Media, Culture and Society

Ever thought about the profound influence that media have on our lives? Satisfy your curiosity about what the media do to us and what we do with the media. Media and communication technologies are a central force in our global society, affecting every aspect of life and culture. For students in any discipline, knowledge of current developments in the field of media and communication is key to understanding contemporary society. This minor introduces students to the scientific study of media and communication, focusing on three major areas of study. First, students will be familiarized with the major perspectives, key concepts, and developments in the study of the production, content and reception of media and their impact on culture and society. Secondly, they will focus on the interplay between new communication technologies and society, reflecting on the societal dimensions of new media and communication technologies. Thirdly, students will expore how culture may impact communication processes and they will improve their cross-cultural understanding by examining intercultural issues through real life cases using a variety of media materials.

After completing the minor, students should have a wide-ranging knowledge and critical understanding of the major themes and approaches in the literature on media processes and influences, the interplay between new communication technologies and society, and the socio-cultural dimensions of media and communication. They should be able to use their knowledge to reflect and to formulate their own viewpoints and research questions.

Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential. We advise a VWO-final examination grade of 7 or higher, a TOEFL-test minimum score of 100 or an IELTS-test minimum score of 7.
Please note that tutorials have mandatory attendance.

Teaching methods
Lectures, tutorials

Teaching material
Croteau, D. & Hoynes, W. (2019). Media/Society. Technology, Industries, Content, and Users(6th edition). London: Sage. (ISBN: 9781506390789),readings via Canvas and online resources.

Examination
Module 1: Media and Communication Theory

• Individual Assignments (20%)
• Group Presentation (15%)
• Final Exam (65%)

Module 2: Communication Technology and its Impacts

• Individual Assignments (35%)
  Exam (65%)

Module 3: Communication as a Social Force

• Mid-term exam (30%)
  Final exam (70%)