Undergraduate - UnitATS2391 - A world of sport: Culture, communities and communication

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered, or view unit timetables.

Notes

Synopsis

This unit studies sport in international and Australian contexts as a global phenomenon. Australia's role in organisations like the Olympic Games movement (IOC), the role of sport in different communities and culture, 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.

Outcomes

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.

Assessment

On-Campus:
Research essay (2000 words): 40%
Research proposal (500 words): 10%
Short essay (1000 words): 20%
Seminar and fieldwork participation: 10%
Class test (one hour): 20%

Off-campus:
Research Essay (2000 words): 40%
Participation in on-line discussion: 10%
Research proposal (500 words): 10%
Short essay (1000 words): 20%
Take home test (1000 words): 20%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Tom Heenan

Contact hours

Three hours per week One two hour lecture and one one hour seminar

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

Sociology
Australian studies
Journalism studies

Prohibitions

ATS3391