An introduction to the multi-disciplinary nature of media studies including an exploration of the definitions of society, culture, the self, as well as an historical approach to human communications. Explores the impact of technological change on culture, especially Canadian culture, and the latest developments in information technologies (Internet, newsgroups, on-line publishing, e-mail). Lecture/discussion and computer lab.
Index of MEDI courses
MEDI 200
This course examines how selected media--mainly newspapers, magazines, television, and film--identify and address their audiences to represent significant social constructions: gender, ethnicity, and class. Participants will be challenged to distinguish between the representations of social issues in the media and their social realities.
MEDI 205
An examination of the rhetorical strategies and ideologies in promotional communications: advertising, public relations, political and public service announcements, billboards, news reporting, infomercials, popular performance art, and propaganda, as well as an exploration of commonly-held assumptions in communities of discourse. Assignments include case studies on propaganda campaigns.
Lecture/discussion.
MEDI 211
An examination of television as a medium of communication and an element of culture. In a given year, the focus of the course may be on television production and management in addition to an analysis of television's impact on culture. (3:0:0)
MEDI 301
This upper-level course explores media, its control and ownership, from a global perspective. Topics include: globalization; the public sphere; internet culture; patterns of ownership, control, and monopolization; alternative media; cultural imperialism; racism, assimilation, and creolization.
MEDI 302
This course examines the factors that shape the making of news within the context of journalistic practices, media ownership, and regulatory constraints. Examples will be drawn from Canadian and international sources. Students will also consider questions of journalistic style and ethics. Assignments will include case studies, feature writing, and audience research.
MEDI 311
This upper-level course focuses on film as medium. Through an examination of films about film-making, students will explore the narrative, documentary, and propagandistic powers of film.
MEDI 312
An examination of the remarkable contribution of Canadian communications theorists who have established a rich tradition of inquiry into the political, social, economic, and artistic significance of communication technology, especially as related to Canadian society. Theorists include Harold Adams Innis, Marshall McLuhan, George Grant, Edmund Carpenter, Wilson Duff, Joyce Nelson, Arthur and Marilouise Kroker among others.
Lecture/discussion.
MEDI 401
Beginning with a survey of the powerful role public relations and promotion play in contemporary society, this upper-level course explores how different media may be used for advocacy and social activism. As a major assignment, students will analyze accessible media, and design a campaign to promote an issue of concern to them.
MEDI 402
Explores the complex relationship between technology and changing notions of identity. Taking as a starting point McLuhan's contention that media act as extensions of the human sensorium, including consciousness, students will consider how media and other technologies influence how we define ourselves, our social relations, and our cultural institutions.
kgfkgfkjghjhg