Course Title: Critical Enquiry in Media and Communication

Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Critical Enquiry in Media and Communication

Credit Points: 24.00

Terms

Course Code

Campus

Career

School

Learning Mode

Teaching Period(s)

COMM2669

City Campus

Postgraduate

345H Media and Communication

Face-to-Face

Sem 2 2017,
Sem 1 2018,
Sem 2 2018,
Sem 2 2019,
Sem 2 2020,
Sem 1 2021,
Sem 2 2021,
Sem 1 2022,
Sem 1 2023,
Sem 2 2023

Course Coordinator: Dr John Postill

Course Coordinator Phone: TBC

Course Coordinator Email: john.postill@rmit.edu.au

Course Coordinator Location: Building 9 Level 5

Course Coordinator Availability: Contact Course Coordinator


Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

None


Course Description

How do you research and invent possibilities?

In this course you will develop the knowledge and skills to undertake research by exploring a range of principles and methods commonly used in media and communication research.

In exploring the research process, you will examine research plans that include: evaluating literature; finalising research questions; considering theory and practice; and identifying appropriate ways to apply research methods. You will define, draft and refine the plan for a research project to be completed as the last course in the program. The project mode will vary, depending on your academic and/or professional industry context.
 


Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

Program Learning Outcomes 

 

If you are enrolled in MC262 Master of Writing and Publishing or MC249 Master of Advertising you will develop the following program learning outcomes: 

  • Determine and apply the specialist knowledge and technical skills required to solve problems creatively, demonstrating expert judgement and ethical responsibility relating to your professional practice and discipline.
  • Professionally communicate propositions, processes and outcomes to address specialist and non-specialist audiences.
  • Use appropriate research methods to design and execute substantial projects, evaluate the outcomes and theorise about the contribution of your learning to the profession and knowledge area. 

 

If you are enrolled in MC248 Master of Communication you will develop the following program learning outcomes: 

  • Determine and apply the specialist knowledge and technical skills required to creatively solve problems, demonstrating expert judgment and ethical responsibility relating to your professional practice and discipline.
  • Provide leadership within your discipline as well as collaborate with others.
  • Use appropriate research methods to design and execute substantial projects, evaluate the outcomes and theorise about the contribution of your learning to the profession and knowledge area. 


Upon successful completion of this course you will be able to:

  • Critically analyse literature and major works related to international professional practice in your area.
  • Evaluate research principles applicable to your profession or discipline.
  • Identify research questions to address new or under-researched issues, and select appropriate research methods.
  • Propose, develop and present research project plans related to scholarly and industry needs, both local and international.
  • Critique the work of others, evaluate and respond to feedback on your own work.


Overview of Learning Activities

You will be engaged in learning that involves a range of activities both face-to-face and online such as workshops, tutorials, group and class discussion, class activities and individual research.
 


Overview of Learning Resources

RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through our online systems.

A list of recommended learning resources will be provided by your lecturer, including books, journal articles and web resources. You will also be expected to seek further resources relevant to the focus of your own learning.

The University Library has extensive resources for Communication students. The Library has produced a subject guide that includes quality online and print resources for your studies http://rmit.libguides.com/media-and-communication.

The Library provides guides on academic referencing: http://www.rmit.edu.au/library/referencing and subject specialist help via your Liaison Librarian.
 


Overview of Assessment

You will be assessed on how well you meet the course’s learning outcomes and on your development against the program learning outcomes. Assessment may include presentations, projects and may be done individually and in teams. 

 

Assessment Tasks 

Assessment Task 1: Annotated Bibliography, 30% CLO1, CLO5 

Assessment Task 2: (a) Survey Design, or (b) Creative Research Piece, 30% CLO1, CLO2 and CLO3 

Assessment Task 3: Research Proposal, 40% CLO3, CLO4 and CLO5 

 

Feedback will be given on all assessment tasks. 

If you have a long term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more. 

Your course assessment conforms to RMIT assessment principles, regulations, policies, procedures and instructions.