Alan Alda Science Communication Training

The Alan Alda Science Communication Experience program immerses scientists in the Alda Method, empowering them to adapt new communication skills to a variety of situations.

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About the program

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Over two consecutive days, researchers learn new effective communication skills and strategies.

On day one, participants practice closely attending to verbal and non-verbal communication, setting real and achievable communication goals, and crafting a brief talk for a large audience. On day two, students learn to successfully engage in difficult conversations and practice narrative techniques to share their work and convey its significance.

By the end of the program, participants will be able to:

  • Employ strategies that make messages and information memorable
  • Shift their focus to others; learn to adapt messages to aid another’s understanding
  • Prioritize clarity by minimizing jargon
  • Use evocative language and analogies for maximum impact
  • Apply a strategic communication tool to consider audience, context, challenges, and communication goals
  • Develop, practice, and, with constructive peer feedback, refine a short talk
  • Identify and practice deploying strategies useful for difficult conversations
  • Harness the power of narrative to discuss complex science and research

Eligibility extends to College of Medicine advanced PhD students, post-docs, and faculty.

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Education

Alda Center for Communicating Science

The Alda Center's goal is to help scientists learn to communicate more effectively with the public, including policymakers, students, funders and the media.