2016/17 Undergraduate Module Catalogue
COMM1960 Studying Media
20 creditsClass Size: 60
Module manager: Dr Leslie Meier
Email: l.meier@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2016/17
This module is not approved as a discovery module
Objectives
The purpose of this module is to:- Introduce students to a range of media and communication studies approaches, drawing on scholarship on media industries, texts, audiences, and histories;
- Examine critical perspectives on and debates regarding the production, circulation, and reception of media;
- Facilitate the development of independent research skills; and
- Familiarise students with the fundamentals of academic argumentation and critical analysis.
Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, students will be able to:
1. Identify how key concepts, critical perspectives, and methodological approaches are used in contemporary media and communication scholarship
2. Critically evaluate scholarly arguments and research methods
3. Apply media and communication theory to the analysis of a chosen media text, industry, or audience
4. Use theory and media analysis to present an argument about a media text
5. Present research findings in the form of an academic essay
Skills outcomes
Students will begin to develop the critical thinking, reading, academic writing, and independent research skills fundamental to subsequent study in the BA Communication and Media.
Syllabus
This module offers students an introductory survey to media and communication studies. It examines various social, cultural, technological, political, and economic forces that shape the roles assumed by media in contemporary society by engaging with critical scholarship on media industries, texts, audiences, and histories. Key concepts and debates are explored in relation to a range of media institutions and forms, including: print media, radio, television, advertising, film, popular music, digital gaming, and the internet.
Teaching methods
Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
Lecture | 11 | 2.00 | 22.00 |
Seminar | 10 | 1.00 | 10.00 |
Private study hours | 168.00 | ||
Total Contact hours | 32.00 | ||
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200.00 |
Private study
Students will be expected to dedicate private study time to: reading required texts and completing assigned tasks in preparation for weekly lectures and seminars (approximately 56 hours); and researching, preparing, and writing two essays (approximately 112 hours).Opportunities for Formative Feedback
Students will receive ongoing formative feedback via participation in seminar discussions and activities. Progress also will be monitored through feedback on the first assessed essay, which students will submit mid-way through the module.Methods of assessment
Coursework
Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
Essay | 1 x 2,000 - 2,500 word essay | 40.00 |
Essay | 1 x 3,000 - 3,500 word essay | 60.00 |
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100.00 |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 23/02/2017
Browse Other Catalogues
- Undergraduate module catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate module catalogue
- Undergraduate programme catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate programme catalogue
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