Course Resources Archive

This module is will provide an opportunity to critically examine a range of theoretical themes and concepts in depth. Links between theory and practice will be developed along four key lines of debate: democracy, globalisation, technology and popular culture.

Each of the four main themes above should be seen as stages of learning that build on each other but are also circular, with debates surrounding ‘the popular’, arguably, feeding back into the role of news as a servant of democracy.  In between, the globalisation and technological elements can be seen as interconnecting, as ongoing advances in technology allow a form of global news coverage.  Further, new ways of producing and receiving news, through citizen journalism, blogging, twitter and other forms, is itself a global phenomenon and will be examined in depth.  

Within this context, the module will explore issues such as: the importance of news as a servant of democracy (locally, nationally and internationally); the global homogenisation of news; the role of the individual/independent, online news provider; and the impact of increasing ‘tabloidisation’ of news formats.

On successful completion of the module the student should be able to:

i. Make informed connections between the four main themes underpinning the module
ii. Demonstrate a critical understanding of a range of news stories within the wider context of globalisation
iii. Evaluate the role of news as a provider of information from around the world within the context of ever changing technological developments
iv. Produce written work that communicates ideas effectively within a coherent and persuasive argument
v. Work autonomously and with others and be able to share ideas relevant to the course with confidence, in both formal and informal learning contexts

Staff/student contact: approx 24 hours (lectures, tutorials, student-led workshops)
Independent Study: approx 126 hours

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.