Key facts
UNE unit code: CRIM233
*You are viewing the 2024 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2024
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
Throughout history there have often been 'moral panics' associated with serial killers, and a longstanding tradition of social fascination with these figures.
In this unit you will critically examine the social construction of serial killers.
Examining the source of fascination, this unit will use various case studies of serial offenders to analyse how police have investigated these crimes; how the offenders have subsequently been treated by the criminal justice system; and how offenders have been portrayed.
You will assess the construction and representations of such figures, including media coverage and 'dark tourism' and analyse ways that offenders have been understood and regarded, and how this has influenced criminal justice practice.
You will also explore public fascination with serial killers, and how this manifests in different leisure and tourism activities for people, ranging from documentaries to real life ghost tours.
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- critically analyse the various components of serial crime and serial criminals and public fascination within these aspects;
- articulate and assess how serial offenders and serial crime have become a leisure activity;
- apply and assess how serial crimes are investigated and prosecuted;
- evaluate accuracy and misrepresentation in sources used to present case studies of serial offenders; and
- model research, analysis, and communication skills that contribute to life-long application in a professional career.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online Quiz | Yes | 25% | All offerings | No. Words: 1250 (equivalent) |
| Online Quiz | Yes | 25% | All offerings | No. Words: 1250 (equivalent) |
| Oral Presentation | No | 10% | All offerings | No. Words: 750 (equivalent) |
| Written Assessment | Yes | 40% | All offerings | No. Words: 2000 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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