The future of communications
Jenny Hocking
8 or 12 points
* One 2-hour seminar per week
* First semester
*
City/Clayton
* Prerequisite: It usually is expected that students will have
undertaken COM4002/COM5002
Objectives On completion of this subject students are expected to have an understanding of contemporary developments in communications in Australia; the ability to critically assess the social, cultural and political impacts of these developments; and an awareness of the policy choices available in determining the future of communications.
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%
Preliminary reading
Cunningham S and Turner G (eds) The media in Australia: Industry, texts, audience Allen and Unwin, 1993
Green L J and Guinery R (eds) Framing technology: Society, choice and change Allen and Unwin, 1994
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