Producing Credible Communication (11081.1)

Required texts

All required readings are provided to students via the Reading List on Canvas. 

Inclusion and engagement

The values of inclusion and respect for diversity are central to the University, and particularly within this unit. 

The University of Canberra has outlined the following commitment to fostering an environment which supports all students. This includes a commitment to;

Recognise, encourage and celebrate students from all sections of society;
Promote an environment that fosters fairness, equity and respect for social and cultural diversity;
Support students and staff to reach their full potential through the promotion of reasonable expectations and provision of an inclusive learning environment
Offer programs that aim to overcome disadvantage for student and staff equity groups; and
Ensure that staff and students are aware of their rights and responsibilities as members of the University community 
More information about Equity and Diversity at the University of Canberra is available here: http://www.canberra.edu.au/about-uc/equity-diversity

In addition, class rosters and University data systems are provided to instructors with students legal names and gender indications. However, knowing that not all students use their legal names or sex/gender assigned at birth, teaching staff in this unit are happy to use the name and/or pronouns that you use. We will take time during our first class together to do introductions, at which point you can share with all members of our learning community what name and pronouns you use. Additionally, if these change at any point during the semester, please us know and we can develop a way to share this information with others in a way that is comfortable and safe for you. 

Policy on Children in Class:

It is my belief that if we want women in academia, that we should also expect children to be present in some form. Currently, the university does not have a formal policy on children in the classroom. The policy described here is thus, a reflection of my own beliefs and commitments to student, staff and faculty parents. 

1) All exclusively breastfeeding babies are welcome in class as often as is necessary to support the breastfeeding relationship. I never want students to feel like they have to choose between feeding their baby and continuing their education. You and your nursing baby are welcome in class anytime.

2) For older children and babies, I understand that minor illnesses and unforeseen disruptions in childcare often put parents in the position of having to choose between missing class to stay home with a child and leaving him or her with someone you or the child does not feel comfortable with. While this is not meant to be a long-term childcare solution, occasionally bringing a child to class in order to cover gaps in care is perfectly acceptable.

3) I ask that all students work with me to create a welcoming environment that is respectful of all forms of diversity, including diversity in parenting status.

4) In all cases where babies and children come to class, I ask that you sit close to the door so that if your little one needs special attention and is disrupting learning for other students, you may step outside until their need has been met. Non-parents in the class, please reserve seats near the door for your parenting classmates.

5) Finally, I understand that often the largest barrier to completing your coursework once you become a parent is the tiredness many parents feel in the evening once children have finally gone to sleep. The struggles of balancing school, childcare and often another job are exhausting! I hope that you will feel comfortable disclosing your student-parent status to me. This is the first step in my being able to accommodate any special needs that arise. While I maintain the same high expectations for all student in my classes regardless of parenting status, I am happy to problem solve with you in a way that makes you feel supported as you strive for school-parenting balance. Thank you for the diversity you bring to our classroom.  

Participation requirements

As some assessment items will be completed in tutorials, students who are unable to attend tutorials may find it difficult to successfully complete the unit to a high standard. Students who are registered with Inclusion and Engagement and have Reasonable Adjustment Plans will be accommodated as per their required needs.

Required IT skills

None

Work placement, internships or practicums

None

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