“Lecturers chose such weird papers”: supporting scicomm students' learning transitions

Webber, Amanda; Wilkinson, Clare

Abstract

Threshold concepts (TCs) have been described as ‘a transformed way of understanding, or interpreting, or viewing something without which the learner cannot progress’ (Meyer & Land 2003, p.1). They are transformative and uncomfortable but lead to deeper and, often, irreversible understanding. In 2022, Lewenstein and Baram-Tsarabi highlighted the need for science communication training to achieve key competencies and proposed four TCs, as well as associated learning progressions and communities of practice, which could be of relevance to training. This presentation focusses on research conducted with MSc Science Communication students at the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), UK to identify and verify relevant TCs for our discipline.
Data were gathered in two focus groups and fourteen reflective learning journals. Thematic analysis was conducted, and all four proposed TCs were represented. Students demonstrated a developing critical awareness of science communication models and the need to recognise and engage with multiple publics including acknowledging and incorporating different ways of knowing. They explored challenges and uncomfortable realities when considering how this could be achieved if not part of lived experience. Trust was key and further discussion is needed to understand if this is a separate TC or a part of others. A potential fifth TC for science communication was identified around inclusivity and accessibility.
Learning progressions were identified as an important approach to teaching TCs, with fundamental learning being reinforced throughout the programme. Collaborative approaches encouraged the development of a community of practice as students transitioned from recognising science communication as a way to “share science” to its own discipline. The MSc empowered students by supporting the development of their own identity as a science communicator.
Feeding into the theme of transitions, this presentation will conclude by considering how we can support science communication students navigate through their learning journey.

• Presentation Conference Type: Presentation / Talk
• Conference Name: Public Communication of Science and Technology (PCST) Conference
• Start Date: May 27, 2025
• End Date: May 29, 2025
• Acceptance Date: Dec 18, 2024
• Deposit Date: Jul 23, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 23, 2025
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/14712621