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The Media in Australia

Unit Code: HAM405




Duration

Contact Hours

Campus

Prerequisite

Corequisite

1 Semester

3 Hours per Week

Hawthorn

Nil

Credit Points: 12.5 Credit Points


Related Course/s:

Aims & Objectives:

This unit of study is an introduction to some of the major historical and contemporary issues in broadcasting as a medium of mass communication, primarily in an Australian context.

Teaching Methods:

Lectures and Tutorials

Assessment:

Major essay, journal, attendance, participation, tests, group assignment work

Content:

This unit of study examines the political context of broadcasting institutions, public and private, and their relationship with other social institutions. Key political, social and ethical issues associated with the media are canvassed, such as the ownership and control of radio, television stations, newspapers and Pay TV, the regulatory climate, accountability in programming, relationships to audiences and journalistic practices and ethics. Vexed issues, such as media freedom and reform, public participation in ownership and programming, regulatory changes in broadcasting, and professional journalistic standards are discussed from a range of perspectives.

Recommended Reading:

Cunningham, S & Turner, G, The Media and Communications in Australia, Allen Unwin, Sydney, 2002.
Ward, I, Politics of the Media, MacMillan, Melbourne, 1995.