• MED2021
• Introduction to Media Theory

This module offers an introduction to key questions in media theory and research. At the heart of the module is a concern with how we interact with media, and how this shapes our society, culture and everyday lives. It will begin by introducing some of the dominant concerns in how we research and understand media. The module will outline the ways that theoretical outlooks have had to change in response to new media forms. The entire module will explore the convergence of medium theory, political economy and audience studies. The module will also serve as an introduction to essential skills in research and essay writing.

Media convergence and a convergence of theoretical understanding
The ?effects' of mass media
Propaganda
Marxist media theory
Two-Step Flow and models of socially mitigated effects
Medium theory
The Political Economy of Media
Media Production Processes, Form and Content
Semiotic textual analysis and content analysis
Reception Analysis: The Active Audience.