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Monash College Unit Guide

MEDIA STUDIES A: MEDIA CULTURE AND SOCIETY (MCD1350)

Purpose

The aim of this unit is to introduce students to the key analytical concepts, which are explored in the first year communications core unit Media Studies. This unit will introduce the key components of media studies theory, and will focus on how cinema texts and industries can be analysed as an introductory to gaining the necessary understanding of analytical concepts for media studies. Through completing prescribed readings, class discussion, oral presentations and written exercises, students will acquire a range of practical and conceptual skills which will prepare them for the first year Communication Studies sequence.

Prerequisites

Nil

Learning outcomes

On completion of this unit, students should be able to:

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact the media have on our world
  2. Demonstrate and understanding of genre, mise en scene and narrative in the historical context of the media text
  3. Demonstrate a critical understanding of introductory semiotics and content analysis
  4. Understand the concepts of power, ideology, gender, race and class. Apply them in the social context of media analysis
  5. Demonstrate an understanding of why some images and ideas are presented (and represented) in the media, while others are marginalised and ignored
  6. Demonstrate an understanding of the means of production within film, television and the media
  7. Demonstrate an ability to identify and 'read' media 'messages'

Assessment

Reading group and questions: 10%

Film Synopsis (500 words): 10%

In class film review (500 words): 10%

Oral Presentation (in pairs): 20%

Major assignment: 25%

Examination: 25%

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