AUS3015 - A world of sport: Culture, communities and communication

Leader: Dr Tom Heenan

Offered

Caulfield First semester 2008 (Day)
Gippsland Second semester 2008 (Day)
Peninsula First semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit studies sport in international and Australian contexts as a global phenomenon. Australia's involvement in organisations like the Olympic (IOC) and Commonwealth Games movements, the role of sport in different communities and cultures, also representation and the media, government, politics and professionalism, regulation, sporting communities and public policy. An understanding of sporting traditions and the construction of identity and heritage. The significance of places, stadiums and territory, gender, regional diversity and equity and social opportunity. Students undertake a special industry study with emphasis on theoretical concerns and research techniques

Objectives

Upon successful completion of the unit students will be able to demonstrate:

1. An understanding of different theories of society, individual and group identity and of sport.
2. A critical understanding of key issues in the study of international sport, including the complex interplay between social ideals and aspirations and commercial, political, developmental and individual concerns.
3. An understanding of different institutional, developmental and community concerns in selected sporting traditions and institutions.
4. A critical and comparative understanding of Australia's contribution to international sport and exchange.
5. An ability to critically evaluate the role of allied activities, including the media, in the development and representation of sport. An ability to develop methodological research techniques to inform theoretical concerns in industry studies.
6. An ability to conduct independent research and to document and communicate findings.
7. Improved skills of independent and critical thinking, English language, and written and oral communication.
8. An ability to develop research techniques to inform theoretical concerns in industry studies.

Assessment

Research essay (2150 words) : 48%
Short essay 1 (900 words) : 20%
Seminar and fieldwork participation (Equivalent to 450 words) : 10%
Examination (1000 words) : 22%

Contact hours

Three hours per week

Prohibitions

AUS2015