Editorial English

Subject PUBL90002 (2013)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2013.

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 9 (Graduate/Postgraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject is not offered in 2013.

Time Commitment: Contact Hours: 2
Total Time Commitment:

120

Prerequisites:

Admission to the postgraduate certificate or diploma in Publishing and Communications, Master of Publishing and Communications, Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Communications

Corequisites:

None

Recommended Background Knowledge:

None

Non Allowed Subjects:

None

Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry.

The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Contact

Emmett Stinson

stinsone@unimelb.edu.au

Subject Overview:

This subject focuses on the key communication skill of editing. It introduces students to the linguistic conventions of editorial English, the use and interpretation of copy-editing symbols, and the parameters of a variety of house styles. Students will also learn the principles and practice of editing on screen and the procedures required to ensure editorial transparency and accountability in an electronic environment. The subject offers an overview of the major components of the editing process, with an emphasis on editing for consistency and cohesion. On successfully completing this subject, students will have a sound grasp of the linguistic and procedural aspects of copy-editing.

Objectives:
  • have high-level written and oral communication skills through contribution to class discussions, the completion of exercises and assignments, wide reading on issues of contemporary English usage, and exposure to the protocols of editorial practice;
  • have a capacity for effective teamwork through group discussions, collaborative exercises and involvement in author/editor negotiations;
  • have cultural and ethical understanding through reflection and reading on issues of inclusive and non-discriminatory language and the ethical responsibilities of the editor; and
  • have information technology literacy and understanding of information management through participation in computer laboratory sessions and completion of exercises and assignments.
Assessment:

A manual editing assignment of 1500 words 30% (due mid-semester), a 1-hour copy-editing class test totalling 2000 words 30% (due late in semester), a copy-editing assignment of 1500 words 30% (due in the examination period), and participation in workshop discussions 10%. Students are required to attend a minimum of 80% (or 10 out of 12) classes in order to qualify to have their written work assessed. Any student who fails to meet this hurdle without valid reason will not be eligible to pass the subject. All required written work must be submitted in order to pass the subject. Essays submitted after the due date without an extension will be penalised 2% per day. Essays submitted after two weeks of the assessment due date without a formally approved application for special consideration or an extension will only be marked on a pass/fail basis if accepted.

Prescribed Texts:
  • A subject reader will be available
  • AusInfo Style Manual
  • Macquarie Concise Dictionary
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:
  • have acquired skills in research, including the use of online as well as print-based materials in the course of exercises and assignments;
  • have acquired skills in time management and planning through managing workloads for recommended reading, tutorial presentations and assessment requirements; and
  • have a capacity for critical analysis through close engagement with a wide range of texts.
Related Course(s): Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing
Postgraduate Certificate in Arts (Editing and Communications)
Postgraduate Diploma in Arts (Editing and Communications)
Related Majors/Minors/Specialisations: 150 Point Master of Publishing and Communications
200 Point Master of Publishing and Communications

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