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COM*101 - Intro to Mass Communication

Jennifer Thomassen, Instructor, 906-5016, Office 1028

Prerequisitee
 ENG 101, "Composition"

Catalog Course Description:
 This course begins with a review of basic communication theory, followed by exploration of the history and nature of mass communication in American society. Topics include the technological development and business structure of print and electronic media, media professions, government regulation of the mass media, and the media's impact on culture and society. Special emphasis will be placed on how digital technology and the Internet continue to affect traditional mass media processes and forms.

Objectives

To demonstrate an understanding of:

Students will:

As measured by:

The Communication process and Communication settings

  1. Read all assigned material from textbooks, handouts, on-line course homepages, or Library resources

  2. Prepare brief presentations on assigned subject material

Written in-class quizzes, tests, and examinations; presentations to the class; out-of-class projects; written reports; class participation; attendance; homework assignments.

The history, nature, and structure of various media industries

  1. Read all assigned material from textbooks, handouts, on-line course homepages, or Library resources

  2. Prepare brief presentations on media forms

  3. Write brief profiles on local media organizations, giving business history, indication of ownership, estimated audience, etc.

  4. Attend required field trips (if scheduled) to media organizations in Downtown Hartford

Written in-class quizzes, tests, and examinations; presentations to the class; out-of-class projects; written reports; class participation; attendance; homework assignments.

The effects of mass media on culture and society

  1. Participate in classroom discussions

  2. Conduct research on a particular mass media effect (i.e. entertainment television's casting of minority characters, etc.) and present results to the class

A written, well-researched term paper discussing a particular mass media effect

 

Updated 07/18/2012