COMMS 201
Journalism Studies
Please note: this is archived course information from 2018 for COMMS 201.
Description
The course introduces you to some of the key issues, debates and controversies in journalism studies today. It examines journalistic practices and their contexts largely from a theoretical perspective although there is a practical component to the class.
The course is organised into three blocks. The first looks at what journalism is, how it has changed through history and what it means to write the news. The second block explores the thought that being a journalist means holding and exercising a certain level of power over others. The third block is concerned with the modern challenges that journalism faces. It explores the profound impact of social, political and technological shifts (such as globalisation and tabloidisation) on journalism today.
In the next 12 weeks we will explore the role that journalism plays in society. In particular we will ask questions that address the relationship between news and power, race and ethnicity, gender, entertainment, online media, globalisation and social movement.
Course outcomes
By the end of this course you are expected to be familiar with the key debates surrounding the role that journalism plays in democratic societies. You should be able to reflect upon the challenges that modern journalism faces and think critically about the effects that technological, social and political change has on journalistic practices. You will acquire skills in critical thinking and academic literacy and learn the art of writing for the news.
Availability 2018
Semester 1
Lecturer(s)
Coordinator(s) Professor Annie Goldson
Points
COMMS 201: 15 points
Prerequisites
60 points at Stage I in BA courses
Restrictions
FTVMS 225
