Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Prerequisite: It usually is expected that students will have undertaken COM4002/COM5002 + City
Synopsis This subject is organised largely through a series of case studies which illuminate critical issues in the future of Australian communications. These include the fate of AUSSAT, the publishing industry, telecommunications and privatisation, the pay-TV debate, foreign ownership of the media, the concentration of media ownership, and possible changes to the roles of the ABC and SBS. The subject also examines the interrelationships between media, telecommunications and technological convergence as well as policy issues concerning ownership, diversity, access and national identity.
Assessment (8 points) Long essay (4000 words): 50% + Two seminar papers (1000-1500 words each): 20% each + Seminar participation: 10%
Assessment (12 points) One long investigative essay of 5000 words written on a case study: 50% + Two seminar papers of 1500-2000 words: 20% each + Seminar participation: 10%