Media training
About the course
Presenting your research through the media is an effective and efficient way to communicate with large audiences. This course provides an ideal introduction to the media and how to use it to promote your science.
The course is tailor-made for scientists working on BBSRC science and follows a bespoke programme created by our media office.
The course is aimed at scientists with limited, or no experience of working with the media, although it can be valuable practice for researchers who have already dealt extensively with the media.
The course is delivered by practising print and radio journalists and has a strong practical flavour. The course provides the opportunity to practise managing the thrills and challenges of a live radio interview without worrying about it being broadcast and will also develop your skill at writing for a general audience.
"I went to the course in London and it was excellent. This is not only a great course but also a really valuable place to make contacts. There were BBC science journalists there who were really interested in our work."
Tutors include 2 of the most likely points of contact for a scientist:
- Experienced BBC science reporters
- Local radio journalists
Dates
- 22 October 2013 – Central London
- 28 November 2013 – Central London
If you are interested in the course, please email your details to press.office@bbsrc.ac.uk.
Who can attend?
"I would recommend this course to all and think it’s great the BBSRC offer such training opportunities. Keep up the good work!"
We provide media training courses free of charge to anyone supported by us, working on a BBSRC grant or based at a BBSRC-funded institute.
Example programme for introduction course
9.15 Introduction
Course outline and introductions
9.35 Introducing the media
How the media works - differences from science; the demands on journalists; what makes a story 'newsworthy'
10.00 Writing for the media
How science becomes a news story; press releases; the daily news conference; the importance of knowing your audience
10.15 Writing practical
Write your own news story
11.00 Coffee
11.15 Introducing radio
How radio differs from print, what radio journalists need in an interview, practical hints and tips for radio (and TV) interviews
11.30 Radio session 1
Interviews with broadcast journalists
13.00 Lunch
13.45 Radio session 2
Interviews with broadcast journalists
15.15 Coffee
15.30 Article analysis
Analysis and feedback on your articles - hints and advice
16.30 Working with the Press Office
Practical hints and tips for working with your press office
17.00 Close
Programme outline is subject to change.
How to register
Complete the application form and return to us. Places are limited.
Application downloads
BBSRC Media Office
press.office@bbsrc.ac.uk
tel: 01793 414694
fax: 01793 413382