MCH3077 : Digital Power, Politics and Communication
- Offered for Year: 2020/21
- Module Leader(s): Dr James Ash
- Owning School: Arts & Cultures
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
| Semester 2 Credit Value: | 20 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
Aims
The module aims to:
• familiarise students with the key theoretical frameworks and current debates in the field of digital 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 digital media and power, to be able to analyse the politics of 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 a thorough understanding of the ethical dimensions of digital politics;
• familiarise students with the processes of digital devices in political communication;
Outline Of Syllabus
Digital media and power
Digital media and platforms
Digital media and politics of identity
Digital media and discrimination
Digital media and populism
Digital Democracy
New media politics and critique
Teaching Methods
Please note that module leaders are reviewing the module teaching and assessment methods for Semester 2 modules, in light of the Covid-19 restrictions. There may also be a few further changes to Semester 1 modules. Final information will be available by the end of August 2020 in for Semester 1 modules and the end of October 2020 for Semester 2 modules.
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 50:00 | 50:00 | Independent study and development of Essay 1 |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 30:00 | 30:00 | Independent study and development of Case Study 1 |
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 9 | 3:00 | 27:00 | Online synchronous - drop in format geared towards support with assessments |
| Guided Independent Study | Directed research and reading | 1 | 72:00 | 72:00 | Short tasks designed to bolster knowledge of lecture materials and build towards assessments |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 9 | 1:00 | 9:00 | PiP. Seminar format - discussion of pre-circulated tasks and applied activities |
| Structured Guided Learning | Structured non-synchronous discussion | 1 | 3:00 | 3:00 | Online, non-synchronous. Activities in support of assessments |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Scheduled on-line contact time | 9 | 1:00 | 9:00 | Online synchronous - drop in format geared towards support with assessments |
| Total | 200:00 |
Jointly Taught With
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| MCH8177 | Digital Power, Politics and Communication |
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 the formal lectures to provide an initial guide to impart this knowledge via interactive sessions. The sessions provide the basis through which advanced study designed to engage with the forefront of academic study can take place. Alongside the lectures, seminars provide a space where students can engage in critical discussions of the theoretical frameworks presented during the lectures as well as a relevant range of case studies and examples. A number of optional tutorials with the students will take place that will provide extra support as and where necessary. These tutorials will invite students to reflect on their own learning practices, leading them to consider the areas they need further support and guidance.
Assessment Methods
Please note that module leaders are reviewing the module teaching and assessment methods for Semester 2 modules, in light of the Covid-19 restrictions. There may also be a few further changes to Semester 1 modules. Final information will be available by the end of August 2020 in for Semester 1 modules and the end of October 2020 for Semester 2 modules.
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Case study | 2 | M | 40 | 1500 words case study |
| Essay | 2 | A | 60 | Essay, 2500 words |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The theoretical essay will allow students to make proof of advanced analytical and critical skills, 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.
The assessed case study will test students’ research skills, problem solving abilities, adaptability and initiative, as well as the student’s critical use of relevant research and theoretical perspectives based on the collection and submission of empirical material.
Both assessments allow students to develop critical and evaluative skills and stress the importance of working to deadlines and goals.
Reading Lists
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- MCH3077's Timetable