POLS333: Media and Politics (3 credits)

BAL 3068
MWF 1-1:50 pm

This class addresses the role that the news media plays in American society.  In doing so, it examines political communication as an important and essential part of society.  Included in our examintion will be theories and models of political communication, the history of the news media, freedom and control of the media, the newsmaking process, the news media and political campaigns, the relationship between the news media and political institutions, new technology, foreign and crisis coverage, and the future of the news media.  During the course of the semester, it is expected that students will improve their critical thinking and communication skills through class discussions, video programs, preparation of a research paper, and several student roundtables.

Course Requirements

1. Two exams. The exams will consist of short answer and essay questions. A blue book is required for the exam (penalty: five points deducted from the exam - - you have been warned).
2. Research Paper. See section on the "Research Paper."
3. Student Roundtables.  See section on "Student Roundtables."
4. Quiz (announced and discussed in class)
5. Participation in class discussions.

Course Goals

1.  Increase an understanding of the concepts, themes, theories, and political actors involved in the interaction between the news media and the political system.

2.  Improve critical thinking and analytical skills

3.  Improve writing skills

4.  Improve verbal communication skills

E-mail Communication

Each student is required to use his/her ODU e-mail account when communicating with the instructor.

Course Evaluations

Student course evaluations are conducted on-line.  You will receive reminders from the University encouraging you to complete evaluations of your courses during the last three weeks of the semester.  Student course evaluations are helpful to the instructors and the University so I  encourage you to complete the course evaluations for all of your classes.