heiSKILLS certificate - CAS Science Communication Structure and content
The CAS consists of three pillars, which can be completed alongside your studies and one after the other. The preparatory and follow-up self-study in modules 1 and 2 is mandatory. You will receive the literature when you register for the CAS.
Pillar 1 – Basic knowledge of science communication
The basis in Pillar 1 is the eight-hour e-learning module from the National Institute for Science Communication (NaWik), which is completed by a one-day in-person workshop for further study. The basic module teaches the most important fundamentals of good science communication, which are relevant for all scientists, even if they do not want to be directly involved in science communication. Both the e-learning module and the in-depth workshops are offered in two languages (German/English) if required.
Part of the module involves self-study of introductory literature on the topic of science communication before attending the in-depth workshop.
Pillar 2 – Specialization
Pillar 2 of the certificate offers more in-depth and spezialized content. It consists of a compulsory and an elective section (four courses each). In the compulsory section, participants take at least one course each on the topics of strategy, planning and implementation, writing and print, rhetoric and communication, and audio, video and social media. In the elective section, depending on individual preferences and interests, two to four of these topics are explored in greater depth by choosing four additional courses.
Part of the module involves preparatory self-study of literature on the topics covered in the compulsory and elective courses.
Pillar 3 – Practice
In Pillar 3, the knowledge acquired is put into practice: First, a brief planning outline for a practical project is created and then implemented. In a final written reflection, the concept and actual implementation are documented and critically examined.
You are free to choose a suitable format for your practical project (podcast, video, editorial article, etc.) and can present both your own scientific projects—such as your master's or doctoral thesis—and projects by scientists at Heidelberg University.
