-based communication. Traditional as well as newly emerging problematic science communication topics are discussed and analysed in the context of the contemporary media environment taking into the account following questions:  what kind of challenges science communicators face today in the environment of increased uncertainty and rapid change? How do we communicate science effectively in the era of disinformation, information overflow or fake news? What are the recommendations, guidelines and useful resources for young professionals?

Knowing the audience: it is important to know, who are the students you are going discuss the material with, - where they are coming from, what are their background and what knowledge do they have about the topics, so that you could adapt/adjust some of the content to the level of their knowledge, understanding and direct it closer to their field of interest. For instance, this module of Science Communication was tested with the students coming from different backgrounds and holding different level of diplomas, however, it was not an obstacle, - through open discussions and active participation students were able to find their own approach to the course and the material.  

Being open and flexible: LIVE discussions are very important. While pre-recorded videos provide students with study material, it is essential to have a  discussion and address some of the questions, issues, which are important for the students. Being flexible and open and able to give the floor to the students to express themselves and get their feedback is as much important as providing them with the material. The discussions can be carried out in larger or smaller groups, depending on overall number of students and on individual preferences.

Explaining the reasons why this module is the part of the study course: while this module might be seen as relevant (especially taken into the consideration the global situation today) and could be successfully integrated and discussed in a variety of different study courses (e.g., social studies, communication, psychology, health studies, technologies, etc.), however, it is essential to make clarifications for the students, why should we talk about Science Communication in this particular study course. Such explanations and justifications increase students’ motivation and participation