Course overview
This course is divided into 3 sections of 2-4 weeks each. The material is a mix of practical and theoretical issues that are important for students to know. Most of the readings for this course focus on events from 2010 onward. However, the course will also offer historical and multi-media perspectives on journalism’s response to social change when discussing various theories and case studies.
We will also look at and hear from journalists, activists, and organizations to help us get real life perspectives about class content and case studies. Estimated number of weekly hours students should dedicate to this class (preparation activities + class activities + working on assignments): 8-10 hours. You are expected to complete required readings or other material in advance of class meetings and come to class prepared to discuss the readings.
- Section 1 - Theoretical Perspectives & Journalism in Practice: This section of the course aims to help students learn the foundational theories, concepts and terminologies needed for the course. During week 4, we will dive into technological advancements in new media and journalism, specifically dating to the advent of Twitter and explore how the presence of new media technology in journalism influenced the craft and its role in society. (Weeks 1-4)
- Section 2 - Case studies and Examples: We will look at case studies involving social movements that have led to social change and employ a news media perspective to explore the role of journalism in covering social movements. We will examine topics such as technology and social change, news coverage of Indigenous led movements in Canada, and reporting on gender equality movements, global democracy movements and their coverage, etc. (Weeks 6-10)
- Section 3 - Practice & Projects: We will combine the theoretical understandings from the first section and the lessons from the second section to put into practice some of the class’s main theoretical and conceptual frameworks by focusing on final projects. (Weeks 11 & 12)
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Analyze social change through a news media perspective taking account of media systems, news framing, positionality of journalists and other important aspects related to news media and reporting on social change.
- Evaluate the role journalism plays in shaping, instigating, or undermining social movements while considering social, political, and cultural implications in different political and media systems.
- Analyze the role news media play in the context of social change using specific case studies and focused analysis
- Critically assess news coverage of social movements using theoretical concepts and practical lessons discussed in class.