Implementing a Podcast Project to Introduce Introductory STEM Students to Science Communication

Abstract

Science communication skills are increasingly emphasized as an important skill for undergraduate STEM students. In our science communication podcast project, students use the fundamentals of science communication to research a topic related to their inquiry-based lab project. Groups then create a podcast that presents the current science to a general audience. This project has been run in an integrated introductory biology and chemistry course each semester since 2018. Student course evaluations indicate that they enjoy having autonomy over the topic and style of their podcast. Students’ confidence in their science communication skills increased after completion of this multiweek scaffolded project.

Keywords:

• Communication skills
• Instructional strategies
• Integrated/interdisciplinary science
• Science and technology in society
• Summative assessment
• Teaching strategies