Communication for information systems
H Smith
4 points * 3 hours per week * Second semester * Caulfield * Prerequisites: SYS1252 and word processing skills * Prohibitions: BUS2030, CSC1040, CSC1050, MGM1900
Information systems professionals need to communicate their knowledge clearly to a range of audiences. This subject is a specialist subject which attempts to develop communication skills in an information systems context but will also improve the student's general communication skills. Students will be required to take an active role in developing their communication skills. They will be offered facilities to support their efforts, particularly in editing and evaluating their own development. These facilities will include videotaping some of their work. Topics: communications events in information systems work; analysis of the audience(s) for these communications. Written presentation of material: styles of writing; preparing the content; presentation formats; document editing - techniques for finding and correcting errors in written work. Interviewing techniques: styles of interviews, roles of interviewee, fitting the style to the purpose of the interview, verbal communication, non-verbal communication, listening skills and recording skills. Oral presentation techniques: styles of oral presentation, editing the presentation, speaking skills.
Assessment
Examination (2 hours): 25% * Practical and laboratory work: 75%
Prescribed texts
Galvin M and others Business communication: Strategies and skills 4th edn, Holt Rinehart and Winston, 1992
Strunk W and White E B The elements of style 3rd edn, Macmillan, 1979