The Contemporary Publishing Industry

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2010:

This subject provides an overview of the major factors affecting the local and global production, marketing and distribution of books, magazines and electronic publications. It considers the impact of political, social and economic conditions, technological changes, and changing industry practices. Students will gain a critical understanding of professional practices and current issues in various sectors of the industry in the context of global developments.

• have an extensive understanding of the appropriate and accurate use of English, both in textual editing and in communication with authors;
• have been introduced to standard publishing protocols for establishing consistency of usage and conformity with house styles, using both manual and digital methods;
• have developed an understanding of the process of language change and its implications for editorial practice; and
• be familiar with the roles and responsibilities of editors and publishers at each stage of the publishing process.

A subject reader will be available.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

• acquire high-level written and oral communication skills through contribution to class discussions and the completion of assignments;
• have a capacity for effective teamwork through group discussions and peer review;
• develop cultural and ethical understanding through reflection and reading onthe role of the publishing industry in a range of different national and cultural contexts;
• develop skills in research through the preparation of class papers and assignments, including the use of online as well as print-based materials;
• develop skills in time management and planning through managing workloads for recommended reading, tutorial presentations and assessment requirements;
• acquire a capacity for critical thinking through the use of readings and discussion to develop a critique of received wisdom about the cultural, social and political significance of the publishing industry; and
• develop a capacity for theoretical analysis through engagement with a range of texts that offer innovative perspectives on publishing as a component of the wider field of cultural practices.