Scientists,Communication & the Workplace

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2010:

Students undertaking this subject will be expected to be competent in word-processing and basic library research skills using internet databases.

Students undertaking this subject will be expected to regularly access an internet-enabled computer.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study and reasonable steps will be made to enhance a student’s participation in the University’s programs. Students who feel their disability may impact upon their active and safe participation in a subject are encouraged to discuss this with the relevant subject coordinator and the Disability Liaison Unit.

This subject prepares students for the work environment – whether this is in the field of scientific research, industry or the public sector. It is estimated that managers spend around 60-80% of their daily working lives communicating and therefore a key objective is to provide students with the opportunity to practise and develop skills in this area. In the early stages of the program, however, students will first have the chance to reflect on their personal and career related goals and the type of work environment that may suit them. They will be made aware of the range of competences needed in order to manage the transition into full time employment and, in the process, place into context the technical knowledge and skills that may be required. They will learn how to work in groups and communicate effectively with their peers. They will also learn the essentials of business presentation design and delivery.

• One Group presentation to be delivered in Week 5 (30%)
• Submission of a 2,000 word ‘Learning Log’ in the final week of the program (20%)
• A 2 hour exam scheduled during the normal Semester 1 exam period (40%).
• A Class Participation score (10%)

None.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

At the completion of this subject, students should have an understanding of:
• The range of competences required to operate effectively in a work setting.
• Their broad life goals and career preferences
• The process of self-development
• The principles underlying group design, process and purpose
• The essentials of communication & the importance of clear objectives, right attitudes and skills.
• How to give and receive feedback

At the end of the subject, students should have developed their capacity to;
• Identify individual strengths and areas for development
• Prioritise, meet deadlines and engage in self-directed learning
• Give & receive constructive feedback that aids development
• Work effectively in a group
• Communicate complex ideas in written and oral form
• Design a presentation that is logical, clear and appropriate for a given audience
• Deliver an engaging and persuasive presentation