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Centre for the Public Awareness of Science · ANU College of Systems and Society
This course is offered in online mode only. In 2026, the teaching intensive runs 6-10 July. NB: overlaps with S2 2026. Last day to enrol: 1 July. How can humour – and what kind of humour – be used in science communication? What does comic performance offer to understanding the public image and pop cultural narratives of science? What can we learn from comic scientists about science? Humour, this course elucidates, is not only one of the most powerful tools in communication, but it also shapes – and has been shaping – cultural ideas of sciences. The course thus investigates both, the ways science has influenced and generated rich and fascinating comic traditions in popular culture, and how humour and comic performance have shaped cultural ideas of sciences and ‘science humour’. It looks at the exchange between popular entertainment and science in various media (e.g. comics, film, fiction) over the last 150 years and clarifies the power of humour for bringing science and scientists into the general public discussion. This course is part of the teaching, research and engagement activities of the Popsicule, ANU's Science in Popular Culture and Entertainment Hub (https://popsicule.weblogs.anu.edu.au/). The Popsicule explores the cultural meanings of science with the aim to better understand how pop cultural narratives about science have affected the public discourse and understanding of science, and thus our science-society relationship. Note: This course is co-taught with postgraduate students but assessed separately.
Science and Humour Knowledge Quiz
Learning outcomes 1, 2
3min video exploring one of three questions about the links between science, humour and society
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4
Science and Humour project proposal (including methods and literature review)
Learning outcomes 1, 3, 4, 5, 6
Original Science and Humour research project or humour-based science communication product
Learning outcomes 1, 3, 4, 5, 6
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the session including: - Five day online intensive (35 hours) including lectures and interactive online and offline activities. - Approximately 95 hours of self-directed study which will include preparation for lectures, presentations and other assessment tasks. Students will complete assessments (1) and (2) during the week and complete assessment (3 and 4) in the weeks or months after the intensive week. Other Information This course is conducted entirely online. Students are strongly advised not to miss any of the sessions of the one-week intensive component (as the sessions build on each other). System Requirements To participate in this course, you will need: - A computer or laptop. Mobile devices may work well but in some situations a computer/laptop may be more appropriate. - Reliable, stable internet connection. Broadband recommended. If using a mobile network or wi-fi then check performance is adequate. - Webcam. - Speakers/headset and a microphone. - Suitable location with minimal interruptions and adequate privacy for classes and assessments. For more information visithttps://www.anu.edu.au/students/systems/recommended-student-system-requirements
Not required. Two weeks before the course, reading recommendations are given on LMS (these are not compulsory, though). Preliminary Reading The Learning Management System page will be used to suggest some readings.