Government, Media and Public Engagement G (9433.3)

This unit explores the theoretical constructs and practical application of public opinion and public engagement, particularly in relation to media and democratic theories; contemporary social and media landscapes including e-government and social media; political communication and policymaking and the mediated representation of public issues. Case studies will examine the relationships between media reporting, interest groups, policymakers and everyday conversation in shaping public opinion, politics and public policy.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this unit, student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a theoretical and practical understanding of the role of public opinion and participation in a democratic society;

2. Critique contested approaches to public opinion formation and influence in a range of social, institutional and media contexts;
3. Investigate and apply theories of public opinion and mediatisation to a range of contemporary case studies; and
4. Articulate coherent written and verbal analyses of the theoretical constructs discussed.

Graduate attributes

1. UC graduates are professional - communicate effectively
1. UC graduates are professional - employ up-to-date and relevant knowledge and skills
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 - behave ethically and sustainably in their professional and personal lives
2. UC graduates are global citizens - make creative use of technology in their learning and professional lives
2. UC graduates are global citizens - think globally about issues in their profession
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 - evaluate and adopt new technology
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - reflect on their own practice, updating and adapting their knowledge and skills for continual professional and academic development

Prerequisites

None

Corequisites

None.

Incompatible units

None

Equivalent units

None

Assumed knowledge

Broad knowledge developed through Bachelor's degree or equivalent.