Summer School Science Communication: ‘You make impact together with your audience’
Do you want to improve your science communication skills, or are you just taking your first steps in this field? Then the Summer School Science Communication (6–10 July 2026) is what you're looking for. Rachel Plak, researcher at the Institute of Education and Child Studies and one of the organizers, explains why the knowledge gained in this Summer School is so valuable.
This is what you'll learn
Sharing your findings with fellow researchers is important, but making them accessible and understandable for a wider audience matters just as much. That can be quite a challenge, but during the English-taught Summer School Science Communication you will receive practical tools to help you get started or deepen your existing skills.
'During the Summer School, we discuss what science communication is, the theories behind it, and how to apply those theories. Participants will also create a communication product and get the opportunity to expand their network', Plak explains. All scientists from all disciplines are welcome to apply.
This upcoming edition marks the eighth time the Summer School will be held. 'Previous participants tell us they really enjoy immersing themselves fully in the topic, which helped them understand the many facets of science communication much better afterwards.'
The Summer School Science Communication teaches you to see differently
During the Summer School, participants are encouraged to broaden their own frame of reference, whatever their research topic may be. 'By expanding your perspective, it becomes easier to move beyond the role of researcher and become a genuine conversation partner. This allows you to actively participate in the public debate,' says Plak from her own experience.
'And I wouldn’t have been able to make that impact if I had only talked about my work with colleagues.'
What can science communication bring you?
Plak herself has been communicating with the 'general public' about her work for years, for example about her autism research. As a result, she is regularly approached by journalists to share her expertise, collaborates extensively with social organisations focused on autism, and her research insights have also reached the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science.
Her communication with a broad audience has not only made her more visible outside the university, but has also improved her research. 'I receive a lot of responses from people, often because they recognise me from my media appearances. They tell me about their own experiences, which I learn from and which help me broaden my perspective. I can then apply that knowledge in my research.'
The same dynamic is visible in her co‑creative approach: young people are co‑developers, so the communication better aligns with their real, everyday experiences.'
Details Summer School Science Communication
Interested in the Summer School? The programme is now online. On the programme page you will also find practical information, such as participation costs. Registration is open until 29 March 2026.
The Summer School Science Communication is organised by Science Communication & Society (Faculty of Science) and the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences.
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