An historical investigation of American mass media and the philosophies and concepts underlying their development from colonial to present times.
This course examines American mass media development and history as a product of the social, cultural, historical, and political environment unique to America. The course incorporates analysis and discussion of significant events, personalities, and issues affecting mass media's development as well as its role in reporting those events. The course outline is as follows:
This course is taught primarily through the lecture/discussion methods. Emphasis throughout the course is placed on weaving the mass media's growth and changes into the fabric of the nation's development as a democracy and as a diverse and culturally-rich society. Whenever possible, the course utilizes primary sources (newspapers, magazines, audio and videotapes) from the periods and events under investigation to encourage students to critically evaluate the media in their proper context. Students engage in historical research using primary and secondary sources for some assignments.
Completion of 45 hours.