Undergraduate - UnitATS1304 - Contemporary television studies

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered, or view unit timetables.

Notes

Synopsis

Employing textual criticism, critical theory and theories of political economy, this unit will introduce a variety of approaches to the study of television. It will consider the phenomenon of television through a critical approach to the forms specific to broadcast television through an understanding of recent theories relating to popular culture. These include issues of history, genre, context , consumerism and audiences. Attention will also be given to the cultural and economic forces that shape and are reflected in the structuring of television programs and networks.

Outcomes

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

1. A critical understanding of forms specific to broadcast television;
2. An understanding of theories relating to popular culture as they inform television studies;
3. A knowledge of the cultural and economic forces which shape and are reflected in the structuring of Australian and wider television networks;
4. A knowledge of the issues of new media that problematise traditional television theory;
5. An ability to critically engage with written and televisual texts in a clear and confident manner in both written and oral presentation.

Assessment

Written work(2700 words): 60%
1 Hour visual test: 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Claire Perkins (Caulfield); Dr Claire Perkins(Clayton)

Contact hours

One 1- hour lecture per week
One 1- hour tutorial per week
One 2- hour screening per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Film and television studies