Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit explores key issues arising from the rapid change in the international communications environment by examining the cultural, political and social impacts of transformations in communications technologies - from text-based media to the borderless reaches of satellite and the internet. Students will examine e-governance; the impact of cable and satellite television; the use of the internet as a space for dissent during conflicts; computer hacking and cyber-crime, the internationalisation of news coverage and dissemination of information during times of global and local crisis, with particular reference to reporting terrorism and the 'embedded' journalism of war-time.

Objectives

Upon completion of this subject students should be able to demonstrate: 1) A critical understanding of the historical context and critical transformations of communications technologies, and their cultural,political and social effects; 2) A critical understanding of the relationship between the changing nature of communications technologies and the rise of alternative international media; 3) An enhanced ability to recognise the political, social, geographical and cultural factors which impact upon access to and the uses of communication technologies; 4) A critical understanding of the nature and effects of cyber-crime; 5) A critical understanding of the relationship between the development of new communications technologies, in particular the internet, and the changing nature of democratic practice, political participation and dissent; 6) An understanding of the internationalisation of news coverage and the dissemination of information during times of global and local crisis

Assessment

Essay 1 (3500 words): 40%
Essay 2 (2000 words): 40%
Seminar presentation (on-campus students) or Special Topic Essay (2000 words (off-campus students): 20%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Mark Gibson

Contact hours

2 hours (one x 2 hour seminar per week)

Prohibitions

COM5009