Risk, Crisis and Communication (7545.6)

This unit examines contemporary theories of risk and risk communication drawing on the seminal ideas of Beck and Giddens. The central ideas of the risk society are examined, including contributions from sociology, cultural anthropology, psychology and contemporary communication, media and cultural studies research. Models of risk communication are examined including the dominant technical or scientific approach, psychometric research on risk perceptions, and later models of reflexive practice that encompass broader social and cultural approaches.. Case studies include risk communication practice in the environmental sciences, science and health communication, government and international communication, and crisis communication.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. A critical understanding of the central ideas in risk theory and contemporary models of risk and crisis communication;
2. Critical awareness of issues in risk communication research;
3. Understanding of the ethical, cultural, political and social issues in this field; and
4. An understanding of the link between risk communication models and professional practice.

Graduate attributes

1. UC graduates are professional - communicate effectively
1. UC graduates are professional - display initiative and drive, and use their organisation skills to plan and manage their workload
1. UC graduates are professional - use creativity, critical thinking, analysis and research skills to solve theoretical and real-world problems
2. UC graduates are global citizens - communicate effectively in diverse cultural and social settings
2. UC graduates are global citizens - think globally about issues in their profession
1. UC graduates are professional - employ up-to-date and relevant knowledge and skills
2. UC graduates are global citizens - adopt an informed and balanced approach across professional and international boundaries
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - adapt to complexity, ambiguity and change by being flexible and keen to engage with new ideas
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - be self-aware
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - reflect on their own practice, updating and adapting their knowledge and skills for continual professional and academic development

Skills development

 

Prerequisites

Communication and Media Research

Incompatible units

None

Equivalent units

None

Assumed knowledge

None