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No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2017

INF460 Community Informatics (8)

Abstract

As digital communication networks and devices become increasingly pervasive, there is a need for information professionals who can champion the use of technology at a community level in order to influence positive outcomes in relation to, and in balance with both social capital and the economic potential of digital technologies.  Such information professionals require skills in community engagement, project management, social innovation and the use of information and communications technologies for development.  In many countries there is significant public investment in the infrastructure of digital networks, not least in Australia in the form of the National Broadband Network.  This subject will develop information professionals who can ensure that the economic benefits that flow from the use of these networks are distributed in such a way that they do not replicate existing inequalities, but rather add to the social capital that resides within existing communities.  This subject will be of interest to those who wish to work in the not-for-profit sector, in public libraries, in community development, in social innovation or social justice settings.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details prior to contacting their course coordinator: INF460
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 sessionHD/FLSchool of Information Studies

Enrolment restrictions

Not available to students who have completed INF339 or INF542.
Incompatible subject(s)
INF339 INF542

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to apply a coherent body of knowledge to their understanding of community informatics as theory and practice;
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of a broad body of knowledge with some depth in some areas of Indigenous culture;
  • be able to critically analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge and understanding of the impact of digital networks on the formation of community and social capital;
  • be able to identify and articulate the potential for innovation enabled by pervasive broadband infrastructure;
  • be able to adapt knowledge and skills to identify and communicate effectively the potential of open data; and
  • be able to apply judgement, planning, problem solving and decision making to community development projects in multiple contexts.

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
  • Community and social capital
  • The network society
  • Networked individualism
  • Broadband and innovation
  • Indigenous culture and knowledge
  • Digital literacy and digital inclusion
  • Information and communications technologies for development
  • Community informatics in practice

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The information contained in the 2017 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 25 August 2017. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.