Course Description
This course is an introduction to media and entertainment studies. “Media studies” topics include not only media institutions, but also the context, history, and economics of media; meaning and ideology; effects on audience behavior; public life; and globalization. “Entertainment” focuses on any communication function used for entertainment purposes, including television, film, music, video games, sports, travel/tourism, museums, and theme parks. This course will address the history, challenges, trends, and career options in these areas.
Learning Objectives
After successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of media studies and entertainment studies as separate fields of inquiry.
- Explain how the transmission model of communication differs from the cultural model of communication
- Discuss ways in which scholars study media audiences and interpretations of media messages
- Critically analyze media globalization and cultural imperialism
- Demonstrate an understanding of entertainment industry operations, history, and challenges
- Identify potential careers in media and entertainment
Professor Karen Sichler 