COMM056 - Key Concepts in Climate Communication

Course Description

In this course, you'll learn how to communicate effectively about climate change and inspire action. Explore key concepts for effective communication, best practices, and guidance from leading climate communication experts and researchers.

Discover how to start and respond to conversations about climate adaptation in ways that mobilize the public and sustain social connection.

Course Outline

In this course, you will:

• Learn communication principles including messaging, audience targeting, and impact
• Examine the latest thinking in the climate communication agenda
• Explore how to mobilize the public through engagement and artful communication content
• Understand how communication shapes every aspect of climate research, action, and activism
• Equip audiences with self-efficacy and participation methods in climate adaptation
• Learn strategies to engage people, change attitudes, and sustain behaviors
• Gain strategic communication skills applicable in various contexts
• Stay updated with climate communication researchers and practitioners

Learner Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Understand communication as a field of knowledge and practice, and appreciate its ethical dimensions
• Explore climate communication as a dynamic and specialized field with its own concepts, challenges, and best practices
• Incorporate concepts of framing, narrative, and visual communication to develop authentic connections with targeted audiences
• Identify climate communication specialists and resource hubs to support ongoing engagement
• Apply basic strategic communication principles to analyze case studies and inform the communication of adaptation projects

Applies Towards the Following Certificates

• Climate Adaptation Fundamentals Micro-credential : Elective Courses
• Professional Communication : Elective Courses