This unit aims to build in students a readiness to communicate evidence, information and opinions clearly in professional settings. The unit serves to clarify the expectations and industry requirements regarding communication in academia and the professional world, with a focus on the specific standards applied in the disciplines and professions associated with distinct courses. It builds in students the foundational knowledge and skills needed to begin to meet those expectations. Special focus is also directed to understanding the importance of culturally safe practice during communication with diverse and minority groups within the community. Important essential concepts required for interpersonal communication skills such as self-awareness/bias, active listening, critical self-reflection and feedback will also be explored. Unilateral communication (e.g. speech, presentation, memo, executive summary) and interactive communication (e.g. interview, committee meeting, correspondence chain, social media thread) are explored both in the written and verbal context. In all cases, a primary focus is on the meeting of expectations held by the receivers of the communication.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
The assessment tasks link the learning outcomes and graduate capabilities. As a foundational unit, students experience 3 different types of communication. The series of micro-presentations require students to utilise interpersonal skills to communicate their ideas succinctly and engage their audience effectively. Collaborative group assessments enable students to solve simulated industry cases through decision making on effective verbal communication strategies and develop critical reflective, appreciation of diverse perspectives, and feedback skills. Students also have the opportunity to demonstrate their individual written skills through the assessment which applies to a simulated industry case.
Selected readings will be made available via the unit VU Collaborate site.
This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):