Programme
Study Abroad: Australia
- Module 57013: Journalism Studies
- Location: University of Technology Sydney
- Professor: Prof Wendy Bacon with Dr Catriona Bonfiglioli
- Duration: 14 weeks.
- Credits: 10 ECTS
Overview
The aim of this subject is to explore the scholarly debates that address news organisations, journalism practices, and the processes of production and consumption of news and current affairs. A comparative theoretical approach is used to critically examine questions about journalism, both from the point of view of those involved in producing media products and from the point of view of audiences.
The subject considers the relationship between the media and ideas about democracy, and the relevance of media theory for professional journalism. This subject explores current scholarship about journalism practice, and develops students’ capacities to undertake research in journalism studies.
A range of theoretical approaches to the study of journalism and its social context is examined. At all points, a major concern is the implications of journalism theory and research for professional practice as journalists by ourselves and other journalists, and for audiences.
Learning Outcomes
- demonstrate a critical understanding of journalism in society, and of contemporary debates about journalism practice
- apply some of the major scholarly approaches to researching and thinking about journalism
- contribute constructively and critically to face-to-face and online discussions of the subject matter of the course
- produce written work for assessment that demonstrates a critical knowledge of the major scholarly debates in journalism studies, and a capacity to apply those debates to original research in the field.
Contribution to graduate profile
- a knowledge and critical understanding of the media
- a knowledge of the historical, philosophical, ethical and cultural foundations underpinning journalism and you strive to promote the important role of professional and ethical journalism in the service of the public
- an understanding of the role of the media in local, regional, national and global contexts
- an understanding of the relationship between media theory and practice
- a critical understanding of issues of gender, race, ethnicity, disability and class and the way these are linked to issues of media representation, production and reception
- an understanding and commitment to ethical journalism professional practice.
Methods of Assessment
The weekly classes consist of two parts: one or two lectures and a seminar with discussion of the lecture, readings and case studies and student presentations. Progress of students on their assessment tasks will be discussed and assisted during class.
Readings for each week will cover a variety of analytical perspectives in order to develop a critical understanding of the way scholars think about journalism studies. As well as face-to-face activities, learning in this subject involves participating in a range of online activities with your fellow students and teachers.
Content
- What Is Journalism Studies?
- Truth, Objectivity And Facticity
- Audiences And Social Diversity
- Professional Identities And Cultural Capital
- Professionalism And Cultural Capital
- Regulation Of The Profession
- Media Power
- Negotiating Power Relations – Sources
- News As Narrative
Assessment
- Assessment 1: Participation in online discussion group
- Weight: 30%
- Task: Cumulative contribution of at least 2000 words in at least four distinct postings per student, the first one to be posted by 15 August and thereafter at least one every two weeks.
- Assessment 2: Oral and written presentation of progress report on research essay
- Weight: 20% of final mark (10% by tutor for written report, 10% by anonymous peer assessment for summary and class presentation)
- Task: One-page summary, tutorial presentation and written report of 1000 words per student
- Assessment 3: 2500-3000 word research essay
- Weight: 50%
- Task: Students are expected to demonstrate their capacity to synthesise the material studied during the semester and to apply it as appropriate to a research project.
