This course will provide an introduction to social impact assessment (SIA) during the various stages of the project cycle. Social impacts assessment will be examined in relation to infrastructure, resource extraction, development projects, corporate activities and climate change. Alternative approaches to the assessment of impacts on livelihood, institutions, social structure, equity, culture and quality of life will be examined. The course will place a strong emphasis on practical case studies and students will be given opportunities to explore alternative impact assessment approaches in a number of sectors and within different national jurisdictions.

Students who satisfy the requirements of this course will have the following knowledge and skills:

• Awareness of the legislative and policy environment for social impact assessment
• Ability to contribute to the design of a social impact study.
• Ability to contribute to undertaking a social impact study.
• Ability to critically assess social impact studies.

Participation 20%; First Essay 30%; Second Essay 50%

In Semester 2 2008 this course will be provided with some online delivery (with all lectures and course material provided via WebCT). Students doing the course on-campus will be required to attend weekly 2-hour workshops. Off-campus students will be required to participate in online discussions. Students will need to nominate their mode of study in Week 1.

Students enrolled in an ANU or equivalent Masters program are eligible to enroll.

High speed internet access is required to access online course materials.

Delivery Mode:

Semester 2

This course is provided through flexible delivery to both on campus and off campus students. Students doing the course on-campus will be required to attend weekly 2-hour workshops. Off-campus students will be required to participate in online discussions.