ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with the need to improve the communications skills of graduates. The example focuses on information technology (IT) graduates, for whom prospective employers have demanded improved communication capabilities. Although discussed here within the context of IT graduates, the issue is one faced in all disciplines.
The Human Issues in Computing (HIC) unit was developed because an existing communications unit was universally disliked by staff and students, and the IT industry demanded improved communication skills among IT graduates.
HIC successfully introduces communication and groupwork skills for on-campus and distance students in the context of the legal, ethical and professional issues common to the IT industry in which the students will be seeking employment.
The author describes how IT (with which his students are very familiar) can be utilized, support and enhance learning.
