Monash College Handbook

INTRODUCTION TO COMMUNICATION STUDIES (MCD6050)

Purpose

This subject focuses on uses of mass communications technologies and the institutional contexts in which they are used. In particular, this subject analyses the relations between media texts and technologies, the identities and capacities of producers, audiences, and regulators. Areas of study include telephony, radio, screen, print and digital communications technologies, with a particular emphasis on aspects of historical development and contemporary technological convergence.

Prerequisites

Nil

Learning outcomes

On completion of this subject students should be able to:

1. Use the practical skills of reading, note taking and arguing in exploring critical perspectives on communication.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the theoretical frameworks and conceptual tools for describing the development of communications systems.
3. Apply tools for analysing the social and political uses of communications technologies.
4. Recognise 'communication' as an active production and negotiation of meanings, not just the transmission of information.
5. Identify relations between media texts and technologies, the identities and capacities of producers and audiences, and the aspirations of governments and other social actors.

Assessment

Presentation – 10%
Minor essay – 15%
Major essay – 25%
Web CT Log – 10%
Participation – 10%
Exam – 30%

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