COMM 1019 Introduction to Journalism (WSTC)
Credit Points 10
Legacy Code 700182
Coordinator Ariadna Kiehn Opens in new window
Description This subject introduces students to the fields of journalism and new media, covering the concepts of news values and news research for target audiences. It looks at the role of the journalist and the professional skills of news gathering and news writing. The subject also considers the legal and ethical obstacles and obligations faced by journalists operating in an environment of fast paced communication. The methodologies underlying professional practice as well as delivering news with speed for multimedia platforms are central to this subject.
School Humanities & Comm Arts
Discipline Journalism
Student Contribution Band HECS Band 4 10cp
Check your fees via the Fees page.
Level Undergraduate Level 1 subject
Co-requisite(s) Students enrolled in the combined DiplomaBachelor courses listed below must pass all College Preparatory units listed in the course structure before progressing to the Year 2 units
Equivalent Subjects COMM 1018 - Introduction to Journalism
Restrictions
Students must be enrolled at Western Sydney University, The College. Students enrolled in Extended Diplomas must pass 40 credit points from the preparatory subjects listed in the program structure prior to enrolling in this University level subject.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- Explain the importance of journalism in the modern world.
- Understand the importance of audiences and medias when choosing news.
- Explain the flow of information in creating news.
- Ask questions and conduct interviews in a professional context.
- Engage with the news and news environments for published outcomes.
- Apply skills gained for intellectual and professional insights.
Subject Content
Journalism as professional practice
Journalism as decision-making
Finding news
Choosing news and sources
Gathering news
Evaluating information
Constructing news
Editing news
Working with words
Marketing/selling news to a target audience
Assessment
The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.
| Type | Length | Percent | Threshold | Individual/Group Task | Mandatory |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Project | 400 words | 25 | N | Individual | N |
| Applied Project | 600 words | 40 | N | Individual | N |
| Portfolio | 500 words | 35 | N | Individual | N |
Teaching Periods
Term 3 (2024)
Nirimba Education Precinct
On-site
Subject Contact Chantal Rozairo Opens in new window
View timetable Opens in new window
Term 3 (2025)
Nirimba Education Precinct
On-site
Subject Contact Chantal Rozairo Opens in new window