units

ATS3645

Faculty of Arts

Monash University

Undergraduate - Unit

This unit entry is for students who completed this unit in 2014 only. For students planning to study the unit, please refer to the unit indexes in the the current edition of the Handbook. If you have any queries contact the managing faculty for your course or area of study.

print version

6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL

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

LevelUndergraduate
FacultyFaculty of Arts
Organisational UnitJournalism
OfferedCaulfield Second semester 2014 (Day)
Caulfield Second semester 2014 (Off-campus)
Coordinator(s)Dr Deb Anderson

Notes

Previously coded JCS3603

Synopsis

This unit provides students with a thorough, critical introduction to the quantitative and qualitative methodologies of research in the social sciences for journalistic purposes, with an emphasis on computer-assisted research. Topics covered include introductory statistics, accessing and using databases in Australia, Europe and North America, archival and documentary research, memory and oral history, analysis of financial statements and company records, epidemiology, focus groups and interviewing.

Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit students should be able to

  1. demonstrate a superior knowledge and critical capacity to make effective usage of a range of social science research methodologies
  2. demonstrate an advanced ability to use, discuss and analyse research and methodological techniques and approaches in a clear, concise and rigorous way
  3. collaborate constructively with fellow students in learning and discussion processes, including online forums
  4. produce their written work to deadline making effective use of the conventions of scholarly presentation (references, bibliography, etc)
  5. work independently and in groups to achieve their learning outcomes
  6. demonstrate a critical awareness of the strengths, limitations and socio-professional implications of scientific research practices for journalism

Assessment

Minimum requirement: attendance and participation as specified in the Unit Guide for the mode of delivery.
Minor project (1500 words): 30%
Class presentation and report (500 words): 20%
Major project (2500 words): 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Workload requirements

1-hour lecture per week + 1-hour tutorial per week

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

Prerequisites

Prohibitions

ATS2645