Science Enviro Journalism

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

Since Galileo, governments and politicians have attacked or ignored science when its truths are inconvenient. Writing about science, especially in relation to climate change and the environment, is vitally important and challenging in the era of political polarization. This course will cover the basics of reporting and writing about science and the environment. Guest journalists will share how they craft accurate and engaging science journalism for websites, newspapers, television and radio. Visiting scientists will give the students a chance to conduct an interview and try translating the scientists' research into lively copy. Students also will visit a longterm climate change research site and attend hearings on Capitol Hill or at federal agencies so they can witness the current political struggle over science and the environment. This course also will give students experience in pitching stories to a jury of their peers and editing each other's copy. Taught by Elizabeth Shogren who has covered the environment and science for the Los Angeles Times, NPR, High Country News and Reveal from the Center for Investigative Reporting.