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

This unit examines the interface between scientific knowledge, industry, policy and the general community. Emphasis is placed on the basic theoretical principles of communication and the extension of complex information to non-specialist audiences. Students examine different strategies that are used to raise awareness, educate, change behaviour, communicate about risks and promote new technologies. Students develop their understanding and skills in communication, extension, project management, community consultation, science's role in society, ethical issues and the role of information in achieving change.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) show an awareness of different types of communication strategies that can be employed, depending on objectives; (2) show an awareness of the roles that trust and credibility play in communication; (3) demonstrate an understanding of the methods for evaluating effectiveness of communication campaigns; (4) access scholarly literature and write about communication with reference to that literature; (5) present findings orally to their peers; (6) work effectively in a team to develop a communication strategy and produce a professional consultancy report; and (7) reflect on their learning process.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) needs analysis; (2) consultancy report; and (3) essay. 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)
Associate Professor Steven Maras
Unit rules
Prerequisites
enrolment in
a postgraduate course
Incompatibility
COMM3303/COMM8303 Science Communication for Change in Industry and Community.
SCOM3320 Communication Strategies for Change
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
tutorials/practicals: 1 hour per 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.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • 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.