VSA2770

Television studies

Constantine Verevis and Deane Williams

8 points
* 4 hours per week
* First semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: At least one of VSA1040, VSA1050, VSA2190 or VSA2220 or VSA2240

Objectives By the completion of this subject students will be expected to demonstrate a critical understanding of forms specific to broadcast television; an understanding of theories relating to popular culture as they inform television studies; an ability to engage with written and televisual texts in a clear and confident manner.

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 opera and advertising. Consideration will also be given to aspects of public and pay television systems as they operate 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%

Recommended texts

Allen R Channels of discourse, reassembled: Television and contemporary criticism Routledge, 1992
Deinst R Still life in real time: Theory after television Duke U P, 1994
Millencamp P (ed.) The logics of television: Essay in cultural criticism Indiana U P, 1990
O'Regan T Australian television culture Allen and Unwin, 1993
Sinclair J, Jacka E, Cunningham S New patterns in global television: Peripheral vision OUP, 1996