FTM4230 - Critical studies in television

Leader(s): Therese Davis

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

Television has had a profound impact on human sense perception, resulting in radical changes to our experience of space and time This unit investigates a range of theories and critical approaches that have been developed to help us understand the complex relationship between television - as form, technique and technology - and contemporary forms of experience, such as distraction, despatialisation, boredom and compassion fatigue. It identifies questions of memory and history as key issues in the debates that have emerged around these changes to experience. Investigation of this topic is grounded in close analysis of a diverse group of contemporary TV programs and local and global TV events.

Objectives

By the completion of this unit students will be expected to demonstrate: 1) a good knowledge of the main theories and critical approaches to the relationship between television and experience developed in the past 15 years; 2) an in-depth understanding of the relationship between television and contemporary forms of experience as they relate to issues of memory and history; 3) an ability to apply relevant theories and critical approaches in close analysis of specific forms of television; 4) a high level of ability in engaging with written and visual (screen) texts in a clear and confident manner in both written and oral presentation; 5) development of research skills in data collection. An additional objective for fifth-year students is: 6) a deeper understanding of theoretical debates in the field of television studies, specifically at it applies to questions of memory and history.

Assessment

Written work: 80% (7000 words)
Participation and paper: 20%

Contact hours

One 2-hour seminar and one 2-hour screening per week

Prerequisites

Honours degree (or equivalent) in Film and Television or approved discipline