Are you interested in learning about how complex environmental issues are communicated and understood? In ENVSCI 303 we use a variety of case studies in Aotearoa New Zealand and the wider Pacific region to examine how scientific risk and uncertainty are communicated, what influences public understanding and acceptance of information shared, how media and the public play a role.
Society has become increasingly mistrusting of science and decision-makers' abilities to deal with complex environmental issues resulting from changing social and technological pressures. Understanding the nature of science and society is important for recognizing the influence of scientific contributions to complex environmental issues.
This course is an examination of the contemporary topics that shape the ways in which environmental science may be communicated and understood. Using five course themes we consider issues of scientific uncertainty, risk communication, public trust, policy, and the role of media. We also look closely at how science is constructed and how the public engage with science.
We have a diverse team teaching on the course bring a range of views, perspectives, and expertise. Sonia is passionate about Indigenous knowledge and ensuring we value and engage with diverse ways of being, knowing, and doing, particularly using art mediums to communicate concerns around environmental issues. Emma R. is interested in climate change impact on coral and coastal environments and will use this area to explore risk and uncertainty in scientific data throughout the course. While Melanie brings her enthusiasm for exploring and understanding pollution and contamination with a particular focus on soils.
This course is preparation for anyone wanting to progress to a career or postgraduate studies with a focus on the society-environment nexus.