Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Regardless of the field, role or responsibilities, a vast array of activities in post-university working life require professionals to be able to write, recognise, evaluate and utilise a broad range of written texts. This unit builds on prior theoretical and practical learning and enables students to apply knowledge in the development of a broad range of professional skills in writing and communication. The unit is in three parts. The first part covers the theory, practice and ethics of writing in a professional context. The second part of the unit focuses on the processes that underpin journalistic writing including the role of research, interviewing and practical work in writing news and feature stories. The third part examines a number of other processes and practices of professional writing, and includes activities in writing common professional documents for public audiences such as media releases, fact sheets and online information.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 option in the Communication and Media Studies major sequence
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate knowledge of journalism and professional writing in the context of the media industry.; (2) critically analyse journalism and professional writing practices.; and (3) apply journalism and professional writing skills for content creation..

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) quizzes; (2) journalism and professional writing portfolio 1; and (3) journalism and professional writing portfolio 2. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Katja Lee (00095999)
Unit rules
Prerequisites
COMM1001 Power, Participation and Meaning
or COMM1002 Cultures, New Media and Communications
and
COMM2001 Media Influence
or COMM2002 Digital Media
Contact hours
3 hours per teaching week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.