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

The aim of this unit is to assist students to enter the workforce with a set of well developed generic skills required of new graduates, including skills in oral and written communication; time and information management; professional behaviour and interpersonal skills; and project management. The focus is on developing these skills through workshops and seminars in which students work individually, in pairs and in small groups. A major focus of the unit is working within small teams to develop a project plan allowing the development and application of interpersonal skills and group dynamics. The academic objectives of the unit are to provide students with principles and theory of professional communication; development and application of professional written and oral communication skills and the theory and practice of project planning.

Credit
6 points
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) identify the key components of professional practice; (2) discuss the principles of communications; (3) critique the use of different communication channels in different professional contexts; (4) understand the principles of group dynamics; (5) identify key elements of project planning; (6) identify effective time management techniques and resource allocation; and (7) demonstrate information literacy and ability to access resources (people, information) (8) apply project planning principles and procedures; (9) plan and undertake an effective interview; (10) demonstrate an ability to work in teams to produce an outcome; (11) apply skills in active listening; (12) demonstrate effective written communication skills; (13) demonstrate effective oral communication skills; (14) demonstrate professional behaviour; and (15) develop a self-directed learning philosophy.

Assessment

This comprises a case study (30 per cent), group project (40 per cent) and test (30 per cent).



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

Unit Coordinator(s)
Ania Stasinska
Unit rules
Prerequisites
PUBH1101 Public Health
and PUBH2202 Public Health and Health Care Systems
Contact hours
workshop: 2 hours per week
tutorials: 1 hour per week
Text

Higgs, J. et al. Communicating in the Health Sciences, 3rd edn: OUP 2012

  • 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.