Newcastle University

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The module aims to:
• familiarise students with the key theoretical frameworks and current debates in the field of media, power and politics.
• provide an understanding of the impact of digital media on politics and power.
• equip students with skills to undertake research in the field of politics of/in digital devices and platforms.
• engage students in a critical discussion of various theoretical models and their validity at both national and global level, especially in the context of the changing nature of technology and communication patterns that impact politics.
• provide an overview of interworking of media and democratic politics
• familiarise students with the processes of digital devices in political communication.

Outline Of Syllabus

Topics may include

Media and democratic politics
Media and power
Digital media and politics of identity
Digital media and discrimination
Digital media and populism
Politics of mediation technology
Digital Democracy
New media politics and critique

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

Students successfully completing the module will have
1. an advanced understanding of the relationship between digital media, power and politics;
2. familiarity with the research methods and practices used in field;
3. a thorough understanding of theoretical frameworks that conceptualise the relationship between media, power and politics;
4. sophisticated understanding of political communication in social, cultural and political contexts;
5. conceptual knowledge of power in society and how power operates through forms of political communication;
6. conceptual knowledge on issues of politics of digital media as well as politics within digital media practices.

Intended Skill Outcomes

Students successfully completing the module will be able to
1. critically appraise key academic debates about digital power and political communication.
2. apply complex theories to changing media organisations, forms, texts and audiences.
3. independently carry out various forms of research for assignments involving sustained independent enquiry.
4. evaluate and draw upon the range of sources and the conceptual frameworks appropriate to research in political communication.
5. deliver work to a given length, format, brief and deadline, properly referencing sources and ideas and making use, as appropriate, of a problem-solving approach.
6. independently gather, organise and deploy ideas and information in order to formulate arguments cogently, and express them effectively, orally and in written form.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The module examines the practices of (digital) media and power in contemporary society and introduces key theoretical and methodological approaches for the study of production, distribution and consumption of political discourses. It uses weekly lectures to provide an initial guide to impart this knowledge. The sessions provide the basis through which advanced study designed to engage with the forefront of academic study can take place. Alongside the lectures, a weekly small group seminar provides opportunity to work on tasks in groups in addition to providing a space where students can engage in critical discussions and individual presentations.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The theoretical essay will allow students to demonstrate advanced analytical and critical skills and to develop their information literacy skills while exploring the relevant body of literature and practice their writing skills. They will demonstrate a thorough understanding of the chosen theoretical framework, its importance in developing a clear and coherent argument, as well as its limitations. It allows students to develop critical and evaluative skills and stress the importance of working to deadlines and goals.

General Notes

N/A