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COM173 Introduction to Communications (8)

Abstract

This subject focuses on skills and knowledge relevant to BA studies in general. It has three strands. The first provides a working knowledge of the nature, values and functioning of important Australian institutions, so that they can be critically evaluated. The second develops skills in academic writing and in the use of library databases. The third introduces the fundamentals of argument and critical thinking.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Session 1
InternalAlbury-Wodonga Campus
InternalBathurst Campus
InternalWagga Wagga Campus
InternalWestern Sydney Institute
DistanceDubbo Campus
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: COM173
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionSY/USAcademic Success

Enrolment restrictions

Not for students who have completed either GEN101 or GEN102.
Available only to students in CSU Pathway program - University Certificate in General Studies

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
- be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of the institutions studied, and surrounding debates;
- be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of the main forms of argument;
- be able to apply this knowledge to analyse arguments, and construct clear and cogent arguments of their own;
- be able to demonstrate development in reading and writing skills, with respect to sentences, paragraphs, and essays;
- be able to demonstrate development in research skills, with respect to using the universities library database; and,
- be able to demonstrate development in the ability to write a well constructed academic essay.

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
- Writing skills at the level of the sentence, the paragraph and the essay
- Skills of summarising
- Rhetorical analysis
- Critical reasoning including deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning and analysis of logical fallacies
- Description of contemporary Australian social, political, economic and communication/cultural systems and structures
- Analysis and critique of some key ethical values underpinning these systems and structures

Residential School

This subject contains a compulsory 5 day residential school. Students studying the distance education option will be required to attend two face-to-face sessions at the support hub in Dubbo, including a three day orientation at the start of the course. 
 
Dates for Residential Schools
 
·         First Residential School/Orientation
Tuesday 25, Wednesday 26, Thursday 27 February 2014.
 
·         Second Residential School
Tuesday 18 and Wednesday 19 March 2014

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The information contained in the 2015 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 01 October 2015. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.