Mass Media and Society
PROFESSOR:
Dr. J. Wayne Rinks. Office: LA 3083;
wrinks@usi.edu
DESCRIPTION:
This course examines the relationships between the organization of modern
society and its communication media. Special emphasis is given to the way in
which cultural and social changes have an impact upon the mass media and upon
the way in which the media influence cultural development and social change.
Three hours credit. Senior standing or consent of the University Core Curriculum
Coordinator.
APPROACH:
Class sessions will consist of a combination of lecture and class participation.
Students are required to complete assigned readings prior to each class meeting,
to take part in class discussion, and to read their papers when called upon.
Relevant videos and outside readings will be presented to the class.
GOALS:
This is a Synthesis Course (Core Curriculum, Category D). Students should be
able to draw on their educational experiences to develop interdisciplinary
responses to the problems and issues of contemporary life, as presented in this
course. They should explore the factors that influence these problems and
issues, suggest alternative solutions, and identify ways in which they might
contribute toward the resolution of these problems and issues.
TEXT:
Grossberg, Lawrence. Mediamaking, Second Edition.
REQUIREMENTS:
There are two exams for the course. Each exam will consist of objective
questions and an essay question or questions. Three-four short papers (3 to 5
pages each) will be required for the course. Papers will be evaluated on both
content and style (grammar, sentence structure, etc.). Selected student papers
will be presented to the class by the authors. Each student will present papers
during this course. All exams, papers, and presentations must be completed to
pass this course. Attendance and participation are required.
Several additional readings will be assigned and will be covered on the exams.
Exam one = 300 points
Exam two = 300 points
Small papers = 400 points
Total = 1000 points
GRADING:
100%-90% = A; 89%-85% = B+; 84-80 = B; 79%-75% = C+
74%-70% = C; 69%-65% = D+; 64%-60% = D; Less than 60% = F
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