Bridging Science and Society

In this MA programme, students learn to analyse the role of knowledge communication in society.

The programme broadly examines how knowledge is created, processed, disseminated, and used, including the effects of knowledge and knowledge communication. Our concept of knowledge encompasses not only knowledge validated by the scientific system but also alternative forms of knowledge and everyday understanding.

Following this approach, knowledge can be generated in many different ways, with data playing a central role. By specialising in computational communication science, students gain expertise in linking large volumes of data and knowledge, and in processing, organising, and interpreting knowledge in the form of data. With its emphasis on highly topical content and computational social sciences, this Master’s programme develops sought-after specialists who are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities.

Plan
© IfK

  • Module 1: Concepts in Knowledge and Science Communication

    This module establishes the theoretical base for further coursework. It adopts interdisciplinary perspectives to examine basic definitions, concepts, and paradigms of knowledge, knowledge communication and science communication, including psychological and sociological perspectives. Additionally, it examines processes of knowledge production and dissemination in various contexts, as well as new forms of digital or cooperative knowledge generation.

    Potential course topics:

    • Introduction to Knowledge and Science Communication
    • Knowledge Production & Society

  • Module 2: Quantitative and Qualitative Methods of Empirical Research

    The module combines two courses on methodological topics relevant to all areas of communication science. Seminars cover quantitative and qualitative survey and evaluation methods, scientific theory, and research logic, establishing a solid foundation for conducting independent research.

    Potential course topics:

    • Multivariate Analysis
    • Network Analysis, Automated Content Analysis, Experimental Research

  • Module 3: Knowledge Transfer

    This module focuses on the forms, goals, conditions, and processes of knowledge transfer in practice. Students engage directly with knowledge through the discussion of concrete projects, initiatives, and organisations that facilitate and promote knowledge transfer, often in collaboration with professionals from the field of communication practice. Topics cover collaborative knowledge production (e.g. citizen science), knowledge processing techniques (e.g. visualisation, exhibitions), and challenges in science-public dialogue (e.g. communication barriers).

    Potential course topics:

    • Evaluation of Science Communication
    • Turning Knowledge into Innovation
    • Knowledge Transfer through Participation: Citizen Science

  • Module 4: Research Module Knowledge and Communication

    Over the course of two semesters, the students design and conduct empirical research projects, compile a scientific project report, and collect and analyse data. This hands-on experience not only lays a crucial foundation for the Master’s thesis and future academic pursuits but also imparts valuable skills in research data processing, time management, team coordination, and project management for a career outside of academia.

    Potential course topics:

    • Diffusion of Scientific Findings
    • New Epistemic Authorities
    • Science Denialism and Science Populism
    • AI-Powered Knowledge Production

  • Module 5: Computational Social Science

    This module takes a closer look at computational methods used for extracting knowledge from digital behavioural traces and analysing the dissemination of knowledge. By delving into topics like machine learning and methods of data transfer, students practice these methods with data sets from the field of knowledge communication. The seminars also offer space for follow-up discussions on legal and ethical questions (i.e. copyright and privacy).

    Potential course topics:

    • Network Analysis
    • Textual Analysis
    • Large Language Models
    • Data Visualisation

  • Modules 6 & 9: Specific Aspects of Knowledge Communication I & II

    These modules offer deeper insights into current developments in the discipline, covering specific procedures and challenges in knowledge communication, as well as advanced methods in communication science research. Our courses deal with specific aspects of the fields of activity (e.g. science communication) and areas of work (e.g. science or data journalism) within knowledge communication, allowing to sharpen the students’ professional profile.

    Potential course topics:

    • Sustainability in and through Science Communication
    • Deep Fakes and Democracy
    • Risk Communication
    • Science Entertainment – Climate Change Fiction

  • Module 7: Processing and Presenting Knowledge

    By analysing different forms of communicative mediation and the roles of individual and organisational actors involved, we broaden our understanding of knowledge processing in scientific organisations (e.g. universities, research institutes), related practices (e.g. scientific publishing), and current trends in digital communication (e.g. the open science movement). Students will deal, for instance, with questions on journalism and editorial research, with a particular focus on data and science journalism.

    Potential course topics:

    • Sustainability Journalism
    • Data Journalism
    • Open Science

  • Module 8: Knowledge and Information Use, Effects and Consequences

    In this module, we focus on users by adopting the perspective of reception and impact research. We explore how usage patterns and conditions have evolved due to the nearly ubiquitous availability of knowledge and data. Therefore, we investigate cognitive, emotional, and behavioural effects that manifest in the short, medium, and long term. Our theoretical tools include approaches from communication science, psychology, sociology, and educational science.

    Potential course topics:

    • Science Communication and Polarisation
    • Information Processing
    • Strategic Disinformation Campaigns: Motivations, Strategies, and Effects
    • Climate Communication and Behaviour
    • The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and Automation

  • Module 10: Master Module

    The MA module in the fourth semester serves to accompany and prepare students for their Master’s thesis. Based on an exposé, students present their topic in a colloquium organised by a supervisor. Together, we discuss questions and issues relating to the structure and design, methodology, theory, and working techniques.

    Potential course topics:

    • colloquium (organised individually by thesis supervisors)

Application and Enrolment

The programme can be started every year in the winter semester, i.e. in October. Information on admission and the application procedure can be found on the Department’s information pages. Each year, 18 students are admitted to the Master’s degree programme in Knowledge and Communication.