Module 6: Communicating with Research Partners and Stakeholders

Description: This module provides trainees with the skills to communicate effectively with peers and different  stakeholder groups. It serves as an introduction to communication and media theory. It seeks to develop the trainees’:

• Understanding of basic issues in communicating research concepts with the public.
• Skills in developing and delivering instructional segments related to biomedical sciences and engineering to public, high school, and undergraduate students.

Instructional Goal: Trainees will gain skills in communicating effectively in environments outside one’s area of specialization, including communication with the media and with diverse stakeholders.

Learning Objectives: By the end of this module, trainees will be able to:

• Write an effective press release*
• Critique press releases and media interviews
• Participate in mock or actual interview with media
• Communicate effectively with the general public and scientific audiences about one’s research
• Evaluate the key steps involved in media and public relations
• Use key communication tools such as press releases to communicate one’s research

Delivery

• Face-to-face classroom
• Electronic discussions
• Role plays
• Mock interviews*

* All collaborative team contributions MUST be acknowledged in all written materials submitted. Note that some of the sessions in this module may be video-taped for instructional purposes only. Draft press releases produced during this module should be discussed with your IRT/supervisor prior to media release.