COM4001

Researching and Writing Australia ( 12 points, SCA Band 1, 0.250 EFTSL)

Leader: Andrew Hassam

Offered:
City First semester 2006 (Day)
City Second semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: The ability to be able to find, use, assess and present information is crucial to those working in the communications industry. This unit focuses on research methods, sources and materials for the study and analysis of Australian society, both past and present. The range of sources studied includes biographical and bibliographical references, newspaper archives, ABS statistics and pictorial images, in both electronic and printed forms.

Objectives: 1. To be able to locate and make use of regular and archival holdings of major research libraries. 2. To be familiar with other relevant source materials. 3. To be familiar with electronic, printed and audio-visual sources. 4. To be able to make appropriate and efficient use of Australian sources within the Communications field. 5. To be able to discuss and write critically about independent research undertaken.

Assessment: 2 x papers (2000 words): 40% + Research essay (5000 words): 50% + Class participation/Seminar presentation: 10%

Contact Hours: 2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week

Prohibitions: COM5001