Political Communication

This subject is not offered in 2012.

This subject examines the role of communication systems in the constitution of contemporary political and social life. It pays particular attention to the new modes and means of political communication given the developments in information technologies and global reach. It introduces students to a number of different approaches to the understanding and analysis of political communication in the information age. The subject explores substantive topics such as civic malaise, political marketing, infotainment, political scandal, and media democracy. On completion of this subject, students should have an understanding of a number of the key configurations of contemporary political communication.

• have an informed appreciation of the role of communication in contemporary political and social life.
• have acquired a critical understanding of communication systems in the constitution of social worlds and political action.
• have an awareness of differing approaches to the study of political communication.
• have developed basic analytical skills to evaluate these differing approaches.
• be prepared for further studies in political and social inquiry.

A research essay of 2000 words (50%) due towards the end of semester, and a 2-hour examination (50%) during the examination period.

This subject has a minimum Hurdle Requirement of 75% Tutorial attendance. Students who fail to meet this hurdle requirement will be deemed ineligible to submit the final piece of assessment or sit the final examination. Regular participation in tutorials is required.

Assessment submitted late without an approved extension will be penalised at 10% per working day. In-class tasks missed without approval will not be marked. All pieces of written work must be submitted to pass this subject.

A subject reader will be available for purchase from the University Bookshop.

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

• Bachelor of Biomedicine
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Environments
• Bachelor of Music
• Bachelor of Science
• Bachelor of Engineering

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

• be able to research through the competent use of the library and other information sources, and be able to define areas of inquiry and methods of research in the preparation of essays.
• be able to conceptualise theoretical problems, form judgements and arguments and communicate critically, creatively and theoretically through essay writing, tutorial discussion and presentations.
• be able to manage and organise workloads for recommended reading, the completion of essays and assignments and examination revision.
• be able to participate in team work through small group discussions.