Science in Action

4 Credits.

This Residency course takes students to the front lines of scientific research, with a focus on reporting skills, story idea development, and the craft of explanatory writing. Science in Action explores fields beyond medicine and health, including space, environment, energy, climate change, and other topics. The course involves field trips and lab visits, plus video and other links with visiting or out-of-town scientists. Robots and AIs Among Us: This year, students will be immersed in the real-world deployment of robotics and AI systems. Through lab visits, expert conversations, and a collaborative “Build-A-Bot” project (no coding required), students will examine how robots operate inside human systems—from medicine and climate monitoring to public infrastructure and our homes. Rather than treating robotics as abstract technology, the residency emphasizes reporting on embodiment, failure, ethics, and social consequence. The week culminates in team presentations, giving students hands-on experience translating complex, emerging technologies into clear, compelling journalism.This Residency course is held in Washington, Baltimore, or other locations, as announced.