A practical, hands-on course that teaches animal care professionals at every level how to communicate welfare efforts, research insights, and daily animal care in clear, engaging, scientifically accurate ways. Participants learn to translate complex information into messages that build trust, demonstrate impact, and strengthen internal and external communication.
Includes: Communication templates, storytelling frameworks, real examples, and practice tasks tailored to your organization.
Description:
Effective science communication is essential for showcasing animal care, building public trust, and ensuring that welfare work is accurately understood by colleagues, leadership, and the community. This course takes the guesswork out of messaging by teaching participants how to turn observations, data, and welfare improvements into stories that resonate. Through practical examples and guided exercises, staff learn how to communicate across audiences—from internal updates to public-facing content, media interactions, and community outreach.
Who it’s for:
All staff in zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries, shelters, research institutions, and animal care organizations—including keepers, educators, vet techs, curators, leadership teams, and communications staff.
Key Takeaways:
- How to turn behavioral observations and welfare findings into clear, shareable messages
- Strategies for communicating effectively with colleagues, managers, and leadership
- How to design science-informed narratives for the public, donors, and visitors
- Best practices in writing, visual storytelling, presentation design, and social media
- Techniques to connect frontline staff insights with high-level messaging
- How to ensure science is accurate without oversimplifying
When, Where & How:
Duration: Flexible, multi-part series. Self-paced modules + optional Q&A and office hours.
Frequency: One-time workshop, quarterly offering, or recurring training series
Format: Virtual (Optional in-person facilitation available).
Levels:
Introduction: Foundations of Science Communication
A beginner-friendly overview of how to turn animal care observations and welfare insights into clear messages. Participants learn the basics of evidence-based storytelling, the difference between internal vs. external messaging, and how to write or speak with clarity and confidence. Ideal for staff new to communication roles or hesitant about writing or presenting.
Advanced: Media, Outreach & Building External Connections
This level focuses on expanding your organization’s reach outside its walls. Participants learn how to:
- Pitch stories to local and national news outlets
- Write short pieces for magazines, blogs, and professional publications
- Build relationships with journalists, university partners, and communications teams
- Work with media to highlight welfare initiatives accurately
- Prepare quotes, talking points, and press-friendly summaries
- Develop a proactive outreach strategy that positions your organization as a trusted expert
Pricing:
- Individual and group rates available
- Discounts for multiple enrollments or group registrations
Why this matters:
Strong science communication turns animal care work into impact. When staff know how to share evidence clearly:
- Welfare initiatives become visible and valued
- Teams communicate more consistently across shifts and departments
- Leadership can make better, data-driven decisions
- The public gains trust in your care, welfare, and mission
- Donors and funders understand the value of investing in your work
- Journalists and partners view your organization as a credible, transparent expert
Good communication is one of the most powerful welfare tools available—because it turns care into understanding, and understanding into support.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Review and coaching on real materials (social posts, signage, reports)
- Practice filming short interviews, elevator pitches, or media bites
- Development of a custom messaging guide for your team
- Shadowing/mentorship on writing press releases or pitching stories
Earn Your Certification
Participants who complete all course components—including lessons, practice exercises, and the final applied assessment—receive an Animal Wellbeing Solutions Certificate of Completion.
This certificate is professionally endorsed by Animal Wellbeing Solutions, verifying that the participant has demonstrated competence in the skills taught in the course (e.g., behavioral observation, welfare assessment, emotional indicators, etc.).
How It Works
- Complete the course modules (video lessons, readings, or workshops).
- Submit the required assignments or assessments—usually a short observation exercise or applied project.
- Receive instructor feedback confirming successful completion.
- Download your personalized AWS-endorsed certificate directly from the course portal or receive it via email.
What You Can Do With It
- Add it to your resume or CV under Certifications or Professional Development
- Upload it to LinkedIn and other professional profiles
- Present it to your organization or supervisor as evidence of training
- Use it to support applications for internships, promotions, or advanced responsibilities
Why It Matters
An AWS-endorsed certificate signals that the participant has been trained through a science-based, welfare-focused, and industry-relevant program. It demonstrates initiative, applied skills, and a commitment to high-quality animal care—making it meaningful for hiring managers, graduate programs, and professional development evaluations.
