CU2013:03
History of Communications
Townsville
HECS Band 1
13 hours lectures, 26 hours practicals. Semester 2.
Staff: Assoc. Professor P Turnbull, Dr R McGregor, Mr J Gray.
This subject surveys the history of communication and information technologies from the ancient era of world history to the present day. Topics to be explored include information creation, management and transmission in the ancient and medieval world; the origins and cultural meanings of print in early modern Europe; authorship, book consumption and political change in the 18th century; western information technologies in 19th century colonial contexts; the evolution of the popular press; the social uses of telegraphy; radio broadcasting; the early history of television; the social history of the computer.
Learning Objectives:
- provide students with a critical understanding of major events, ideas, concepts and theoretical perspectives on the history of communication and information technologies;
- enhance skills in historical analysis and critical thought;
- enhance skills in written communication.
Assessment by tutorial participation (20%); written assignment (40%); examination (40%).