Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Unit

Synopsis

In this unit students consider the key production, consumption and policy debates concerning the popular music industries. It situates popular music as a significant part of the global media and cultural industries, examining a range of music-media activity, including music journalism; music radio; film soundtracks; music television; and music on the internet. A key theme of analysis is the changing roles of industry, audiences and governments regarding how and where popular music remains meaningful. The unit will also address contemporary intellectual property and other policy debates, and how the 'local' is situated within global music landscapes.

Objectives

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

1. An understanding of the key media studies, popular music and cultural studies theories associated with popular music activity;
2. An assessment of how popular music operates as part of local and global media and cultural industries;
3. An ability to critically and independently engage with key debates and issues within the popular music industries;
4. An ability to apply broader global concepts to distinct local contexts;
5. An ability to explain and analyse course concepts and debates in written and oral forms, and to engage at a high level of independent research.

Assessment

Essay I (theory and debates) (4000 words): 40%
Essay II (case study) (5000 words): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Shane Homan

Contact hours

One 2-hour seminar per week

Prerequisites

Completion of Bachelor of Arts or equivalent

Prohibitions

COM5240