CRIM2010
10 units
2000 level
Course handbook
Description
Media criminology is a developing sub-discipline of criminology, as the public's interest in true crime increases in every format. This course examines representations of crime in the media, including news, investigative journalism, online discussions, film, TV, and podcasts, and their relationship to social justice. Using relevant criminological and sociological theories, it relates media representation to wider understandings of crime, deviance, and community engagement. Key areas covered include representations of class, gender and race in relation to crime, urban, suburban and rural distinctions; institutional relations between advocates, journalists and key figures in the justice system; the impact of media amplification; and the connections between youth cultures, labelling and social inclusion.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Newcastle City Precinct
- Semester 1 - 2024
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Identify different types of media influence, as applied to understanding crime and criminality.
2. Understand the relationship between crime, class, and social disadvantage.
3. Recognise the influence of 'framing' in relation to representations of crime in the media.
4. Analyse deviance and its function in constructing cultures of crime.
5. Critique practices of social control and the use of power through media outlets.
Content
The focus of this course are the many mechanisms by which the media (in all formats) frame crime, criminality, and the notion of victimisation in various contexts. The course will introduce a range of research and theoretical approaches linking representations of crime with social structures, institutions and cultures. The concept of ‘moral panic’ will be linked to the collection and publication of crime statistics and to discourses and practices of social control and the use of power. The representation of sub-cultures and deviance in the use of public space and the operation of sensationalism and moral entrepreneurship in deviance amplification will be critically analysed. Space will be employed as a key concept in the understanding of deviance, whether physical or virtual, urban or rural. The course will trace changing media perspectives, assessing who has the power to label people as criminals and victims. The impact of the citizen journalist will also be evaluated.
Assumed knowledge
40 Units at 1000 Level
Assessment items
Essay: Essay
Report: Media Report and Presentation
In Term Test: Quiz x 2
Contact hours
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 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 11 week(s) starting in week 2
Course outline
- CRIM2010 - Semester 1, 2024 (Ncle) (PDF, 262.4 KB)
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.