James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2002

CU1112:03

Communication, Information and Society

Townsville, Cairns

HECS Band 1

13 hours lectures, 26 hours practicals. Semester 2. Internal delivery mode (Townsville campus); flexible delivery (video linkage/WWW) (Cairns campus).

Staff: Mr J Gray, Assoc. Professor P Turnbull.

This subject is a core subject in the BA (Communication). However, it is open to all students, in particular those with an interest in modern communication and the social impact of information technologies. Students will be introduced to current theoretical approaches to the study of communication and information. By select case studies, these theoretical approaches will be critically appraised in terms of their historical origins, cultural peculiarities philosophical implications and effectiveness for investigating problems and issues in these fields.

Learning Objectives:

  1. knowledge of the main theoretical approaches to the study of communication and information;
  2. knowledge of the terminology used in the study of communication and the key concepts of major theories;
  3. a broad understanding of the consequences of change in the practice and technology of communication;
  4. ability to apply theoretical techniques in analysing oral, visual, kinaesthetic modes of communication;
  5. enhance skills in critical reading and written expression.

Assessment by participation in tutorial workshops (20%); written paper (40%); one three-hour examination (40%).