COM4002 - The first media age

Leader(s): Dr Tony Moore

Offered

City (Melbourne) First semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

In this subject we journey through the history of communications and media form the genesis of the mass circulation press development to the new media of the 21st century. The subject will provide students with an appreciation of how technological advances, decisions by policy-makers, and broader forces have influenced that evolution. In turn, the subject also provides students with a chance to consider how the media's coverage of important public debates and controversies has helped shape society. In the major research essay students will have the opportunity to investigate media coverage of a major issue or event in Australian history.

Objectives

Upon completion of this subject students should:

1. Have a broad overview of communications and media history.
2. Have an understanding of how technological advances, decisions by policy-makers, and broader forces have shaped that history.
3. Have an appreciation of how media coverage of watershed events and issues has influenced society.
4. Be able to conduct independent research.
5. Be able to write lucidly and with analytical depth.

Assessment

Class participation and attendance (1000 words equivalent): 10%; Seminar introduction (1000 words equivalent): 10%; 2 x Short essays (2000 words each): 40%; Major research essay (4000 words): 40%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week

Prohibitions

COM5002