MDIA 3207 - Media Industry Transitions

This course prepares students for transition to professional employment and/or further studies. Students attend a pre-semester induction and the core module prior to taking their preferred independent course pathway. The core module refreshes prior media knowledge of theoretical and regulatory frameworks and research uses in the sector. It introduces: emerging trends and issues in the local sector; workplace cultures; professional self-audits; time-management, observational and negotiation skills; legal and contractual obligations; research and communication strategies for employment; a range of business communication genres; professional profile and presentation techniques and peer-to-peer networking activities. Independent pathway workshops occur mid-semester, followed by individual consultations, and a peer-to-peer workshop in Week 12. Pathway (A) has a Work-Integrated-Learning (WIL) focus, including a self-initiated, flexibly-organised placement of 10-12 days at a host organisation. Students conduct a 'virtual job search', set personalised learning objectives, and gain direct industry experience by working closely with a host supervisor. Students submit in situ progress reports to their academic supervisor; and a Final Report of 4000 words, excluding appendices, which synthesises academic and workplace learning in a business report format of publishable standard. University insurance contracts require pre-start approval by Faculty office. Hosts provide graded student evaluations. Placements are monitored by academic supervisors. Pathway (B) students conduct an individual desktop research project using public domain materials. Two research training workshops cover the design, theoretical positioning and conduct of secondary research; evidence and argument; ethical and legal issues; and the compositional features of a 5000 word research report. Students work under academic supervision to complete their industry study, consolidating and advancing research capabilities developed in advanced-level Media core courses. Research projects proceed following approval from academic staff. They can be designed as a preliminary study for future research.