units

FIT5090

Faculty of Information Technology

22 April 2013 21 May 2013

Postgraduate - Unit

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6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered, or view unit timetables.

LevelPostgraduate
FacultyFaculty of Information Technology
OfferedCaulfield First semester 2013 (Day)
Caulfield First semester 2013 (Off-campus)
South Africa First semester 2013 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit provides students with a critical understanding of the impact of information technology (IT) within contemporary social relations. Using case studies drawn from different social spheres, the unit explores the ways in which the diffusion of IT has reshaped thinking and practice concerning social collaboration, the production of knowledge and community building. Particular attention is paid to the emerging field of community informatics, and the implications that this field holds for the work of information and knowledge management professionals

Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

  • analyse the nature and operation of information communities within contemporary society;
  • evaluate community informatics as an emerging discipline and professional practice;
  • assess contemporary debates concerning the social impact of information technology use;
  • distinguish the collaborative behaviours and interdependencies which contribute to notions of community;
  • analyse and critique cases from the information industry.

Assessment

Examination (3 hours): 50%; In-semester assessment: 50%;

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Steven Wright

Contact hours

2 hrs lectures/wk, 2 hrs tutorial/wk

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Library, archival and recordkeeping systems

Prohibitions

IMS5023

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at:

http://www.infotech.monash.edu.au/units/fit5090/