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 is designed to equip students with skills in the communication of economics. Economists view the world through several different lenses. This, in turn, is often a source of disagreement amongst economists and economic policy advisers. Disagreement within the profession often allows non-economists to dismiss or criticise economics and disregard contributions made by economists to economic debates. Fundamentally, economics is a way of thinking. It offers a powerful framework to help identify trade-offs and policy interventions. To engage in economic debate and influence policy makers, it is critical that economists know how to talk about models, present facts and figures, and distinguish facts from opinion. In this unit you will learn how to communicate economics to a wide range of audiences, including policy makers, politicians and other with no training in economics. Students will learn how to write policy briefs, to use visual tools, and to deal with the media. They will gain insight into how effective communication can be used to influence stakeholders and create change. The instruction will be via a series of guest lectures followed by reflection workshops and through several group and individual assignments.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) understand the importance of effectively and professionally communicating economic ideas; (2) explain (write, visual, oral) complex topics in economics in ways that are accessible to non-economists; and (3) use their training in economics to engage in public debates, with the ability to distinguish between and communicate the normative and positive economic elements of the debate.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) reflection; (2) assignments (Group); and (3) individual communications exercise. 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 Luciana Fiorini
Contact hours
seminars: 3 hours 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.