Discovering Science: Science Writing (FutureLearn)

Offered by University of Leeds,
Discovering Science: Science Writing (FutureLearn)

What science discoveries will you choose to write about? Without science writing, science could not really exist. By recording experiments and publishing the results of studies and discoveries, scientists can share their important work, and find an engaged audience. Science writing takes many forms: from press releases to video scripts. You’ll learn about different types of science writing, and look at the factors which you need to consider to write a story.

Class Deals by MOOC List - Click here and see FutureLearn's Active Discounts, Deals, and Promo Codes.

You’ll discover how to gather accurate information and relevant opinions as well as tips on how to conduct a successful interview.

Syllabus

Week 1: Exploring the science story
Week 2: Science in the news

What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you'll be able to...

  • Explain what science writing is and identify different types.
  • Identify how to source examples of science writing and evaluate them.
  • Evaluate how science is communicated through the media.
  • Identify how to define an audience, angle and the top-line in science writing.
  • Demonstrate how to structure a narrative.
  • Identify the appropriate use of reporting and interviewing techniques.
  • Develop a news article, blog post or video script.
  • Reflect on the power of science blogs and videos as communication tools.

Who is the course for?
The course is suitable for anyone with a general interest in science; no previous knowledge or experience is required.
If you are working in the field of science and would like to practice and improve your science writing skills, this course is designed to support you as a professional. By completing all aspects of the course you will have achieved 10 hours of CPD time.

Go to Class
MOOC List is learner-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Related Courses

The Many Faces of Dementia (FutureLearn) FutureLearn
University College London

The Many Faces of Dementia (FutureLearn)

Gain a unique insight into dementia through the stories, symptoms and science behind four less common diagnoses. Explore key issues in dementia care and research, through four less common forms. Dementia is one of the foremost priorities in global health and is estimated to affect over 44 million people worldwide.

Self Paced
4 Weeks
Preparing for PTE Academic (FutureLearn) FutureLearn
YouSTUDY International College

Preparing for PTE Academic (FutureLearn)

Develop confidence and prepare for success by understanding the structure and learning outcomes of the PTE Academic test. Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic is the world’s leading computer-based test of English for study abroad and immigration and is widely accepted by universities, colleges and governments around the world. All test takers should prepare for PTE Academic, even if English is your first language.

Self Paced
4 Weeks
Virtual Work Experience and Exploring the Veterinary Profession (FutureLearn) FutureLearn
The University of Nottingham

Virtual Work Experience and Exploring the Veterinary Profession (FutureLearn)

Learn what it takes to become a vet and explore the challenges of the vet profession to decide if it's the right career for you. Get virtual vet work experience before embarking on a veterinary degree. The COVID-19 pandemic means that many potential vet students cannot undertake animal handling work experience. On this course, you’ll get insight into the reality of life as a vet so that you can make an informed decision before embarking on a veterinary degree course.

Feb 1st 2021
2 Weeks
The Scientific Revolution: Understanding the Roots of Modern Science (FutureLearn) FutureLearn
University of Groningen

The Scientific Revolution: Understanding the Roots of Modern Science (FutureLearn)

Learn about the seventeenth-century Scientific Revolution and its role in shaping the modern Western world. How did the science of today come about? What constitutes ‘modern’ science? How does science relate to religion? Answer these questions and more with this course that travels back in time to the seventeenth-century Scientific Revolution to explore the roots of modern science.

Self Paced
3 Weeks
EAL: English Language for Nature Conservation and Sustainability (FutureLearn) FutureLearn
Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology,Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology - NMIT

EAL: English Language for Nature Conservation and Sustainability (FutureLearn)

Advance your study of English as a second language as you explore sustainability and discover the wonders of New Zealand. Improve your language skills with the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology. The themes of conservation and sustainability are present in most major academic English exams such as IELTS, TOEFL, and NZCEL. This four-week course will prepare you for reading, listening, writing, and speaking about these themes.

Jun 27th 2022
4 Weeks
Foundations of Science for Undergraduate Degrees (FutureLearn) FutureLearn
The University of Nottingham

Foundations of Science for Undergraduate Degrees (FutureLearn)

Develop the right skills for study and assessment in higher education while refreshing your core science knowledge.Give yourself an advantage for starting a university degree. With interruptions to education occurring all the time, many school students intending to go to university in the coming years may not feel prepared.

Aug 23rd 2021
5-12 Weeks
The Science Behind Forensic Science (FutureLearn) FutureLearn
King's College London

The Science Behind Forensic Science (FutureLearn)

Get an introduction to the science of forensic science and discover how it's applied in the real world. Discover the biology and chemistry behind forensic science. How does forensic science really work? How are scientific principles applied in crime scenes? Answer these questions and more with this course from the team who teach the longest-running forensic science programme of its type in England.

Self Paced
4 Weeks
An Intermediate Guide to Writing in English for University Study (FutureLearn) FutureLearn
University of Reading

An Intermediate Guide to Writing in English for University Study (FutureLearn)

Improve your academic English skills further, learning about critical analysis, using sources, avoiding plagiarism and more. On this course you will expand your academic English skills and learn the necessary extended writing and research skills for producing a thorough and high standard extended essay.

Self Paced
5-12 Weeks