CMNS2600

Audience Studies

10 Units 2000 Level Course

Available in 2014

Callaghan Campus Semester 1
UoN Singapore Trimester 1

Previously offered in 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004

Considers the way audiences are researched and positioned by media organisations and texts. Students study competing theories regarding the different ways audiences relate to media products and texts to meet individual needs, and the needs of producers and the media industries. Students will also explore specific instances of text/reader relationships as they apply to film, radio, popular music, print media and television and the Internet.

Objectives The course will:

1. Explain the role of the audience in the communication process.

2. Outline differing theoretical approaches to the study of audiences and explain certain
types of analytic frameworks available for the critical investigation of audiences and audience/text relationships.

3. Explain the differences between quantitative and qualitative audience measurements.

4. Describe various relationships that can occur between text/s and audiences.
Content 1. Audience Studies outlines differing theoretical approaches to the concept of what audience means in a range of social, cultural and mediated contexts.

2. Analytic frameworks in which the notion of audience has been traditionally considered including quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.

3. Current trends in audience research using contemporary media products and environments.

4. Relationships between theoretical assumptions, production processes and cultural texts.

Specific topics include: mass and niche audiences, measuring audiences, media effects, soap operas, romance and audience, special interest audiences, audiences for the internet and multimedia.
Transition N/A
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge CMNS1110 or an equivalent understanding of media theory and production.
Modes of Delivery Internal Mode
Teaching Methods Lecture
Seminar
Tutorial
Assessment Items
Essays / Written Assignments
Group/tutorial participation and contribution
Presentations - Tutorial
Contact Hours Lecture: for 1 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Tutorial: for 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Timetables 2014 Course Timetables for CMNS2600