Swinburne University of Technology - Melbourne Australia
Future Students - Courses
Duration
Contact Hours
Campus
Prerequisite
Corequisite
1 Semester
3 Hours per Week
Hawthorn
Nil
Credit Points: 12.5 Credit Points
A unit of study in the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts (Media and Communications); Bachelor of Social Science Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology), Bachelor of Multimedia (Media Studies) and an elective unit of study in the Bachelor of Film and Television.
This unit of study is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the ways in which information and communications technologies (ICTs) are changing Australian society. In particular, it focuses on the way in which converged industries and technologies are reshaping the political and economic landscape, thereby impacting on the lives of all Australians. It examines who is driving these changes and who might benefit from them, using a range of techniques drawn from the broad field of political economy. New communications technologies and their applications, such as cable and pay television, interactive television, WebTV, and the Internet, are discussed in terms of their challenges to established systems. The effects of new communications technologies on content, diversity and social needs in Australia are canvassed, as are the cultural implications of electronic communication.
Lectures and Tutorials
Attendance, Media Diary, Essays, Exam
To develop the capacity to analyse and critique a broad range of subject literature and texts. Students should develop skills in critical thinking and argument. To develop a capacity for independent research. A greater awareness of the role of communication practices and processes in our society. That students become technologically literate in broad contexts. That students gain greater confidence in their own ability to use many different forms of media. That students gain greater understanding of important factors governing their lives.
The following topics are covered in this unit of study: New Media and Convergence The Telecommunications Industry. History and Key Concepts Recasting Broadcasting: Broadcasting Models Public Broadcasting Sector: ABC on-line Digital Television Privacy in the Age of Information Australian and the Digital Divide Computer Games and 3G: New Media Versus Old Policy Electronic Culture and the Future The Smart Internet?
The following topics are covered in this unit of study:
Barr, T, newmedia.com.au: The Changing Face of Australia's Communications, Allen & Unwin, 2000.
