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57149 Information and Knowledge Management Major Paper

UTS: Communication: Creative Practice
Credit points: 8 cp
Result Type: Grade, no marks

Requisite(s): 57089 Information Research and Data Analysis AND 48 credit points of completed study in C04203 Master of Arts in Information and Knowledge Management

Handbook description

In this subject, students explore in depth a topic relevant to a specific area of information or knowledge management theory or practice and prepare a major paper for publication in a refereed journal of the field. Students critically analyse and synthesise theoretical and professional literature on the topic; they also have the opportunity to theorise their own practice. Students demonstrate their understanding of the topic through the presentation and discussion of their major paper and extend this understanding to the topic areas chosen by others in the student group.

Subject objectives/outcomes

At the completion of this subject, students will be able to:

  1. identify, analyse and synthesise theoretical and professional literature
  2. understand and apply theory to practice
  3. understand the political, social and technological contexts of information and knowledge management practice
  4. understand the nature of ethical practice and the responsibilities of professionals to the profession and to the broader society
  5. demonstrate professional capabilities including creative, critical and reflective writing and intellectual rigour.

Contribution to graduate profile

In this subject, students will integrate theory and practice through the planning, researching and writing of a major paper relevant to their professional field. They will develop an understanding of developments in theory, contemporary issues and trends, broad political, social and technological contexts of practice and the nature of ethical practice. Students will also further develop creative, critical and reflective capabilities and demonstrate a level of intellectual rigour which will enable them to continue to make important contributions to professional practice and the body of knowledge.

Teaching and learning strategies

In this subject, there will be an emphasis on independent learning and professional development. Students will have the opportunity to explore an area of information and knowledge work of individual interest as well as learn from the explorations of other students. The student group will work as a publication syndicate to support each others' work and provide feedback as the paper is developed; UTSOnline will be used to facilitate this process and resources on academic writing will be provided. There will be four compulsory classes through the semester: an introduction to the subject including the relationship between theory and practice and the nature of ethical practice; presentation of proposals; workshop on academic writing; presentation of completed paper at a student conference at the end of the semester.

Content

This is determined by the choice of topics. Some content will be provided in the compulsory classes on publication syndicates, writing for academic journals, critical analysis and reflection.

Assessment

Assessment item 1: Proposal for journal article

Objective(s): a, c, d
Weighting: 30%
Task: A proposal of approximately 1500 words must be submitted by Week 6 outlining the topic chosen and its significance, the conceptual framework, and planned scope and treatment; literature which has contributed to the development of the proposal, and choice of journal for submission. Topics may be chosen broadly but may include explorations of developments in theory or practice, new developments and applications in technology, trends and issues for practice including political, social, professional and ethical issues.
Assessment criteria:
  • clarity of description of proposed topic and scope
  • level of development of conceptual framework
  • appropriateness of proposed treatment of topic
  • evidence of relevant background reading

Assessment item 2: Major paper and presentation

Objective(s): a, b, c, d, e
Weighting: 70%
Task: Each student will research and write a 4000 to 5000 word paper on their chosen topic for submission to a peer reviewed journal relevant to the field of information management or knowledge management. The paper should be prepared according to the instructions to authors for the journal and include an abstract. In addition, each student will make a 15 minute presentation on their paper to a student conference at the end of the semester. The conference will be organised as an academic conference.
Assessment criteria:
  • clarity of structure and writing of paper and abstract
  • level of analysis and synthesis of key concepts, trends and issues relevant to the chosen topic
  • demonstrated understanding of importance for information and knowledge management theory and practice
  • evidence of wide and critical reading on the topic
  • clarity of organisation and delivery of presentation

Minimum requirements

Students are expected to read the subject outline to ensure they are familiar with the subject requirements. Since class discussion and participation in activities form an integral part of this subject, you are expected to attend, arrive punctually and actively participate in classes. If you experience difficulties meeting this requirement, please contact your lecturer. Students who have a reason for extended absence (e.g. illness) may be required to complete additional work to ensure they achieve the subject objectives.

Indicative references

There is no set text for this subject. Students will be expected to read widely for their assignment work. Resources on academic writing will be provided on UTSOnline.