Interfaces of Global Change Fellows complete a course of choice that teaches science communication skills. The most popular elective course is “Communicating Science” GRAD 5144, taught by the Center for Communicating Science at Virginia Tech. This course is capped at 18 students and is highly participatory, using theatre improvisation games and exercises as well as writing to help students become more effective at distilling their research and communicating it to non-specialist audiences. A focus on relaxation and deep listening helps participants make their communication more personal, direct, spontaneous, and responsive. The course provides opportunities for students to present their research to public audiences.
