Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

In this unit students will be introduced to key concepts in the study of communications, and will be asked to consider the social, cultural, economic and political implications of different communication practices. The unit aims to show that communication permeates everything from everyday domestic routines to large-scale processes of social and cultural change. It is divided into three modules: what is communication and why study it; the role of communications in social and cultural change; communications and everyday life. A central feature of this unit is that students are required to apply concepts and tools from the study of communications to their own everyday experiences.

Objectives

Upon successfully completing this unit, a student will:

1. possess a basic understanding of the field of communications;
2. employ basic concepts in the study of communications;
3. analyze the role of communications in processes of social and cultural change;
4. be able to apply communication analysis to everyday life;
5. be informed about areas of industry and community life where the study of communications is applicable and relevant.

Assessment

Critical review (750 words): 15%;
Essay (2000 words): 35%;
Tutorial presentation, attendance and participation: 10%;
Examination (2 hours): 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Eduardo de la Fuente (Berwick, Caufield, Clayton)/Colin Chasi (South Africa)

Contact hours

1 x 2 hour lecture and 1 x 1 hour tutorial per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Communications

Co-requisites

COM1510

Prohibitions

GSC1901; COM1020