Available in 2024
Course code

CMNS1234

Units

10 units

Level

1000 level

Course handbook

Description

This foundational survey course introduces students to major perspectives used in communication studies and gives an introduction to the basic communication models, key terms and concepts used in the discipline. It introduces students to a broad range of theories in order to evaluate communication and media in its many forms and investigate its relationship to society and culture. Particular attention will be paid to communication functions, structures, audiences, news, media effects, advertising and propaganda, intersecting narratives such as gender, race and class that occur in communication contexts, as well as international and global communication, ideology and popular culture. In doing this it not only gives an overview of the social and cultural contexts in which communication and media occurs but also requires students to think critically and analytically about this relationship.


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Singapore PSB

  • Trimester 1 - 2024 (Singapore)

Newcastle City Precinct

  • Semester 1 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate their understanding of the foundational material of communication studies through written and oral presentations.

2. Explain key terms, models, concepts and a range of theories about communication.

3. Describe the conceptual connections between foundational models and theories about communication and media.

4. Demonstrate critical thinking and analytical skills expressed in written and verbal modes.

5. Express the capacity for independent research, critique and present arguments using academic modes of communication.


Content

1.     Overview of the development of communication studies.

2.     Survey and mapping of contributing disciplinary perspectives.

3.     Introduction of key concepts, terms and models.

4.     Theoretical perspectives relevant to communication studies

5.     An examination of the relationship between communication, in its many media forms, and culture and society.  


Requisite

This course replaces CMNS1110. If you have successfully completed CMNS1110 you cannot enrol in this course.


Assessment items

Written Assignment: Written Assignment

Written Assignment: Major Essay

In Term Test: Multiple Choice Test


Contact hours

Trimester 1 - 2024 (Singapore) - Singapore PSB

Lecture-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Tutorial-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1

Semester 1 - 2024 - Newcastle City Precinct

Lecture-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Tutorial-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1

Course outline