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Special Topics Programs

Communication is a skill and, like any skill, takes practice.

Man at computer

The Alda Center's Special Topics in Science Communication programs allows researchers to practice and refine their communication skills for particular situations and goals.

Explore our collection of live, online special topics programs to find the one that suits your organization's needs.

Explore Available Special Topic Programs

 Live, Online Programs

 

In Person Programming

Courtroom Communication
Full-day program
16-22 participants
(approx.)

Contact us about booking this program.

judge's gavel in front of a stack of law books

Designed for testifying forensic scientists.

Because forensic evidence is complex. Testifying about it doesn't have to be.

This  program helps scientists expand their skills and build strategies to share their knowledge in a courtroom setting. It was designed through a partnership between the Alda Center and the Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science at the University of Dundee, Scotland.

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Make Forensic Science Understandable

Everyone in a courtroom, including the jury, should be able to understand conversations about evidence - especially scientific evidence.

Yet courtrooms are structured, formal places. They're not ideal for talking about science, and the stakes are high.

Both sides in a case are building narratives that often conflict. And experts' answers are often limited by the questions posed.

Forensic experts can make or break a case. They must be prepared to engage with and adapt to their audiences to ensure their answers are accurate - and understandable to all. 

Create a productive conversation. Connect with the jury.
  • Talk about how hard it can be to share science in a courtroom
  • Learn ways to overcome barriers to testifying effectively about forensic evidence
  • Engage with research-driven communication practices to help convey nuance, accuracy, and scientific limitations

Participants are actively involved in the experiential program, including offering and receiving peer feedback. They will learn valuable strategies like analogy building, active listening, language adjustment. They will practice engaging with challenging questions and go through iterative moot court practice with peers.

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Program Partners

Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science logo

Leverhulme Trust logo

A Unique Approach to Communication Training

20,000 people from around the world have worked with us

The Alda Method is a unique combination of social science research, applied improvisation, and communication strategies. It is central to all our programs. 

Our programs help experts build bridges between their knowledge and others to help everyone more fully engage in the wonder and impact of research.