Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

While 'media' forms an ubiquitous part of modern day life, understanding media demands a unique and evolving set of skills and abilities. This unit gives students the tools to master the art of understanding media, introducing them to key theoretical approaches to the study of the media as well as the different 'public' and commercial industry contexts which comprise today's media and communication landscape. It examines key media institutions and regulatory structures, and the ways that digital transformations around platforms, data and algorithms challenge these. Students will analyse prevalent media ideas and concepts, the roles that digital intermediaries play in shaping the media environment, and explore how mediatisation impacts our connections with one another.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 1 core unit in the Media and Communication major sequence
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) analyse key theoretical approaches to the study of media and their changing applications; (2) reflect on the cultural and political aspects of media and communication technologies and platforms

; (3) examine the wider social, cultural and interpersonal contexts of media practice; and (4) demonstrate ethical awareness of the professional settings and field/s in which they will collaborate and engage.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) written work; (2) presentation; and (3) participation. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Steven Maras
Contact hours
lectures: 1 hour
workshop/practical classes: 2 hours for up to 12 weeks
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.