Communication and Governance

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2008:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject critically investigates the changing forms of governance in democratic polities in the wake of the informational age. Using communication as a central analytical category, the subject considers how democratic political systems are coping with increasing societal dynamism, diversity and complexity. It explores and critically examines the proposition that contemporary governance is essentially a communications challenge. The types of issues covered include the impact of new ICTs and information systems on political and social patterns, the proliferation of strategic communication practices, the media democracy thesis, democratic deficits and public consultation, and leadership as crisis management. On completion of this subject students should have a critical understanding of key configurations of contemporary governance as communication.

Information Not Available

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

• be able to apply research skills and critical methods to a field of inquiry;

• be able to develop persuasive arguments on a given topic;

• be able to communicate oral and written arguments and ideas effectively and articulately.

Formerly available as 166-481, 166-066 and 166 413 Network Society. Students who have completed 166-481/166-066 or Network Society are not eligible to enrol in this subject.