subject Outline

Melbourne Institute of Finance & Management

CMN113 Communication in the 21st Century

A. COURSE IDENTIFICATION

COURSE: Advanced Diploma of Business COURSE CODE: BSB60601SUBJECT NAME: Communication in the 21st CenturySUBJECT CODE: CMN113TEACHER GUIDED HOURS: 80 hoursLEARNER DIRECTED HOURS: 120 hoursDURATION: 1 semesterPRE-REQUISITE SUBJECTS: NilSUBJECT TEACHER: (teacher to fill in)CONTACT DETAILS: Location: (teacher to fill in)

Phone: (teacher to fill in)Email: (teacher to fill in)

B. SUBJECT CONTENT AND OBJECTIVES

This subject looks at understanding the relationship between communication and technology and the roles they play in contemporary business. Upon completion of this subject, successful students should be able to:

understand the importance and credibility of both good communication and information management in business;

demonstrate development of skills in both written and oral communication; demonstrate development of skills in negotiation, conflict, intercultural and team

management

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C. ASSESSMENT TASKS AND VALUE

Assessment Task Units Homework Due Date Value

Final exam 1-12 30 Hours Week 13 50%

Assignment 1 Students must complete and hand in the assignment on time. Late work

will be penalised.

Week 9 40%

Class participation & attendance

Students must attend 90% of classes and have active participation in all classes attended to receive 10%

10%

Total 100%

AssignmentStudents will be required to complete an assignment for this subject. Assignments will be marked according to the following weighted criteria:

Completion on time 10Presentation 10Understanding of the topic 25Ability to communicate understanding 25Fulfillment of all assignment requirements 30

100%

At the end of the subject, students will be given a grade according to their overall mark. Grades will be awarded according to the following table of marks:

Grade Code Marks DescriptionHigh Distinction HD 80-100 Successfully completed

Distinction D 70-79 Successfully completedCredit C 60-69 Successfully completedPass P 50-59 Successfully completedFail N 0-49 Failed assessment

Did not sit DNS Failed. Did not complete all assessments.Withdrawn W Officially withdrawnIncomplete I Approved to complete assessment within three months

Recognition of Prior Learning

RPL Recognition of work and life experiences

Credit Transfer CT Recognition of identical studies at a registered institution

Please note that students must pass their final exam to pass the subject.

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D. SUBJECT PLANNER (13 weeks)

Academic Week Unit Number and Unit Name

Required Reading

1. Doing and using research Ch 3

2. Letter and memos Ch 4

3. Reports and proposals Ch 5

4. Online writing Ch6

5. Non-verbal communication Ch 8

6. Interpersonal skills: 1 Ch9

7.Interpersonal skills:2 Ch 10

8. Oral communication Ch 11

9. Negotiation skills

Assignment DueCh 14

10. Conflict management Ch 15

11. Intercultural communication Ch 16

12. Team communication Ch 20

13. Final Exam

E. TEXTS AND REFERENCESa) Prescribed text:

Eunson, B. (2005) Communicating in the 21st Century. John Wiley & Sons Australia: Queensland.

b) Recommended texts and references:Lesikar, R.V. and Flatley, M.E. (2002) Basic Business Communication: Skills for Empowering the Internet Generation (9th Ed.). McGraw-Hill, Irwin: New York. Learning Resources under Student Access on the MIFM website at

www.mifm.vic.edu.au. Use your student number to request a login code from the website.

Additional reading will be handed out during class. There are also numerous questions and solutions available throughout the

prescribed text.c) Other references:

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In addition it is strongly recommended that students read the financial press on a regular basis. By keeping up to date with current financial events, extra insight into the theoretical material of the course can be obtained. Some recommended publications available on the internet are: The Australian Financial Review (afr.com) The Australian (www.theaustralian.news.com.au) Business Review Weekly (www.brw.com.au)

Students may also be called upon to undertake research of their own for homework or assignments. Use of the school library or the internet for research is strongly suggested. Although printed texts available may vary, the use of the following search engines will assist students in finding useful information for their studies: Yahoo Australia (www.yahoo.com.au) Anzwers Australia & NZ (au.anzwers.yahoo.com) Google Australia (www.google.com.au) Dogpile Web Search (www.dogpile.com)

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F. WHAT IS EXPECTED OF STUDENTS

It is the responsibility of students to arrive to classes on time, with all equipment necessary to complete class work, including writing implements, notebooks, dictionaries and calculators as necessary. All mobiles are to be switched off before entering classes and exam venues.

Classes are designed to ensure that students are provided with an overview of key issues and important material for each week’s topic. Students are encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification on points they do not understand. They are also strongly encouraged to write class notes in their own words, for useful review throughout the semester and revision at the time of the final exam.

The “Activity” and “Self Assessment” questions found throughout the chapters are to be done by the students as they undertake the reading, with solutions found at the end of the chapter allowing students immediate feedback on their thoughts.

For any issues not fully understood, students are encouraged to ask the teacher during class for further explanation. Teachers may also leave after hour’s contact details if they have additional time which they would like to make available for student questions.

To gain the most benefit from each lesson, students should attempt all homework questions required before attending the class. It has been observed in the past that students who do not perform well in tertiary level subjects are those with low attendance records and and/or do not complete exercises and questions required during class or for homework.

Any student who does not sit the final examination will fail the subject unless the following circumstance applies:

- Appropriate documentary evidence must be supplied (doctors certificate clearly indicating that the doctors actually examined you – doctor not just informed). A resit will be allowed only upon academic approval of this evidence.

- A student requiring medical attention on the day did not obtain documentary evidence, but requests a resit. This will be allowed, but will incur a penalty, where the maximum mark obtainable is 50%.

A student who fails a subject must re-enrol in that subject and complete all subject requirements.

Plagiarism is using the work and/or ideas of others without their consent or acknowledging them. This includes copying direct quotes from books, the internet or other students, which is considered a form of theft and will not be tolerated. Plagiarism is an act of serious academic misconduct which will result in equally serious disciplinary actions.

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G. COMPETENCIES

BSBCMN406A Maintain business technology

Unit Descriptor This unit covers the skills and knowledge required to maintain the effectiveness of business technology in the workplace. It includes activities such as the maintenance of existing technology and the planning of future technology requirements.

This unit is related to BSBCMN307A Maintain business resources. Consider co-assessment with BSBCMN407A Coordinate business resources.

Competency Field Common

Element Performance Criteria

1. Maintain performance of hardware and software

1.1 Systems effectiveness is monitored and evaluated to ensure it meets organisational and system requirements

1.2 Operating system, drive and disk structure, reports and files are used to identify performance problems

1.3 Disk drives and peripherals are maintained according to manufacturers’ and organisational requirements

1.4 Consumables are replaced in accordance with the manufacturers’ and organisational requirements

1.5 Software applications are installed and operated in accordance with developers’ and organisational requirements

2. Provide basic system administration

2.1 System back up procedure is carried out at regular intervals according to organisational and system requirements

2.2 Security access procedures are maintained in line with organisational requirements

2.3 Licence for use of software is used, checked and recorded in accordance with organisational requirements

2.4 Virus systems are maintained and updated on a regular basis in accordance with organisational requirements

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3. Identify future technology requirements

3.1 Sources of information about new technology are accessed to maintain knowledge in current technology

3.2 Feedback from clients and colleagues is used to identify and develop improved technology systems

3.3 Existing technology is assessed against newly available technology to determine future needs and priorities

3.4 New technologies are identified and selected to achieve and maintain continuous organisational development

3.5 Management and budget approval is obtained for new technologies identified and selected

Evidence GuideThe Evidence Guide identifies the critical aspects, underpinning knowledge and skills to be demonstrated to confirm competency for this unit. This is an integral part of the assessment of competency and should be read in conjunction with the Range Statement.

Critical Aspects of Evidence

Evaluating and mapping network operations

Reviewing compliance with system protocols

Installing software and hardware

Organising and accessing software, materials and consumables

Maintaining virus, backup and security systems in line with organisational requirements

Identifying new technologies which match the future needs of the organisation

Underpinning Knowledge*

* At this level the learner must demonstrate understanding of a broad knowledge base incorporating some theoretical concepts.

The relevant legislation from all levels of government that affects business operation, especially in regard to Occupational Health and Safety and environmental issues, equal opportunity, industrial relations and anti-discrimination

Knowledge of the costs and benefits of technology maintenance strategies

Knowledge of organisation’s operating systems, including knowledge of networks

Principles of developing a maintenance schedule for a network

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Evidence Guide Knowledge of back up and security procedures,

maintenance and diagnostic procedures, licensing and installation and purchasing procedures

Understanding current industry accepted hardware and software products including knowledge of general features and capabilities

Understanding organisational business plans, goals and directions

Understanding methods and processes to prepare budget and cost analysis

Knowledge of access protocols (eg. internet, TP/TCP)

Underpinning Skills Literacy skills to interpret and evaluate the purposes and objectives of various uses of technology; display logical organisation of written information

Research and analysis skills to analyse and identify organisation’s future technology requirements

Problem solving skills for common network problems

Report writing skills to organise information from a range of sources to form recommendations

Analytical skills in relation to systems administration

Diagnostic skills in relation to identifying problems or faults

Decision making skills for purchasing of new technology

Interpersonal skills for cooperating with others on system use

Presentation skills for explaining the operation of technology in a business environment

Ability to relate to people from a range of social, cultural and ethnic backgrounds and physical and mental abilities

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Key Competency LevelsNB: These levels do not relate to the Australian Qualifications Framework. They relate to the seven areas of

generic competency that underpin effective workplace practices.

Collect, analyse and

organise information

Communicate ideas and

information

Plan and organise activities

Work with others and in teams

Use mathematical

ideas and techniques

Solve problems

Use technology

Level 2 Level 2 Level 2 Level 1 Level 2 Level 2 Level 3

Three levels of performance denote level of competency required to perform a task.

1. Perform 2. Administer 3. Design

Collecting, analysing and organising information – to formulate recommendations

Communicating ideas and information – with members of the work team

Planning and organising activities – to maintain business technology

Working with teams and others – in completing scheduled tasks

Using mathematical ideas and techniques – as an aid to measure and schedule tasks

Solving problems – to identify future technology requirements

Using technology – to complete allocated tasks

BSBMKG407A Make a presentation

Unit Descriptor This unit covers the preparation, delivery and review of a presentation to a target audience.

Competency Field Business Development


1. Prepare the presentation

1.1Written preparation is undertaken to support delivery of the presentation

1.2Outcomes for the presentation are determined to provide focus

1.3Presentation strategies are chosen to match the characteristics of the target audience, the location, the resources and the personnel needed

1.4Presentation aids and materials are selected to enhance audience understanding of key concepts and ideas

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1.5A strategy for evaluating the effectiveness of the presentation is prepared

1.6Presentation is scheduled to meet the requirements of the target audience, any other personnel needed and the location

2. Deliver a presentation

2.1The desired outcomes of the presentation are

explained to, and discussed with the target audience

2.2Presentation aids, materials and examples are used

to support target audience understanding of key concepts and ideas

2.3Non verbal and verbal communication of

participants is monitored to promote attainment of presentation outcomes

2.4Opportunities are provided for participants to seek

clarification on key ideas and concepts and the presentation is adjusted to meet participant needs and preferences

2.5Key concepts and ideas are summarised at strategic

points to facilitate participant understanding

2.6Variations in verbal and non-verbal communication

are used to maintain participant engagement

3. Review the presentation

3.1A review strategy is implemented to determine the

effectiveness of the presentation

3.2The strategy selected utilises feedback from

participants

3.3The reactions of key personnel to the delivery are

sought and discussed

3.4Adjustments to delivery are considered and

incorporated

Evidence GuideThe Evidence Guide identifies the critical aspects, knowledge and skills to be demonstrated to confirm competency for this unit. This is an integral part of the assessment of competency and should be read in conjunction with the Range Statement.


Integrated demonstration of all elements of competency and their performance criteria

A real or simulated presentation which meets the information needs of the target group.

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Evidence Guide

Underpinning Knowledge*

* At this level the learner must demonstrate understanding of a broad knowledge base incorporating some theoretical concepts.

Relevant legislation from all levels of government that affects business operation, especially in regard to Occupational Health and Safety and environmental issues, equal opportunity, industrial relations and anti-discrimination

Range of presentation strategies

Range of presentation aids and materials available to support presentations

Data collection methods that can be used to support review of presentations

Key principles association with explanation and demonstration of concepts and ideas

Underpinning Skills Literacy skills to prepare presentation information, and write in a range of styles for different target audiences

Communication including questioning, clarifying, re-phrasing

Presentation skills


Ability to utilise verbal and non-verbal techniques to sustain participant engagement

Resource Implications The learner and trainer should have access to appropriate documentation and resources normally used in the workplace

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information


Work with others and in

teams

Use mathematical


Solve problems

Use technology




Collecting, analysing and organising information in preparing information to present to a target audience

Communicating ideas and information through using presentation aids and materials to support verbal explanation of concepts and ideas.

Planning and organising activities in scheduling the presentation and in ensuring materials and equipment are available

Working with teams and others to coordinate the input of all personnel at the presentation

Using mathematical ideas and techniques in presenting numerical data to support a key idea or concept

Solving problems in deciding how to adjust a presentation during delivery to meet target audience needs

Using technology in demonstrating audio and visual materials to support a presentation

BSBFLM506A Manage workplace information systems

Unit Descriptor This unit is equivalent to the original unit BSXFMI506A Manage workplace information.

Frontline management is an important creator and manager of information. Their competency in identifying, acquiring, analysing and using appropriate information plays a significant part in the efficiency and effectiveness of the individual’s/team’s/organisation’s performance. At this level, work will normally be carried out within complex and diverse methods and procedures which require the exercise of considerable discretion and judgement, using a range of problem solving and decision making strategies.

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Consider co-assessment with BSBFLM502A Provide leadership in the workplace, BSBFLM505A Manage operational plan, BSBFLM507A Manage quality customer service, BSBMGT505A Ensure a safe workplace, and BSBFLM509A Promote continuous improvement.

Competency Field Business Management Services


1. Identify and source information needs

1.1 The information needs of teams is determined and the sources are identified

1.2 Information held by the organisation is acquired and reviewed to determine suitability and accessibility

1.3 Plans are prepared to obtain information which is not available/accessible within the organisation

2. Collect, analyse and report information

2.1 Collection of information is timely and relevant to the needs of teams

2.2 Information is in a format suitable for analysis, interpretation and dissemination

2.3 Information is analysed to identify and report relevant trends and developments in terms of the needs for which it was acquired

3. Use management information systems

3.1 Management information systems are used effectively to store and retrieve data for decision making

3.2 Technology available in the work area is used to manage information effectively

3.3 Recommendations for improving the information system are submitted to designated persons/groups

4. Prepare business plan/budgets

4.1 Teams are involved in business plans and/or budget preparation in a way which uses their contribution effectively and gains their support for the outcomes

4.2 Business plans and/or budgets are prepared and presented in accordance with the organisation’s guidelines and requirements

4.3 Contingency plans are prepared in the event that alternative action is required

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5. Prepare resource proposals

5.1 Resource planning data is collected in consultation with colleagues, including those who have a specialist role in resource management

5.2 Estimates of resource needs and use reflects the organisation’s business plans, and customer and supplier requirements

5.3 Proposals to secure resources are supported by clearly presented submissions describing realistic options, benefits, costs and outcomes

Evidence Guide

The Evidence Guide identifies the critical aspects, underpinning knowledge and skills to be demonstrated to confirm competence for this unit. This is an integral part of the assessment of competence and should be read in conjunction with the Range Statement.


Accesses, uses and communicates workplace information

Provides feedback on how to improve the management information system

Researches and prepares financial and resource plans/proposals

Underpinning Knowledge* Underpinning knowledge relates to the essential knowledge and understanding a person needs to perform work to the required standard

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Evidence Guide

* At this level the learner must demonstrate understanding of a broad knowledge base incorporating theoretical concepts, with substantial depth in some areas.

Relevant legislation from all levels of government that affects business operation, especially in regard to Occupational Health and Safety and environmental issues, equal opportunity, industrial relations and anti-discrimination

The principles and techniques of:

workplace information systems

business plans/budgets

resource proposals

The basic financial concepts in business plans/budgets

The methods to gain efficiencies in resource management

Underpinning Skills Functional literacy skills to access and use workplace information

Communication skills including information collection, analysis and interpretation and reporting

Identifying information requirements of the team

Managing information to achieve goals and results

Researching information

Improving information usage in decision making

Preparing information in a format for use by colleagues

Using coaching and mentoring skills to provide support to colleagues

Accessing technology to extract/input information


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information


Work with others and in

teams

Use mathematical


Solve problems

Use technology




Collecting, analysing and organising information – to contribute to the team’s information needs

Communicating ideas and information – with individuals and members of work team

Planning and organising activities – use of the management information system

Working with teams and others – to collect and prepare budget information

Using mathematical ideas and techniques – to make budget calculations

Solving problems – to access information not available in the organisation

Using technology – to assist the management of information

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Education

subject Outline