Key facts
UNE unit code: COMM332
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
News journalism and the media space is a rapidly changing environment with many different social, political and financial factors at play.
In this unit you’ll cover conceptual knowledge of contemporary practices across news media and journalism.
The unit introduces you to journalism in the context of global networked environments, convergent media and multiplatform practices in news.
You will explore short-form and long-form journalism, and develop knowledge of genres, styles, news values, and intersections with social media, as well as ethics in journalism. You’ll also learn about related industry and government regulations.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate broad knowledge of news genres, styles, practices and ethics in journalism;
- apply critical terms, concepts and approaches to analyse news media forms and practices, including online journalism techniques;
- apply analysis and research skills to examine digital shifts in news media and journalism, including knowledge of institutions, government and agencies, as well as social, political and ethical implications of news media; and
- communicate informed responses to practices and production of news media through critical analysis, including reflection and writing on the key features of news and digital journalism.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Text-based activities No. Words: 1500 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 60% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 2500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
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