INF429 The Information Society (8)

This subject explores key concepts related to the information society and knowledge economy and examines current trends and issues in this area. This includes discussion of social, cultural, legal and ethical aspects of relevant issues and their impact on information practice. There is a particular emphasis on a number of fundamental topics including misinformation, disinformation, digital divide, digital inclusion, freedom of information, intellectual property, information privacy, information ethics, information policy and the significance of diversity in the information society. The subject also explicates various roles of information professionals in the information society and how to apply theoretical frameworks in practice.

Availability

Session 1 (30)
Online
Wagga Wagga Campus
Session 2 (60)
Online
SPACE, University of Hong Kong
Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: INF429. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Information and Communication Studies

Enrolment Restrictions

Not available to students who have completed INF303.

Incompatible Subjects

INF303

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to analyse and synthesise issues and concepts relating to the information society and knowledge economy;
  • be able to critically apply their understanding of the social, legal, cultural and ethical issues relating to information in society;
  • be able to evaluate the role of the information professional in the information society; and
  • be able to demonstrate the significance and impact of diversity to work constructively and respectfully in the information society.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Key concepts in the information society
  • Information flow and knowledge creation
  • Role of knowledge in society
  • Information access issues including digital divide and digital inclusion
  • E-government, e-services and e-commerce
  • Media and information policy
  • Information ethics and freedom of information
  • Intellectual property and open access
  • Cultural, legal and ethical aspects of relevant issues
  • Various roles of information professionals in the information society

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of INF429 in Session 2 2021. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Essay - disinformation and misinformation
50
2
Essay  sustainability and information society
50

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: June 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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