CRWR 14012/34012
Knowledge journalists cover complex topics for a general audience, informing their coverage with current research findings, often infusing it with advocacy. They have been praised for bringing intelligent focus to vital issues and criticized for oversimplifying or misusing science. We will study the knowledge journalists with an eye to practicing and perfecting the craft, both in the synthesis of research and the execution of eloquent writing. Students will choose a field of expertise that regularly contributes to news (such as the sciences, health, economics, technology, energy, the environment, etc.) and practice translating current research into language accessible and enjoyable to a lay audience. (2017-18)