ATS1280 - Understanding the media - 2017

The media play a central role in all aspects of contemporary life. This unit provides an introduction to the field of media studies by investigating a variety of media forms - from film and radio to video games and social media - with a particular focus on the technological and industrial circumstances that have produced them. Students will be encouraged to reflect upon the role of communication technologies in their own lives and analyse their own experiences as media consumers and producers.

Upon successful completion of the unit students will be able to:

1. identify and explain the economic, technological and cultural influence of the media in their own and others' lives;
2. analyse a selection of different approaches to the study of media;
3. analyse and critically reflect upon areas of industry and community life where the study of the media is applicable and relevant;
4. work collaboratively to formulate and present solutions to research questions.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Dr Daniel Black

Communications and media studies

ATS1278, AZA1280