Introduction To Mass Communication

Introduction to Mass Communication surveys the basic factors affecting mass communication in the digital age, including theories and models of communication, the relationship between mass media and society, and history, technology, and trends in newspapers, radio, television, film, books, the Internet, advertising, public relations, visual messages, media law, and ethics. 

COURSE AIM

This course is aimed at:

1. Creating awareness of important themes underlying the mass media industries.
2. Understanding how digital media is changing the nature and focus of traditional mass media.
3. Understanding crucial terms and concepts underlying the process of media creation.
4. Discussing media-related news in terms of its cultural, social, ethical, political and economic significance.
5. Considering the influence of mass media both nationally and globally.
6.  Familiarizing with crucial events in the history of the mass media.
7. Working collaboratively to develop skills of critical thinking and analysis.
8. Practicing skills necessary to make effective oral presentations.

EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the course unit students should be able to:

Communication process

·      Elements in communication process

·      Communication settings

Mass communication process

·      Nature of mass communication

·      Characteristics of mass communicator

·      Changes in mass communication process

·      Functions of mass communication (micro and macro level)

Mass media

·      Types of mass media

·      Mass media trends

Influences of the media

·      Economic

·      Political

·      Social

Theories of mass communication

·      Normative theories of the press

·      Media effects theories

TEACHING - LEARNING METHODS

• Lectures
• Reading assignments
• Practical assignments
• Field trips
• Documentaries

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS AND / OR EQUIPMENT

• Whiteboard and Markers
• Flip Charts
• LCD Projectors
• CDs, DVDs and Tapes

•   Identify, explain and utilize mass communication theories, trends, processes and models
• Discuss various aspects of mass media, including historical development, the changes in those developments and the impact they have on consumers
• Critically analyze the way in which mass communication media have influenced individual and mass consciousness