Evaluating Effectiveness of Science Communication Initiatives

Turn Theory into Impactful Practice

Science communication plays a vital role in bridging the gap between scientific research and society. However, ensuring that communication efforts achieve their intended impact requires a structured approach to evaluation. This course equips participants with the knowledge and tools needed to critically evaluate science communication initiatives, using frameworks and methodologies grounded in both science communication research and the social sciences.

Through a combination of theoretical insights, real-world case studies, and practical exercises, participants will gain the skills to implement effective evaluation strategies tailored to their projects. Additionally, participants will design their own evaluation plan through a combination of assignments and hands-on workshop activities

Key Learning Objectives

• Understand the Fundamentals of Evaluation
  Recognize the role of evaluation in science communication and its importance for improving engagement and impact.
• Apply an Evaluation Framework
  Learn how to define clear objectives and how to design a holistic and measurable evaluation model.
• Differentiate Types of Evaluation
  Identify when and how to use formative, summative, and impact assessment to evaluate Science Communication initiatives.
• Leverage Social Science Methods
  Explore qualitative and quantitative tools, such as surveys, interviews, and focus groups, to evaluate communication effectiveness.
• Collect and Analyze Data
  Gain hands-on experience in designing data collection strategies, interpreting results, and making data-driven decisions.
• Develop a Practical Evaluation Plan
  Apply course learnings in a workshop setting to create a customized evaluation plan for a specific Science Communication initiative

Who Should Register?

All science communication practitioners and researchers, from any scientific field, interested in improving their evaluation competencies.

Instructor

Susana Ambrósio

Susana holds a PhD in Education and a specialization in Science Communication. She has more than 15 years of experience in social sciences research. She has conceived and developed several science communication initiatives, as well as delivered training courses in science communication. Currently, she is a consultant and trainer at Yellow Lemon - Scientific Consulting and Training. Susana is also the Volunteer Coordinator for the Association of Science Communicators.