Teaching code

4S012018

Academic staff

Luca Ciancio, Fedra Alessandra Pizzato

Coordinator

Luca Ciancio

Credits

3

Also offered in courses:

• Science communication of the course Bachelor’s degree in Humanities

Language

Italian

Scientific Disciplinary Sector (SSD)

NN - -

Period

CuCi 2 A, CuCi 2 B

Erasmus students

Not available

Courses Single

Not Authorized

Lessons timetable Moodle Seminars 0

Learning objectives

By the end of the course, students will have developed:
- a critical understanding of the relationship between science, culture, and society;
- the ability to read and analyze the languages and forms of scientific communication;
- awareness of the ethical, political, and narrative dimensions of science;
- public communication skills applicable to journalistic, museum, educational, and digital contexts;
- a reflective and participatory approach to scientific citizenship.

Prerequisites and basic notions

No prior knowledge required

Program

This course examines the relationship between science, culture, and society through a historical and critical perspective that connects past developments with contemporary issues. Students engage with the languages and practices of science communication while reflecting on the ethical, political, and narrative dimensions of knowledge production and circulation. The course combines theoretical frameworks with practical activities to strengthen analytical and public communication skills. Its aim is to foster an informed understanding of science’s role in the public sphere and in contemporary citizenship.
The course is organized around two main thematic strands, integrating historical perspective with contemporary issues.
Strand 1 — Science, culture, and contemporary society
- Understanding the role of science in public debate;
- Analyzing the languages and formats of scientific communication (journalism, social media, museums, fiction);
- Key topics include: genetics and identity; medicine and the body; sustainability and climate crisis; artificial intelligence and algorithms; ethics of technology;
-Practical exercises involving the analysis and rewriting of texts and multimedia materials.
Strand 2 — History and philosophy of science communication
- Science as a social narrative: from the seventeenth century to the age of misinformation;
- Authority and representation: changing images of the scientist;
- Trust, truth, and consensus in the construction of public knowledge;
- Historical and contemporary models of science communication: limits, potentials, and legacies;
- The humanistic dimension of science: ethics, responsibility, and imagination.

Bibliography

Didactic methods

Teaching methods
The course adopts an active and participatory learning approach, including:
debates on scientific and technological controversies;
brainstorming sessions and collective discussions;
analysis of case studies and real-world science communication materials;
critical and intersectional reflection on the cultural and social implications of science;
public philosophy activities and writing and storytelling workshops.
No prior scientific background is required. Activities focus on analysis, interpretation, and the collective construction of meaning.

Learning assessment procedures

Assessment:
Active participation and contributions to discussions: 25%
Practical exercises and group work: 25%
Final science communication project (individual or collaborative): 50%
The final project (50%) consists of developing a communication proposal (text, video, podcast, mini-campaign, etc.) that applies the theoretical knowledge and argumentative skills developed during the course.

Evaluation criteria

Assessment criteria
Assessment is based on the quality of critical engagement, active participation, and the ability to apply theoretical and communication tools. Evaluation will consider:
Participation and contribution to discussions
Ability to engage thoughtfully and respectfully, demonstrating preparation and active listening.
Critical analysis
Ability to interpret texts, case studies, and science communication materials, recognizing their cultural, ethical, and social implications.
Communication skills
Clarity of expression, argumentative coherence, and the ability to adapt language to audience and context.
Collaboration and group work
Constructive participation, idea sharing, and responsibility in collective activities.
Final project
Originality, conceptual rigor, communicative effectiveness, and integration of theoretical and practical tools developed during the course.

Exam language

Italiano (inglese o spagnolo a richiesta)