BIO 106 - Popular Science (W) (1)

As scientific experts tackle increasingly complex biological questions, it becomes more and more difficult to balance the need for scientific accuracy and the challenge of engaging the general public. Popular science, or Pop Science, seeks to make new areas of science accessible to a broad and non-specialist audience. What are the secrets of storytelling that captivate audiences and inspire decades-long fandoms? How can scientists learn from and partner with the media to make science more transparent and create a more informed public?

In this seminar, we will examine depictions of science in popular media created by journalists, filmmakers, and other creators. We will discuss and reflect upon the media’s influence on public perception of science and examine how the media can promote or combat scientific misinformation. We will also explore different strategies for creating scientific narratives and strategies for communicating science to a variety of audiences. This course will use examples from popular scientific journalists, podcasts, and science fiction television/film. Not open to students who have previously completed a First Year Writing Course.
(First Year Writing Seminar (FYW)) (Science)