Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - BPK 420 D100

Selected Topics in Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology I (3)

Real-World Skills: Science Communication to Div

Class Number: 6383

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Tue, Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    To be announced in the Undergraduate Schedule of Classes and Examinations found at go.sfu.ca.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Selected topics in areas not currently offered as formal courses within the undergraduate course offerings in the Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology. The topics in this course will vary from term to term, depending on faculty availability and student interest.

COURSE DETAILS:

COURSE DESCRIPTION: 

This course teaches students how to communicate science to different audiences, including children, lay adults, undergraduate students, and scientists. Students will learn principles of data visualization, infographic design, written communication, and oral presentation skills. Prerequisites: 75 credits or higher and a major/minor in any Faculty of Science department. 

MODULES: 

  1. Storytelling in science 
  1. Data visualization 
  1. Visualizing scientific concepts and messages for different audiences – infographics 
  1. Changing behaviours/beliefs (i.e., how to make a persuasive argument) 
  1. Written communication 
  1. Oral presentations and slide design for different audiences 

FORMAT: 

Mix of in-person (majority) and Zoom (minority) classes, 2 x 2hrs/week. 

OTHER INFORMATION: 

Some classes will run over Zoom and thus, a computer and internet connection are required. Details provided in class. 

There are NO required textbooks for this course.  

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

At the end of this course, students should be able to… 

  1. Identifybest practices for written, oral, and visual communication of science 
  2. Apply different techniques to visualize data based on its type and the purpose
  3. Design effective, audience-appropriate infographics
  4. Articulate the importance of a scientific article to the lay public
  5. Tailor oral presentations to different audiences

 

Grading

  • Data visualization assignment 25%
  • Infographic assignment (2) 35%
  • Science blog assignment 15%
  • Oral presentation 25%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Access to reliable highspeed internet. Microphone for asking questions and participating in Zoom classes.

REQUIRED READING:

Based on assignment(s).

RECOMMENDED READING:

None.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

It is the responsibility of the student to keep their BPK course outlines if they plan on furthering their education.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.