This course is intended to provide an informed and critical evaluation of media's influence and effects by systematically investigating the content of media messages, the nature of individuals and audiences, and the mechanisms involved in various types of media effects. It will introduce students to basic concepts in social science research and communication study, briefly review the history of media research, and examine some of the most common types of media effects. In its survey of media effects, the course will cover many prominent communication theories that help to explain the who, what, where, and why of media influence. The goal is for students to have deeper understanding of the extensiveness and limitations of media effects and to be able to critically assess claims of media impact.
Programme: CS
This course is intended to provide an informed and critical evaluation of media's influence and effects by systematically investigating the content of media messages, the nature of individuals and audiences, and the mechanisms involved in various types of media effects. It will introduce students to basic concepts in social science research and communication study, briefly review the history of media research, and examine some of the most common types of media effects. In its survey of media effects, the course will cover many prominent communication theories that help to explain the who, what, where, and why of media influence. The goal is for students to have deeper understanding of the extensiveness and limitations of media effects and to be able to critically assess claims of media impact.