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    Overview

    An introduction to communication theories, media and genres.

    This paper introduces students to the concepts and debates that are vital for the study of communication today. It examines the social, personal, economic and ethical effects of communication and media systems that increasingly dominate contemporary society.

    This is a foundation paper for a BA in Communication Studies and for studies in Media, Film and Communication more generally.  

    About this paper

    Paper title Introduction to Communication Studies
    Subject Media, Film and Communication
    EFTS 0.15
    Points 18 points
    Teaching period Semester 1 (On campus)
    Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) $1,040.70
    International Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website.
    Restriction
    COMS 101
    Schedule C
    Arts and Music
    Contact
    mfco@otago.ac.nz
    Teaching staff

    Convener and Lecturer: Dr Rosemary Overell

    Paper Structure

    This paper provides an overview of three interrelated areas:

    • Theories of communication
    • Debates in communication studies
    • Types of communication
    Teaching Arrangements
    • Twice weekly lectures
    • 10 tutorials across the course of the semester
    • Optional library study-skills session
    Textbooks
    Course readings will be available on eReserve through Blackboard.
    Course outline

    View a sample course outline for MFCO 103.

    Graduate Attributes Emphasised
    Communication, Critical thinking, Information literacy.
    View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.
    Learning Outcomes

    Students who successfully complete this paper will:

    • Be able to define communication as an object of study.
    • Understand the centrality of communication in contemporary society.
    • Develop a basic knowledge of theories of communication.
    • Develop an understanding of various types of communication.
    Assessment details

    Assessment:

    • Reading Responses, 25%
    • Essay Preparation Task, 15%
    • Essay, 30%
    • Exam, 30%

    Timetable

    Semester 1

    Location
    Dunedin
    Teaching method
    This paper is taught On Campus
    Learning management system
    Blackboard

    Lecture

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend
    A1 Monday 17:00-17:50 9-16, 18-22
    Wednesday 11:00-11:50 9-16, 18-22

    Tutorial

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend one stream from
    A1 Wednesday 14:00-14:50 10-16, 18-20
    A3 Wednesday 13:00-13:50 10-16, 18-20
    A4 Friday 11:00-11:50 10-15, 18-20
    A5 Friday 10:00-10:50 10-15, 18-20
    A6 Friday 15:00-15:50 10-15, 18-20
    A7 Wednesday 16:00-16:50 10-16, 18-20
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