Course Content and Outcomes Guides (CCOG)

CCOG for J 201 archive revision 201401

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Effective Term:
Winter 2014

Course Number:
J 201
Course Title:
Mass Communication and Society
Credit Hours:
4
Lecture Hours:
40
Lecture/Lab Hours:
0
Lab Hours:
0

Course Description

Surveys media of mass communication and the effects on society. Introduces the history, development and technological advances of mass communication systems and their subsequent role in society, public discourse and the individual. Includes an analysis of print and broadcast journalism, advertising, public relations, television, film and new media. Course may be taken one time for credit as J 201 or COMM 228. Audit Available.

Intended Outcomes for the course

*Understand the unique characteristics of different media for the effect each has on culture and society.


*Recognize connections between journalistic freedoms and democracy in order to make personal and professional choices.


*Critically and thoughtfully respond to both the explicit and implicit communication of media.

Outcome Assessment Strategies

  • The forms of assessment will be determined by the individual instructor.
  • Assessment strategies may include:
  • Qualitative examinations Quantitative examinations
  • Essays Journals
  • Research papers In-class participation
  • Portfolios Projects
  • Oral presentations Group work

Course Content (Themes, Concepts, Issues and Skills)

  • Histories and growth of different media
  • Connections between types of media
  • Print media
  • Radio
  • Electronic media
  • Persuasive Professions
  • International Media
  • Connection between media and society

Competencies and Skills:
Students will:

  • Be able to analyze the functions of mass communication systems and their effect on society.
  • Be able to explain the histories and connections between different media.
  • Be able to see how the dissemination of information influences individual perceptions.
  • Be able to identify the differences and similarities in the broad range of mass media.