Mission Statement
Philosophies and characteristics of the Communication in Science and Technology Education Program
CoSTEP is committed to producing outstanding science and technology communicators through its original curriculum and staff organization.
Main features of CoSTEP
Two-way communication in science and technology
One-way communication from experts in science and technology to the general public has its limitations. There is a need for “two-way communication” in which experts share the general public’s points of view and talk with them on an equal footing, and for “venues” where people from different backgrounds can participate and communicate with each other. CoSTEP aims to produce individuals capable of creating such venues for two-way communication.
Community-based communication in science and technology
Issues closely related to Hokkaido are chosen as themes for science and technology communication. We also contribute to energizing community-based science and technology communication through cooperation with a host of local organizations such as research institutions, media, governmental organizations, NPOs, NGOs and businesses.
Learning through practical application
We aim at education connecting theory with practice by taking up current issues in the real world. In practices involving content production, students actually engage in practical activities and projects such as radio program and website production or organizing science cafes and other communication events. Through the creation of new venues for communication and this type of content production, students acquire the practical skills required of science and technology communicators.
A well-balanced curriculum in theory and practice
CoSTEP offers a systematic education program integrating theory and practice in a well-balanced manner. In addition to classroom-based lectures and seminars, students also engage in practices and content production to learn through hands-on experience.
Experienced educational staff
In addition to Hokkaido University faculty members, full-time instructors and part-time lecturers from outside the university provide a variety of lessons in CoSTEP. These contributors have substantial front-line experience in areas such as broadcast program production, a range of publishing and editing work, science museum operation and exhibition planning, and various outreach activities.
CoSTEP – a unit collaboratively produced by many
CoSTEP works closely with those in need of science and technology communication.
- We aim to disseminate the benefits and significance of our research to the general public in an easy-to-understand manner.
- We aim to disseminate our technologies and services to consumers in clear, simple terms.
- We want to explain issues related to science and technology to the public. We would like to know their opinions.
- We want to produce attractive events and exhibitions.
- We want to communicate science and technology information accurately and plainly.
- We are interested in science and technology communication.
- We want to make our science classes interesting and easy to understand.
- We want to listen to interesting stories about science and technology.
- We want to know more about science and technology.
- We want to listen to expert’s talk.
- We want to plan an event in science and technology.
- We want to consider science and technology with other people.
* CoSTEP is a special program at Hokkaido University; it is not a regular undergraduate school or a graduate option. Completion of a course at CoSTEP does not mean the acquisition of a degree (bachelor’s or master’s). A certificate of completion will be issued to those who finish a CoSTEP course.
