Course: Risk Communication

A chemical pollution or the introduction of a new technology are examples of situations in which risk communication can play an important role. It is often used with the purpose to inform people, to improve decision-making, to stimulate safer behaviour or to prevent or solve conflicts. Interactive communication and a responsive process are important aspects in generating trust among all those involved; understanding the other actors is a first step.

The aim of the course (outcomes):

On successful completion of the module, participants should:

- have learned from theory and examples how and why risk perceptions vary among different stakeholders, and how risk communication can be build upon this knowledge,

- be able to apply the basics of theories on persuasive communication,

- have a basic understanding of how to write press releases, to choose words, frames, numbers, graphs and risk comparisons, and

- have gained insight in how to ensure a responsive risk communication process.

Teaching

In a classroom setting lectures will be given by various experts from the field.

Special attention will be paid to the possibilities and limitations of risk communication in practice. Through assignments the participants will gain practical experience in risk communication.

The course will be given in English.

List of subjects:

Risk communication: theory; different models of risk communication

Factors determining risk perception (experts vs. general public)

Role of the media (incl. press releases, speaking with reporters)

Participatory processes 

Practice of risk communication and strategies by different actors (such as the general public, NGOs, policy makers and scientists),

Presenting risk information: comparing the effect of different formats (words, numbers, graphs, comparisons, framing)

Theory on influencing behaviour and attitudes

Organised by:

Science Shop, University of Groningen (Dr. H.A.J. Mulder)

Preliminary list of lecturers/tutors:

Henk Mulder (Science Shop, University of Groningen)

F. Woudenberg (Regional Health Authorities (GGD), Amsterdam)

Science Communicators Utrecht University (UU)

Tbc M. Jacobs (Foundation “Leefmilieu” (Living Environment), a Dutch NGO)

a Regulator (such as CTGB, the Board for the Authorisation of Plant Protection Products and Biocides)

a Practitioner (from CBL, the Dutch Food Retail Association)

H. Könemann (formerly RIVM, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment)

N. Lucas Luijckx (TNO Knowledge for Business)

I. van Geest (formerly VWA, Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority)

Examination:

Student participation in the assignments will be assessed, and if deemed sufficient, no formal examination will take place

Duration:          1 week

ECTS credits:   1.5

Period:             11-15 October 2010 (every 2 years)

Fee:                  € 1,000.- (PhD students may apply for the reduced rate of € 250.=)

Location:          IRAS , Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands