Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Synopsis Employing textual criticism, critical theory and political economy, the subject will survey a variety of approaches to the study of television. We will consider the phenomena of television through a critical approach to the forms specific to broadcast television. These include television news, current affairs programs, adult soap opers and advertising. Consideration will also be given to aspects of public and pay television systems as they operate in the local setting to explore Australia's position in relation to notions of nationalism within both the global broadcast and community television spheres. The subject will also examine issues of new media that problematise traditional television theory through an understanding of theories relating to popular culture. Attention will also be given to the cultural and economic forces which shape and are reflected in the structuring of Australian and wider television networks, and topics for special study will include issues of gender, race relations and consumerism.
Assessment First essay (2000 words): 35% + Second essay (3000 words): 45% + Visual test (1 hour): 20%