In this module we look at the possibilities and opportunities inherent in, and arising from, experts seeking to communicate their specialist knowledge to...

Communicating Knowledge: Possibilities and Opportunities (CPAS0681)

In this module we look at how we communicate specialist knowledge to non-expert audiences. Drawing theory from linguistics, multimodal communication,...

Communicating Knowledge: Possibilities and Opportunities (CPAS0680)

In this module we look at how we communicate specialist knowledge to non-expert audiences. Drawing theory from linguistics, multimodal communication, semiotics, sociology and philosophy, we attend to possibilities and opportunities arising in the sociocultural contexts of communication.  We will examine a range of multimodal texts, such as blogs, videos, newspaper articles, museum exhibitions and podcasts, in order to reflect on the communication strategies used across modes, such as writing, image, video and sound.

This module will support students in developing resources for communicating meaning effectively when adopting the role of mediators of specialist knowledge. How do you explain something intrinsically complicated to people who are not trained specialists?

A key focus is on the presentation of knowledge to the general public – examples include an educationalist explaining matters of policy, a scientist explaining scientific concepts to non-expert audiences, and the effective curation of an art exhibition for public consumption. The module will contrast the communication of knowledge from STEM areas with those in the arts and humanities.

How can we and should we transform specialist knowledge in order to communicate it to non-experts? What is the role of the mediators of knowledge and the possibilities available to them to make meanings and engage with audiences?

The module will incorporate a critical consideration of the concept of expertise and provide an opportunity for students to produce and have discussed their own communicative artefacts in the form of videos/blogs or other creative pieces.

Assessment for this module has two components. First, the production and presentation of an artefact (e.g. poster, video, blog) that communicates knowledge about any topic chosen by the students. Second, an essay which will critically discuss the communication resources chosen in the making of the artefact.