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Undergraduate | CUR-PWP220-2023

Tricks of Truth and Authenticity

Examine real-world hoaxes and cases of fraud or false identity in publications. Consider a gamut of cultural, ethical and legal issues when writing. Tackle copyright and plagiarism. Champion the value of truth in your professional writing practice.

Enrol today with instant approval and no entry requirements

Study method

100% online

Assessments

100% online

Entry requirements

No ATAR needed

No prior study

Duration

13 weeks

Start dates

  • 29 May 2023

Price from

$1,892

Upfront cost

$0

HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available

About this subject

What you'll learn

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

  1. analyse and communicate the implications of historical and contemporary controversies over truth and authenticity in publishing
  2. examine the role of cultural difference in issues of authenticity and deception in writing
  3. evaluate the cultural, ethical and legal issues entailed in writing for publication.
    • Introduction to truth and authenticity in writing
    • Authorial identity
    • Copying the copy: authenticity and post-modernity
    • Authorising networks
    • Author and authenticity: representing authorial identity
    • Anonymity and pseudonymity
    • Hoaxes, pranks and stunts
    • Copyright
    • Defamation
    • Plagiarism
    • Free speech and censorship
  • This subject was previously known as Writing, Deception and Authenticity.

    This subject explores issues of truth and authenticity in professional writing and publishing, providing students with an understanding of the cultural, ethical and legal issues of writing for publication. Historical and contemporary cases of fraud, faked identity, plagiarism, hoax, the role of the author and the blurring of genre boundaries are used to highlight the professional and personal responsibilities and dilemmas of writing and publishing in the public domain.

    Please Note:  If it’s your first time studying a Curtin University subject you’ll need to complete their compulsory ‘Academic Integrity Program’. It only takes two hours to complete online, and provides you with vital information about studying with Curtin University. The Academic Integrity Program is compulsory, so if it’s not completed your subject grades will be withheld.

    Find out more about the Academic Integrity module.

    • Presentation (25%)
    • Short essay (30%)
    • Long essay (45%)
  • For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).

  • Start your career with Curtin’s globally recognised courses and extensive industry connections. Through OUA, their online courses offer an interactive and collaborative learning experience that gets you the same degree as if you studied on campus. Curtin is a global university with a vibrant culture of innovation and collaboration and is ranked in the top one per cent of universities worldwide.

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    Times Higher Education Ranking 2023: 11

Entry requirements

No entry requirements

Others

Note: Level 2 subjects normally assume an introductory level of prior knowledge in this area, e.g. from studying related Level 1 subjects or other relevant experience.

Student feedback

8 student respondents between: 22 Aug - 09 Sept 2022.

7-9 hourswas the average study commitment per week

100%of students felt the study load was manageable

87%of students felt this subject helped them gain relevant skills

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