2596 (v.11) Journalism 210 - Media Law

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Area:	Department of Media and Information
Credits:	25.0
Contact Hours:	3.0
Lecture:	1 x 1 Hours Weekly
Tutorial:	1 x 2 Hours Weekly
Prerequisite(s):	1557 (v.10) Journalism 111 - Introduction to Print or any previous version AND 1564 (v.10) Journalism 112 - Introduction to Broadcast or any previous version
Syllabus:	An introduction to Australian law relevant to publication, with an emphasis on the law relevant to journalism practice. Including the law governing defamation, confidentiality, privacy, freedom of information, censorship, contempt of court, court reporting, and copyright and an examination of print and broadcast regulatory institutions. Equips students with an ability to identify and exploit the limits of free speech.
Unit Outcomes:	On successful completion of this unit, students will have- A knowledge and understanding of Australian law relevant to publication, with an emphasis on the law relating to the practice of journalism. A knowledge and understanding of the law relating to journalism which has aroused debate and reform interest. An acquaintance with court reporting techniques, procedures and protocols. An ability to think and write critically about the impact of the law on journalism. An ability to practice in journalism mindful of the principles of free expression.
Text and references listed above are for your information only and current as of September 30, 2003. Please check with the unit coordinator for up-to-date information.
Unit References:	J210/510 Reading Materials placed in Robertson Library (Curtin, Bentley) Closed Reserve section.
Unit Texts:	Armstrong, M., Lindsay, D. and Watterson, R. (1995), Media Law in Australia (third edition). South Melbourne, Oxford University Press. Fernandez, J. J210/510 Media Law Handbook. Perth, Black Swan.
Unit Assessment Breakdown:	End of semester examination 35%, Report based on coverage of court/parlimentary proceedings 20%, Research essay 20%, Tutorial participation 10%, Tutorial presentation 15%. This is by grade/mark assessment. An aggregate mark of fifty per cent or more for the semester normally signifies a pass, but a fail can be recorded regardless of the aggregate. In other words, a student can fail a unit even if they secure fifty per cent or more, if he or she fails to complete al assignment components, by the due datesor extended dates. To pass the unit, it is not compulsory to pass each component individually, but the final mark must lead to an overall pass mark in the unit.
Year Location Period Internal Area External Central External 2004 Bentley Campus Semester 1 Y     2004 Bentley Campus Semester 2 Y