Effective communication between scientists and the public is essential for tackling societal challenges like climate change, health, and sustainability. Students pursuing research roles in academia, industry, government, or non-profits must be able to convey their work to non-specialist audiences.
The Latham Science Engagement Fellowship, in particular, focuses primarily on developing project management and science communication skills, and provides selected students multiple pathways to actively participate in collaborative science outreach opportunities and engage our community in thinking about science. Platforms like Stem-O-Sphere and the Synthesis journal further amplify student voices, showcasing their innovative approaches to science communication and ensuring that scientific knowledge reaches and resonates with a wide audience.
Stem-O-Sphere.org is a student-run science publication website that posts engaging and thought-provoking blogs, podcasts and other science-based content.
Synthesis (ISSN 2643-8410 (online)) is a journal dedicated to publishing student science communication in various forms, including written, visual, and audio. Our mission is to showcase the innovative ways students communicate science to diverse audiences. The journal is published by the University of Iowa as a joint effort of the Latham Scientific Engagement Initiative, the Digital Scholarship and Publishing Studio.
Coursework Focused on Engagement & Outreach Skill Development
The ISA curriculum overall supports effective engagement and outreach, with the following courses focused on the necessary skills development.
- ISA: 4041 - Senior Capstone Project
- LATH: 3000 - Science Communication Skill Building
- LATH: 3001 - Latham Fellows: Science Outreach Project