2016 Beakerhead SciComm Course Description

Science Storytelling
October 19-22, 2016
Jasper, AB

Good writing and storytelling are at the heart of all effective communications. Science communications is no exception. In this four-day intensive workshop, participants will work with a handful of top science writers and editors to develop writing and storytelling skills – along with an edited written piece – through hands-on sessions. Held in conjunction with the Dark Sky Festival in Jasper, Alberta, participants will also learn to write for presentation and to write with visuals and photography in mind. You may have a chance to practice your new skills as part of Dark Sky programming! A draft 750-word article must be submitted three weeks before start date to optimize the use of time in Jasper. Details will be provided along with the registration package.

Faculty members
John Rennie, former editor-in- chief, Scientific American
Nadia Drake, science journalist, National Geographic/Freelance
Jay Ingram, co-founder of Beakerhead, broadcaster and author of 14 books

Beakerhead host
Mary Anne Moser, co-founder and CEO, Beakerhead

Local host
Niki Wilson, science communicator and Content Advisor, Dark Sky Festival

COURSE OUTLINE

PRE-COURSE ASSIGNMENTS

Presenting Science
November 20-23, 2016
Waterloo, ON

Presenting science in a way that is compelling takes skill, courage and creativity. In this four-day intensive, participants will work with the best in the business when it comes to science on stage and screens. With audience-focused presentations, you will learn to adapt your content and approach for both live audiences and more elusive online and television viewers. Held in collaboration with the Perimeter Institute in Waterloo, Ontario, where a massive presentation of science is taking shape as part of Canada’s 150 celebrations, participants will directly interact with experts at this renowned science institute and work on a presentation of their own. A one-minute elevator pitch and the draft of a 10-minute TED-style talk must be submitted three weeks prior to the course to optimize the time with faculty members.

Faculty members
Rob Davidson, television producer, Discovery Channel
Jay Ingram, co-founder of Beakerhead, science broadcaster, writer and presenter
Lindsay Mullan, actor and member of The Second City ensemble

Beakerhead host
Mary Anne Moser, co-founder and CEO, Beakerhead

Local host
Colin Hunter, Director, Communications and Media, Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics

COURSE OUTLINE

PRE-COURSE ASSIGNMENTS

COURSE SCHEDULE

Submit your application today for one of two 2016 opportunities.

Science Storytelling
October 19 - 22
Jasper, AB
This course takes place during the "Dark Sky Festival", so participants have the option to stay an additional night.
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

Presenting Science
November 20 - 23
Perimeter Institute in Waterloo, ON
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

Maximum of 20 participants per course. Registration fee of $2,000 will be required in August to finalize your spot. Accommodation and meals are included in the registration fee. If you are on a short list, we will notify you as openings arise.