COM5303 - International Field Trip in Media and Communications

Leader(s): Dr Mark Gibson

Offered

Not offered in 2009

Synopsis

The unit will involve a study tour of major international media organizations, with some attention also to alternative media. The destination will vary from year to year, being either New York or London. Students will draw on background knowledge and skills in analysis gained from their first year of study, gaining the opportunity to test them against real world examples. The unit will have a strong element of experiential learning, through seeing the insides of media organizations and having direct contact with those who work in them. At the same time, it will mobilise scholarly inputs.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. demonstrate an understanding of the internal organization and culture of media organisations with a significant presence in international communication;
2. demonstrate an appreciation of the complex 'ecology' of a major international media centre, gaining the ability to see lateral connections between different organisations;
3. demonstrate skills in direct observation of media industries, as a complement to reading and scholarship in the area; demonstrate an awareness of international contexts in communications and media studies;
4. have substantial confidence in approaching and working with individuals and organisations at the cutting edge of international communications and media.

Assessment

Site brief (2000 words): 20%
Site log (3000 words): 30%
Major essay (4000 words): 50%

Prerequisites

Completion of first year sequence of Master of Communications and Media Studies (24 credit points)