Description:
This course examines the nature and impact of the media of mass communication in society. Particular attention is paid to emerging media technology, including the Internet and other digital technologies. Students learn four primary ways new technology influences media and society, including 1) how media professionals and members of the public increasingly create content using new media technologies, 2) the nature of mediated content, 3) the relationships between and among media and relevant publics, and 4) the structure, culture and management of media organizations and systems. Students learn five areas of media technology, including 1) acquisition tools, 2) storage technologies, 3) processing devices, 4) distribution technologies and 5) display, access or presentation tools.
This course examines how media theory can be used to explain the communicative power of citizens, journalists and politicians in the era of mainstream media, and today as American politics has been “rebooted” with the digital revolution.
Learning Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Contrast and compare how major theories in the field of media studies are being recast for the digital age.
- Analyze how journalists, politicians, and media consultants are changing their practice in light of today’s multiple media platforms.
- Evaluate the style and social value of online political media in light of these changes.