Linguistics and science communication

There is a growing interest in and a growing need for accessible and available presentation of scientific research and insights. According to linguistic-TikToker Simon Meier-Vieracker (Dresden), linguistics is in an ideal situation for science communication: (i) Everyone uses language and has some opinion on language and language use. This makes it easy for most people to relate to linguistic topics. (ii) There are many freely accessible tools and resources that make it possible to put interesting content together quite easily, and to empower the audience to start their own linguistic exploration.

The aim of this class is to produce material for various science communication scenarios (such as short videos for platforms like youtube, material for projects in a secondary school classroom, or material for information talks addressing adults). 

In the course, participants will get some theoretical background on science communication. We will evaluate existing science communication products and initiatives on linguistic topics - including TED talks, Science Slam contributions, popular science books and others. We will identify possible science communication settings, as well as topics on which the students have some background from previous linguistics courses or that seem to be of interest for the intended target group. 

In addition to the regular weekly meetings of the whole course from November 4 on, groups are expected to have a number of individual meetings with the instructor to discuss their projects.