Undergraduate - UnitATS1902 - News media and social theory

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Synopsis

This subject introduces the intellectual and social history of ideas and practices that underpin contemporary debates and research about the role of news and information media in society. Starting with the Enlightenment, it explores debates about the circulation of information, freedom of expression and their role in constituting political, cultural and economic relations. It explores and compares a range of theoretical approaches and their critiques, including liberalism, marxism, materialist and discursive paradigms, and locates them within their historical and geographic social contexts.

Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. demonstrate a satisfactory knowledge of the unit subject matter;
2. demonstrate a capacity to make effective usage in written and oral presentation of the relevant academic literature;
3. demonstrate an ability to research, discuss and analyse issues in a clear, concise and rigorous way;
4. collaborate constructively with fellow students in learning and discussion processes, including online forums;
5. produce their written work to deadline making effective use of the conventions of scholarly presentation (references, bibliography, etc);
6. work independently and in groups to achieve their learning outcomes;
7. demonstrate a critical awareness of the strengths, limitations and socio-professional implications of scholarly practice in journalism studies.

Assessment

Minimum requirement: Attendance and participation
Minor Project (invigilated, 1600 words): 40%
Class presentation and report (invigilated, 1000 words): 20%
Major project (2000 words): 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Philip Chubb

Contact hours

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

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

Journalism Studies

Prerequisites

ATS1901