106-471 Structural Editing

This subject is only available to students enrolled in the Publishing and Communications program or the Bachelor of Arts (Media and Communications Honours) or MA (Media & Communications)

This subject focuses on the structural editing of texts in a range of genres, including instructional, polemical, scholarly and narrative works. Students will learn how to analyse the reading practices characteristic of different genres, and will be given practical experience in editing texts to meet the requirements and expectations of various projected readerships. There will be particular emphasis on citation systems, the incorporation of illustrations and the development of finding aids. The subject will also familiarise students with protocols for effective author/editor communication and acquaint them with the ethical responsibilities that govern editors' participation in the publishing process. On successfully completing this subject, students will have a sound grasp of strategies for appraising the rhetoric and structure of texts in a wide range of genres.

• develop high-level written and oral communication skills through contribution to class discussions, the completion of exercises and assignments, wide reading on issues relating to contemporary publishing, and exposure to the protocols of editorial practice;

• show a capacity for effective teamwork through group discussions, collaborative exercises and involvement in author-editor negotiations;

• acquire cultural and ethical understanding through reflection, reading and practical experience of the editor's ethical responsibilities;

• develop information technology literacy and understanding of information management through participation in computer laboratory sessions and completion of exercises and assignments;

• acquire skills in research, including the use of online as well as print-based materials in the course of exercises and assignments;

• acquire skills in time management and planning through managing workloads for recommended reading, tutorial presentations and assessment requirements;

• develop a capacity for close critical analysis through engagement with a range of texts and critique of their structures and strategies.

An editing assignment of 1000 words 20% (due early in the semester); an editing assignment of 1000 words 20% (due mid-semester); an editing assignment of 3000 words 50% (due at the end of semester); and participation in workshops 10%.

A subject reader will be available from the University Bookshop.