Environmental Risk Communication

Risk communication refers to the dissemination of information to the public about health risks and events and encompasses the range of communication skills required through the preparedness, response and recovery phases of a public health event. Risk communication is one of the core pillars of the response to public health risks and plays a vital role in influencing informed decisions and making positive behavior change.

The objective of this course is to improve written and oral communication skills and to provide hands on experience in the art of two-way communication of environmental and occupational issues between scientists and managers, policy makers and the public.

1. Explain the fundamental principles of communication and message development
2. Explain factors that contribute to the public’s perception of risk, compare and contrast the public’s views with scientists’ views
3. Describe techniques for addressing and listening to community concerns
4. Discuss factors and methods for working with the news media on environmental issues
5. Discuss and demonstrate the approach and level of scientific detail for communicating with policy makers
6. Research current issues, assimilate findings, and communicate a conflicting scientific opinion and/or public opinion.
7. Develop written communication skills targeting the public communities, policy makers, and the news media.