Understanding of relevant principles and theoretical frameworks behind issues/crisis communication.

For the Critical Analysis, your task is to analyse ONE case study. A selection of three possible case studies to choose from will be posted on Moodle approximately two weeks before the assessment deadline. This is intended to provide some semblance of the time pressure, spontaneity, and lack of foresight that properly characterise crises and issues. These case studies will be drawn from actual events, and will have occurred within the past three years. Case studies will be discussed in lectures throughout the semester. A suggested format is as follows: 1. Introduction. What’s the case study, and why is it relevant for issues/crisis communications? How are you tackling the topic (what is your methodology)? Do you have one or two effective research questions or hypotheses to apply? Is there a specific theoretical foundation (such as framing theory, IRT, SCCT, etc.) that you will use? 2. Overview. What are the key contexts? What are the most important developments? Which are the key aspects of the issues/crisis? Why? 3. Analysis/recommendations. What are the key mistakes and/or key successes with regards to communications strategy? Why? What would you recommend? What are your insights? How can you support your points with relevant facts, data, and/or theoretical frameworks? 4. Conclusion. What are the key takeaways? For the Critical Analysis, you will be required to adhere to proper academic conventions. You are expected to draw on the relevant readings and course materials. Use of external readings and sources as supplementary material will be of benefit. Assessment Criteria (Critical Analysis): • Ability to develop a clearly argued, well-researched, and conceptually solid perspective on your case study. • Ability to show a strong understanding of relevant principles and theoretical frameworks behind issues/crisis communication. • Ability to provide meaningful and properly supported analysis and/or recommendations. • Fluent and coherent written expression. • Accurate and properly presented referencing. • Professional visual presentation and formatting.