Course overview
This course focuses on the role of strategic communication in managing situations of risk and crisis. You will consider risk and crisis communication in local, national and international contexts and across NGO, government and corporate sectors. You will identify issues and strategies for managing risks, plan effective communication strategies to prevent issues from becoming risks, and examine how new technologies and a changing media environment can influence the response of stakeholders. Other topics covered include issues of trust, credibility and control; corporate social responsibility (CSR); and the ethical and legal requirements for communications practitioners in Australia.
Course learning outcomes
- Critically evaluate contemporary issues and trends in risk and crisis communication, including the needs of different stakeholders, the impact of new technologies and media platforms, and the expectations of different sectors
- Demonstrate knowledge of current industry norms and professional practices in risk and crisis communication
- Apply risk and crisis management strategies to the evaluation of issues, risks, and crises
- Demonstrate knowledge of the ethical and legal considerations shaping 'best-practice' risk and crisis communication in Australia