Why undertake a placement? Exploring the value of short-term work placements for science communication students

Many science communication students in higher education undertake work placements, yet little empirical research has investigated the impact of these. This study explores the extent to which placements enable students to practice skills developed on their course and learn new ones. It also considers the impact of placements on students’ ability to secure paid work and the relative merits of short- and long-term placements. The results of an online survey aimed at students who undertook a Master’s in Science Communication at a UK university are presented here and analysed through the lens of science communication learning objectives. Findings from the survey, completed by 62 eligible participants, indicate short-term placements enable students to practice key skills taught on courses, including the ability to adapt communications to different audiences, and develop new digital skills, including in the use of specific online software. Short-term placements also shift students’ self-identity, so they consider themselves professional communicators to a greater degree. Short-term placements, of just a few weeks, appear to offer the same benefits as long-term placements while more effectively enabling students to navigate time and financial pressures. The findings contribute to understandings of the relationship between formal education and work-based learning in higher education.