COM 254 - Mass Media

Description
This course is designed to enhance the understanding of the role played by mass media in society. Throughout the course the history and development of both print and broadcast media as well as computer-driven media is covered through readings, class discussion, videos, and possibly guest speakers from the media. The focus also includes an examination of the role and function of the news media, advertising and public relations, and the ethical implications of both entertainment and journalism. This course was formerly offered as JR 254.

Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
Prerequisites/Other Requirements: None
English Prerequisite(s): None
Math Prerequisite(s): None
Course Corequisite(s): None
Academic Program Prerequisite: None
Consent to Enroll in Course: No Department Consent Required
Dual Enrollment Allowed?: Yes
Number of Times Course can be taken for credit: 1
Programs Where This Course is a Requirement:
None

General Education Requirement:
None
General Education Learner Outcomes (GELO):
NA
Course Learning Outcomes:

Recognize the gatekeeping role played by the news media.
Describe how various media have developed and been adopted by the public.
Analyze the impact of broadcast media on individuals and society.
Evaluate the ethical choices broadcasters and journalists make.
Analyze both print and broadcast news through content analysis.
Analyze the impact on society of printed material, including magazines, books, and newspaper.
Assess the impact on individuals and society of advertising, public relations, and movies.
Create a written summary of the main ideas extracted from information gathered.
Clearly and completely state and describe a problem/issue.
Complete work accurately, with attention to detail.

Course Outline:
I. The Changing Media

A. The Media in Our Lives

B. Changing Media Throughout History

C. Changing Conceptions of the Media

II. Media Theory

A. Media Economics

B. Critical and Cultural Studies

C. Societal Functions of the Media

D. Behavioral Theories

III. Books and Magazines

IV. Newspapers

V. Radio and Recorded Music

VI. Film and Home Video

VII. Television

VIII. The Internet

IX. The Communications Infrastructure

X. Public Relations

XI. Advertising

XII. Media Impacts

A. Studying Media Impacts

B. Theories of Media Impacts

C. Media and antisocial behavior

D. Communications Media and Prosocial Behavior

E. Understanding Societal Impacts

XIII. Media Policy and Law

XIV. Media Ethics

XV. Globilization of Communications Media

Approved for Online and Hybrid Delivery?:
Yes
Instructional Strategies:
Lecture: 35-40%

Facilitated discussion: 10-20%

Video and mediated discussion: 25-30%

Group work and discussion: 10-20%
Mandatory Course Components:
None
Equivalent Courses:
None

Name of Industry Recognize Credentials: None

Course-Specific Placement Test: None
Course Aligned with ARW/IRW Pairing: N/A

Mandatory Department Assessment Measures:
None

Course Type:
Elective- Offering designed to expand learning opportunities for degree seeking students. May or may not be required for students in a specific GRCC program.
Course Format:
Lecture - 1:1
Total Lecture Hours Per Week: 3
People Soft Course ID Number: 100728
Course CIP Code: 09.01
Maximum Course Enrollment: 25
General Room Request: None

School: School of Liberal Arts
Department: Language & Thought
Discipline: COM
Faculty Credential Requirements:
18 graduate credit hours in discipline being taught (HLC Requirement), Master’s Degree (GRCC general requirement)
Faculty Credential Requirement Details:
Preferred MA degree in Communication Studies, Journalism, or Media Studies. In addition to academic background and degree, equivalent experience (e.g., work experience, relevant certifications) may be considered as well.

Major Course Revisions: N/A
Last Revision Date Effective: 20230223T14:27:21
Course Review & Revision Year: 2027-2028