Description:

Examines the structure and operation of American mass media, including television, radio, newspapers, magazines, and film. Students analyze media influence on society and the relationships among media, audience, and government. Same as AMST 150. Either CMST& 102 (prev COMM 150) or AMST 150 may be taken for credit, not both.

Outcomes:

After completing this class, students should be able to:

• Analyze the impact of media messages on American culture, values, and political process.
• Demonstrate understanding of the historical and economic forces that shaped and continue to shape mass media.
• Explain the legal rationale for licensing and/or censoring certain media.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the First Amendment and crucial court decisions which have expanded or limited its protections, the difference between broadcast and cable television, the unrestricted nature of the Internet, etc.
• Compare and contrast American commercial media system with non-commercial media in the United States and other countries.
• Analyze how content is shaped by the nature of particular media.
• Demonstrate critical use of various media.
• Demonstrate an ability to use media effectively to communicate with a particular audience.