Graduate Economics

Learning Objectives:

Students will develop the ability to communicate and convey empirical economic research to a variety of audiences, including policymakers, journalists, and to the general public. The focus is on transferring academic insight into clear, compelling narratives that inform and influence real-world decision-making. By the end of the course, students will be able to:
(a) Translate empirical research into accessible, practice-oriented communication.
(b) Create and present scientific policy briefs and engaging multimedia communication formats.
(c) Collaborate in teams to present academic evidence to a wider audience.

Content:
This course offers hands-on training in translating complex economic research into engaging, non-technical formats for diverse audiences. Students will practice how to:
(a) Write and present in a clear and relatable way using current topics in economic policy.
(b) Use digital communication tools, e.g., podcasts, infographics, and short videos.
(c) Gain insights into professional knowledge transfer through excursions and guest sessions with experts from leading research and policy institutions — including DIW Berlin, WZB Berlin Social Science Center, journalists and public stakeholders.
(d) Experiment with different storytelling formats and visualization techniques.

Through a mix of lectures, practice sessions, and excursions, students will acquire both the theoretical understanding and the practical toolkit to bridge the gap between research and society. This course is about learning how to make knowledge matter, in the media, in policymaking, and in public debate.