Questions we Can Help you to Answer

Paper Instructions:

Critically analyze the development from a broadcast culture to today’s so-called ‘participatory culture’. Focusing on key media and communications technologies, identify the factors that gave rise to the introduction and diffusion of these innovations, as well as the impact that these technologies have had on society. Rather than discussing broadcast culture in isolation from participatory culture, try to identify continuities and similarities between these two epochs, while still acknowledging the distinctions.  

You must use at least six scholarly references. These can be sourced from the readings from Weeks 05, 06, 07, and 08 (choose at least one of these readings), as well as through the Swinburne library to support your discussion. Note that encyclopaedia entries (Wikipedia, Encyclopedia Britannica etc.) do not count as scholarly texts and should not be used in assessments (the only time you would use and cite Wikipedia, for example, is if your essay topic is actually about these kinds of websites and their uses).

Critical analysis is an evaluation of the arguments being made in scholarly texts. It involves forming a critical opinion (your own argument), which is created through examining all sides of various arguments, through reflecting on issues in the scholarly texts in a thoughtful, clear and well-balanced manner. This involves making a reasoned judgment of arguments being made, by identifying both false and/or biased assumptions, and credible and convincing arguments, based on evidence. So your own argument can agree with and/or challenge the arguments being made in the scholarly texts. You will support your own argument through bringing in examples other than those being made in the scholarly texts.

Essay Criteria:

Introduction (15%)
Orients reader to organisation of essay
Clearly introduces argument of essay
States why the argument is important
Argument and Discussion (50%)
Successful identification of scholarly literature
Evidence of understanding the literature, including concepts
Application of literature and concepts to the topic
Balanced, logical and flowing argument
Takes a critical and analytical rather than descriptive approach
Synthesises all relevant individual points into a cohesive overall argument
Conclusion (15%)
Summarises key findings
Clearly reinforces overall argument through reference to key points made in essay
Referencing and Presentation (20%)
Appropriate sentencing and paragraphing
Discussions and meanings are clear
Correct grammar and spelling
Consistent and accurate in-text referencing and reference list
Essay conforms to Submission Requirements.