JOUR 8030 - Seminar in Mass Communication Theory

Mass communication processes, structures, functions, and practices, including descriptions, explanations, and predictions of each. Review and synthesis of literature from major paradigms in the field, including administrative, critical, and cultural. Ontological, epistemological, and methodological assumptions and limitations across the field of study.

Requisites:
Credit Hours: 4
Repeat/Retake Information: May not be retaken.
Lecture/Lab Hours: 3.0 seminar
Grades: Eligible Grades: A-F,CR,PR,WP,WF,WN,FN,AU,I
Learning Outcomes:

Comprehend the interplay of structure and agency, as one sees it.
Debate the merits and limitations of various paradigmatic theoretical approaches.
Realize the constructed nature of meaning and develop critical insight.
Recognize differential surface features of phenomena that share underlying structures.
Recognize the significance of historical and material contexts in which theory-building takes place.
Understand major paradigms and their connections to one another.
Understand the nature of theory and theory-building.
Understand the significance of studying mass communication audiences, content, and institutions.