Media and Society
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| CULT1009 | Cultural, Media and Visual Studies | 1 | 20 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- CULT1009
- School
- Cultural, Media and Visual Studies
- Level
- 1
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
This module critically examines the social forces that have shaped the emergence of different media, with a specific focus on the mass media of the press, broadcasting and the internet. It explores key debates surrounding the development, composition and function of these different media forms. Lectures will place the development of these media within an historical context, examining the social, political, economic and cultural conditions that shaped the evolution of the press, broadcasting and the internet, focusing on the UK. The module will consider the extent to which the development of these media in the UK has been tied to debates about democracy and will ask whether new technologies such as the internet offer the potential to widen democratic participation. You will be introduced to a range of theoretical approaches to understanding the production, content and reception of media messages, with a particular focus on the social and political role of the mass media.
A single coursework assessment will replace all failed assessment components at the reassessment stage.
Target Students
Only available for International Media and Communication Studies students, Film and Television Studies students, Liberal Arts students and Exchange students
Classes
- One 1-hour seminar each week for 11 weeks
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 11 weeks
The School of Cultures, Languages and Area Studies operates an attendance policy. The details of this policy can be found in the student handbook on Workspace and in module handbooks.
Assessment
- 100% Coursework: Coursework - 3,000 words portfolio of written work and equivalent
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
To provide a sound knowledge and critical understanding of the different factors underlying the development of the press, broadcasting and the internet. To develop analytical and conceptual skills in writing on theoretical and substantive issues concerned with the social and political role of the mass media. To advance students through theoretical debates on the relationship between the mass media and centres of political and economic power.To impart the knowledge required to understand the social forces and processes underlying the production of media texts.Learning Outcomes
- To understand the key social forces which have shaped the emergence of different media.
- To comprehend how media are embedded within different political, social and economic frameworks.
- To identify and assess the potential of new technologies such as the internet to widen democratic participation.
- To understand a broad range of arguments around the production, content and reception of media messages.