INTRODUCTION
This course will introduce you to the various theories of mass communication and gives you appreciable understanding of the conceptual perspectives, relevance and approaches for the application of the mass communication theories.
Every attempt is made to introduce and review relevant theories of mass communication studies. The course content is arranged in the best possible way to ensure balance and to guide the students to both the main and sub topics of different theories of mass communication.
Because this is a course about communication, you will be expected to network yourselves into groups (taking advantage of advancement in social media), spend a lot of your time among your group members either face-to-face or through convenient social media network talking to one another and working with one another to explain and understand application of each theory.
This Course Guide familiarizes you with basic information about this course; including the course structure and objectives; assessment/examinations structure and schedule for assignment and other activities.
COURSE LEARNING OUTCOME
The course aims at broadening the students’ knowledge of fundamental theories of mass communication; conceptualization, functions, effects and contributions to media and social development. By the end of this course, you will:
· Explain the basic mass communication theories that guide our understanding of the effects and roles of mass media.
· Be able to analyze media messages from many perspectives, all through the use of mass communication theories.
· Demonstrate a much deeper understanding of the personal and cultural role of the mass media industries.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
The course is intended:
- To introduce you to a broad range of theories of mass communication so that you can develop a personal understanding of conceptualization and functionality.
- To increase your analytical ability and broaden your understanding of intended and eventual effects of mass communication messages.
- To increase your understanding of mass media communication, the operational environment, and audience.