IAO Media Academy

Contact Us

imperialasonechairs@imperial.ac.uk

The Imperial As One Media Academy (IAOMA) offers expert media training for minority ethnic staff and students. The initiative is a collaboration between the College Communications team and Imperial As One, and is funded and supported by the EDI Centre.

Training overview

The Imperial As One Media Academy offers skills development in professional writing, handling journalist interviews, and influencing policy. You also learn practical skills in podcasting, video and using social media to engage with your audience.

Each session will take approximately half a day.

Cancellations

Those enrolling on IAOMA are expected to attend all the sessions of the programme. If you cannot attend any session of the programme, you must email equality@imperial.ac.uk as soon as possible.

If a cancellation is made less than ten working days before the programme start date, a cancellation fee of £100 will be levied.

If you miss one session as a delegate, a £50 charge will be levied, but you can stay on the course and complete the other sessions. If you miss more than one session, a £150 charge will be levied, and you will be taken off the programme, and will have to re-enrol next year unless agreed with the training organiser.

Cancellation fees do not apply in cases of extenuating circumstances.

Column Block 1-3

Media training for journalist interviews

Build the confidence and skills you need to become a key media player/communicator.

You will learn:

  • About the media landscape for science stories
  • Communicating your key messages in media interviews
  • Handing sensitive questions
  • Ensuring interviews are about your research and not your race

The session includes a panel discussion on working with Imperial's press office. You will also have a chance to practice your interview technique.

Social media

Learn how to get the most out of social media in a personal-professional setting: from which platforms to choose and cut through the noise to positioning yourself as an expert and staying safe online.

  • What is social media (really)?
  • The platforms and what they are for
  • Managing the information overload
  • Trolls and other undesirables
  • How to post better and become an influencer

The session includes a panel discussion featuring the experiences of senior academics with social media.

Powerful words

Gain skills in crafting powerful words to carry your messages to a wide range of audiences. Learn how to translate your science into news articles, blog posts and editorials/opinion pieces.

In this session, you will learn:

  • How to write good copy
  • The different types of writing formats
  • What journalists and editors look for in commentaries and opinion pieces

You will also be set a practical writing task and get feedback from the trainer at the end of the session.

Col 4-6

How to use Video

The ubiquity of smartphones means anyone can make a video, but how can you make the best video and use it to promote your research?

In this session you will learn:

  • What to consider before filming
  • Simple technical tricks to get the best shots
  • How to plan and edit a video
  • What equipment you can use to enhance your video

You will also practice filming a short video clip of yourself and get feedback from the instructor.

Introduction to Podcasting

Whether you are interested in appearing on podcasts or have had an idea for starting one yourself, they are an excellent way to reach a dedicated audience and demonstrate your expertise.

In this session you will learn:

  • The benefits of appearing on and creating podcasts
  • How podcasts are put together
  • Key considerations when starting a podcast
  • Interview techniques
  • How to get involved with the Imperial College Podcast, and what support the College can offer

You will also have the chance to test your interviewer and interviewee skills and receive a list of resources for podcasting. 

Public affairs and policy

The Forum training session aims to demystify government and Parliament by explaining how to engage successfully with policymakers. During the session, you will:

  • Gain an improved understanding of the governmental landscape and key players.
  • Hear about the policymaking process.
  • Learn practical tips for engaging with Parliament and the Civil Service.