Sunday, November 30, 2008
Final exam study guide
Remember that it's just through chapters 15-18.
It will be Thursday, Dec. 11 at 9 a.m. (we don't have class that Tuesday). Here are some topic (but it's not limited to this list):
Chapter 15
First Amendment
Prior Restraint
Near vs. Minnesota case
Pentagon Papers
Shield laws
Privacy Protection Act of 1980
Freedom of Information Act
Libel, Slander, actual malice, NY Times v. Sullivan
Copyright and fair use
Food Lion case
Equal Opportunities Rule
The FCC and Cable/Network TV
Telecommunications Act of 1996
Deceptive Advertising and the FTC
Chapter 16
How journalists make their decisions: Ethical Principles (know basic differences)
Acculturation
Ombudsperson
Voluntary performance codes for print/broadcast/film
Hayes Code/MPPA ratings (when? why?)
Chapter 17
Governmental systems and media control (libertarian, social responsibility, etc.)
Theories of media-government relationships and examples
Free Marketplace of Ideas
Global Village - what is it, examples, who said it?
"The World is Flat" -- Thomas Friedman
One laptop per child - goals
Digital divide - .. 4 main areas (economic equality, social mobility, democracy, economic growth)
Chapter 18
Magic bullet theory
Minimalist effects theory (with two-step flow)
Media Research - survey's, experiments, panel studies - pro's and con's of each
Socialization
Narcotizing theory
Spiral of Silence
Third person effect
Cultivation/Gerbner
Stereotypes (with cultivation theory)
Impact of TV on politics
Bandura and Bobo doll research
Different approaches to violence in the mass media
Catharsis/Stimulation
Social effects of the Internet
Agenda setting
Mainstreaming, resonance
Children and Advertising
4 possible essays (again, I'll pick two for the test):
1. You think that The Des Moines Register has written defamatory statements about you! What do you have to show to win, and what can the paper do to defend itself?
2. Please describe how a media researcher would describe violence in the media and its effect on viewers according to these theories: socialization theory, catharsis theory, stimulation theory, and agenda setting theory.
3. Ownership of the press can be public (the government) or private (corporations). Control can be centralized (government controlled) or decentralized (little or no government control). This gives us four different possible combinations. As we've talked about, the United States, the U.K., China, and Mexico each have a different combination of these two variables. Which combination would be best for modern-day Iraq and why?
4. You're a photojournalist. You arrive at a fire at a school and take many photos. One of them is of a child laying on the ground who you find out has later died of smoke inhalation. The child's face is turned away, and the only people who could recognize him are the parents and maybe some classmates and teachers. The photo could possible raise awareness and help future schools to be more aware of fire safety. Should you run the photo? Run through five of the ethical principles in our book and what each would say about this situation.
It will be Thursday, Dec. 11 at 9 a.m. (we don't have class that Tuesday). Here are some topic (but it's not limited to this list):
Chapter 15
First Amendment
Prior Restraint
Near vs. Minnesota case
Pentagon Papers
Shield laws
Privacy Protection Act of 1980
Freedom of Information Act
Libel, Slander, actual malice, NY Times v. Sullivan
Copyright and fair use
Food Lion case
Equal Opportunities Rule
The FCC and Cable/Network TV
Telecommunications Act of 1996
Deceptive Advertising and the FTC
Chapter 16
How journalists make their decisions: Ethical Principles (know basic differences)
Acculturation
Ombudsperson
Voluntary performance codes for print/broadcast/film
Hayes Code/MPPA ratings (when? why?)
Chapter 17
Governmental systems and media control (libertarian, social responsibility, etc.)
Theories of media-government relationships and examples
Free Marketplace of Ideas
Global Village - what is it, examples, who said it?
"The World is Flat" -- Thomas Friedman
One laptop per child - goals
Digital divide - .. 4 main areas (economic equality, social mobility, democracy, economic growth)
Chapter 18
Magic bullet theory
Minimalist effects theory (with two-step flow)
Media Research - survey's, experiments, panel studies - pro's and con's of each
Socialization
Narcotizing theory
Spiral of Silence
Third person effect
Cultivation/Gerbner
Stereotypes (with cultivation theory)
Impact of TV on politics
Bandura and Bobo doll research
Different approaches to violence in the mass media
Catharsis/Stimulation
Social effects of the Internet
Agenda setting
Mainstreaming, resonance
Children and Advertising
4 possible essays (again, I'll pick two for the test):
1. You think that The Des Moines Register has written defamatory statements about you! What do you have to show to win, and what can the paper do to defend itself?
2. Please describe how a media researcher would describe violence in the media and its effect on viewers according to these theories: socialization theory, catharsis theory, stimulation theory, and agenda setting theory.
3. Ownership of the press can be public (the government) or private (corporations). Control can be centralized (government controlled) or decentralized (little or no government control). This gives us four different possible combinations. As we've talked about, the United States, the U.K., China, and Mexico each have a different combination of these two variables. Which combination would be best for modern-day Iraq and why?
4. You're a photojournalist. You arrive at a fire at a school and take many photos. One of them is of a child laying on the ground who you find out has later died of smoke inhalation. The child's face is turned away, and the only people who could recognize him are the parents and maybe some classmates and teachers. The photo could possible raise awareness and help future schools to be more aware of fire safety. Should you run the photo? Run through five of the ethical principles in our book and what each would say about this situation.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Reaction Paper #13
Just a note: the extra credit I sent out last week isn't due until the last day of class, so it's not too late to do it if you haven't yet.
Here is Reaction Paper 13. Since next week is a little unusual I'll make it due on Saturday the 29th instead of the usual Thursday.
For paper 13 I'd like you to do a media summary of any country of your choosing (except the U.S.). What are the major newspapers? What is the literacy rate? What is their TV like? Is there a TV license or tax? Who owns the stations, the state or private companies or both? What are the shows like? What percent of the population has Internet access? Are there any controversies having to do with the media? These are just a few questions you can answer. Be inquisitive and come up with more of your own. Remember, you can use Wikipedia as a starting point but try to use the sources they reference.
Here is Reaction Paper 13. Since next week is a little unusual I'll make it due on Saturday the 29th instead of the usual Thursday.
For paper 13 I'd like you to do a media summary of any country of your choosing (except the U.S.). What are the major newspapers? What is the literacy rate? What is their TV like? Is there a TV license or tax? Who owns the stations, the state or private companies or both? What are the shows like? What percent of the population has Internet access? Are there any controversies having to do with the media? These are just a few questions you can answer. Be inquisitive and come up with more of your own. Remember, you can use Wikipedia as a starting point but try to use the sources they reference.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Friday, November 14, 2008
Reaction Paper #12 due 11-20
Here's the next reaction paper and the last extra credit. First, the paper:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/123484
http://www.usatoday.com/news/opinion/editorials/2005-11-29-wikipedia-edit_x.htm
http://w2.eff.org/bloggers/lg/faq-defamation.php
The Newsweek article talks about the "Look at Me" generation -- those who seem to be very open about being on camera and documenting their lives.
The USA Today story is about a member of an older generation who was lied about in a Wikipedia article.
The third is a FAQ about defamation.
Is the "Look at me" generation unique? What are your thoughts on this trend? Is it healthy?
What are some downsides to documenting your life online? What should kids learn about sharing information online and what should be done if a peer writes something false about them? What are your thoughts on defamation online and is there anything you can do?
The Extra Credit (up to 10 points). Read this article:
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2008/03/31/080331fa_fact_alterman?currentPage=all
1. Summarize.
2. What seems to be the relationship between print and the web?
3. Is there anything newspapers can do to survive?
http://www.newsweek.com/id/123484
http://www.usatoday.com/news/opinion/editorials/2005-11-29-wikipedia-edit_x.htm
http://w2.eff.org/bloggers/lg/faq-defamation.php
The Newsweek article talks about the "Look at Me" generation -- those who seem to be very open about being on camera and documenting their lives.
The USA Today story is about a member of an older generation who was lied about in a Wikipedia article.
The third is a FAQ about defamation.
Is the "Look at me" generation unique? What are your thoughts on this trend? Is it healthy?
What are some downsides to documenting your life online? What should kids learn about sharing information online and what should be done if a peer writes something false about them? What are your thoughts on defamation online and is there anything you can do?
The Extra Credit (up to 10 points). Read this article:
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2008/03/31/080331fa_fact_alterman?currentPage=all
1. Summarize.
2. What seems to be the relationship between print and the web?
3. Is there anything newspapers can do to survive?
Monday, November 10, 2008
Presentations
As listed on the syllabus, December 2 and 4 (last week of class) we have presentations. Here is the info!
Your assignment will be to give a short presentation on a topic of your choice. You may do this by yourself or in a group of two.
You can use your research paper topic if you want.
Here is the presentation length for each option:
By yourself: 10 minutes long
2-person group: 15 minutes long
For example, if you are in a 2-person group and you chose MTV, one person could talk about the history of MTV and the other person could talk about social or economic influences of MTV.
This project is worth 50 points.
The only thing I'd like you to turn in is an outline of your research. Please type them up. It doesn't have to be written up like a regular paper. Please include a list of the sources you used.
Here are some topic ideas (you aren't limited to these):
Is advertising good for society?
Should copyrights be extended to infinity?
Are American values shaped by the mass media?
Should freedom of speech ever be restricted?
Is fake news journalism?
Any topic of government regulation, law, guidelines, ethical issues, etc covered in chapters 15-17 (for example, NY Times v Sullivan, Telecommunications Act of 1996, Shield Laws, FCC regulation, Zurcher v Stanford Daily...)
Advertising & Kids -- what are the rules? what do studies say?
Subliminal Advertising
Analyze a famous PR case (Ford Tires, finger found in Wendy's chili)
Censorship of the Internet in China
The effect of YouTube on regular TV
Satellite Radio - here to stay or not?
Reality TV - how much of it is real?
Triumph of the Will (or other propaganda) - does it work?
War on TV (Vietnam to now with embedded journalists)
The impact of the OJ Simpson Trial on how news is covered
MPAA movie ratings or video game ratings - what is right/wrong?
An analysis of a news or blog website - pro's and con's of the site
Compare and contrast different station's newscasts on the same night - which stories did they lead off with? Did any stations have stories that the other one didn't?
Negative political advertising: Does it really work?
Video games and violence: what does the research say?
History of the Internet/history of a specific website
Photojournalism ethics/photoshopping
Fabrication/plagiarism by journalists (Jayson Blair, Stephen Glass)
Journalists going to jail for their sources
An inventor/notable figure: Benjamin Franklin, Philo Farnsworth, David Sarnoff, Mark Zuckerberg, etc.
How has the media changed since 9/11?
Media credibility
You may use Powerpoint, play audio or video clips, make your own audio or video clips, overheads, or just stand up at the front and talk. The key is:
Teach us something!!!!
(If you use Powerpoint you can put it on a USB flash drive or CD.. or you could try emailing it to me. I'll let you know if it works.).
Your assignment will be to give a short presentation on a topic of your choice. You may do this by yourself or in a group of two.
You can use your research paper topic if you want.
Here is the presentation length for each option:
By yourself: 10 minutes long
2-person group: 15 minutes long
For example, if you are in a 2-person group and you chose MTV, one person could talk about the history of MTV and the other person could talk about social or economic influences of MTV.
This project is worth 50 points.
The only thing I'd like you to turn in is an outline of your research. Please type them up. It doesn't have to be written up like a regular paper. Please include a list of the sources you used.
Here are some topic ideas (you aren't limited to these):
Is advertising good for society?
Should copyrights be extended to infinity?
Are American values shaped by the mass media?
Should freedom of speech ever be restricted?
Is fake news journalism?
Any topic of government regulation, law, guidelines, ethical issues, etc covered in chapters 15-17 (for example, NY Times v Sullivan, Telecommunications Act of 1996, Shield Laws, FCC regulation, Zurcher v Stanford Daily...)
Advertising & Kids -- what are the rules? what do studies say?
Subliminal Advertising
Analyze a famous PR case (Ford Tires, finger found in Wendy's chili)
Censorship of the Internet in China
The effect of YouTube on regular TV
Satellite Radio - here to stay or not?
Reality TV - how much of it is real?
Triumph of the Will (or other propaganda) - does it work?
War on TV (Vietnam to now with embedded journalists)
The impact of the OJ Simpson Trial on how news is covered
MPAA movie ratings or video game ratings - what is right/wrong?
An analysis of a news or blog website - pro's and con's of the site
Compare and contrast different station's newscasts on the same night - which stories did they lead off with? Did any stations have stories that the other one didn't?
Negative political advertising: Does it really work?
Video games and violence: what does the research say?
History of the Internet/history of a specific website
Photojournalism ethics/photoshopping
Fabrication/plagiarism by journalists (Jayson Blair, Stephen Glass)
Journalists going to jail for their sources
An inventor/notable figure: Benjamin Franklin, Philo Farnsworth, David Sarnoff, Mark Zuckerberg, etc.
How has the media changed since 9/11?
Media credibility
You may use Powerpoint, play audio or video clips, make your own audio or video clips, overheads, or just stand up at the front and talk. The key is:
Teach us something!!!!
(If you use Powerpoint you can put it on a USB flash drive or CD.. or you could try emailing it to me. I'll let you know if it works.).
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Reaction paper 11
The last two days of class we have a "special project." Just a heads up here. You can either present (not read, but present.. summarize, talk about, use a powerpoint if you want) your research paper (which is due Nov. 20) or you can present a mixed-media creation (video, image or images, power point, etc) that is inspired by something we've talked about (or anything in the mass media, really). For example, a student last year put together a collage of magazine images that had to do with body image. Be prepared to talk about 10 minutes. You can do it with a partner, but if it's two people it should be 15 minutes. And be prepared to take questions. The main thing here is to teach US something!!
Here is your next reaction paper, due 11-13. It will be a way to catch up if you are missing papers.
---
A nuclear power plant located in Colorado Springs, CO. provides power to a 400-mile radius.
The plant is notable for being tied to the Defense Department's local network of "in-case-of-disaster" installations (the North American Aerospace Defense Command is located in Colorado Springs).
A journalist receives a tip from a source whose name they know but wishes to remain anonymous in print (or they won't give the journalist information). The tip concerns the lack of security at the plant, including sleeping guards and visibly broken security cameras.
The plant offers a tour to the public once a month. Of course, no cameras are allowed. The journalist goes undercover, posing as a regular citizen, and takes the tour. Once inside the journalist uses a special hidden camera to take still photographs.
The tipster was right. The journalist discovers many faults in the security at the plant.
The newspaper decides to go with it as a multi-part story, spanning five days. Different pictures and detailed notes from inside will be published.
After the first edition is released, the government immediately springs to action. Hit by surprise, the Defense Department launches an injunction against the paper, trying to stop further pictures and details from being published whatsoever and also to reveal the identity of the anonymous source. They also want to charge the journalist.
The court will hear the opening arguments to decide if the paper has a right to publish this information and whether the journalist must reveal their source.
Take one side or the other. The side of the newspaper, arguing for the right to print it (and no trespassing), or the side of the Defense Department, arguing that it should not be allowed to go to print (and the journalist should be charged with trespassing).
Your best bet to win is to cite prior court cases that show that you are right. You can use court cases from your book (Chapter 15, maybe some from 16). You can use other sources but if you do be sure to cite them.
*** Since this one is a little more work, it will count as two papers (it should be 2-3 pages double spaced).
Here is your next reaction paper, due 11-13. It will be a way to catch up if you are missing papers.
---
A nuclear power plant located in Colorado Springs, CO. provides power to a 400-mile radius.
The plant is notable for being tied to the Defense Department's local network of "in-case-of-disaster" installations (the North American Aerospace Defense Command is located in Colorado Springs).
A journalist receives a tip from a source whose name they know but wishes to remain anonymous in print (or they won't give the journalist information). The tip concerns the lack of security at the plant, including sleeping guards and visibly broken security cameras.
The plant offers a tour to the public once a month. Of course, no cameras are allowed. The journalist goes undercover, posing as a regular citizen, and takes the tour. Once inside the journalist uses a special hidden camera to take still photographs.
The tipster was right. The journalist discovers many faults in the security at the plant.
The newspaper decides to go with it as a multi-part story, spanning five days. Different pictures and detailed notes from inside will be published.
After the first edition is released, the government immediately springs to action. Hit by surprise, the Defense Department launches an injunction against the paper, trying to stop further pictures and details from being published whatsoever and also to reveal the identity of the anonymous source. They also want to charge the journalist.
The court will hear the opening arguments to decide if the paper has a right to publish this information and whether the journalist must reveal their source.
Take one side or the other. The side of the newspaper, arguing for the right to print it (and no trespassing), or the side of the Defense Department, arguing that it should not be allowed to go to print (and the journalist should be charged with trespassing).
Your best bet to win is to cite prior court cases that show that you are right. You can use court cases from your book (Chapter 15, maybe some from 16). You can use other sources but if you do be sure to cite them.
*** Since this one is a little more work, it will count as two papers (it should be 2-3 pages double spaced).
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Reaction Paper #10
Sorry this one is a little late. If you need more time, let me know, otherwise it'll be due Thursday as usual.
For reaction paper 10, I'd like you to write a review. It can be a review for a TV show, movie, album, video game or book.
Pretend you are writing for The Campus Chronicle. Your audience is DMACC students. You want to keep your writing somewhat formal, but it doesn't have to be too stiff. Be sure to proof read. Here are some good tips on how to write it (following these will definitely make your paper better!)
http://www.howtodothings.com/hobbies/a2206-how-to-write-a-movie-review.html
It will help if you review something that you are passionate about -- whether you love it or hate it.
Here are some readings for inspiration.
Roger Ebert hates the movie "North": http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/19940722/REVIEWS/407220302/1023
But he likes Pulp Fiction: http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20010610%2FREVIEWS08%2F106100301%2F1023
Indiana Jones: http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20000430%2FREVIEWS08%2F4300301%2F1023
This guy goes in-depth with "Armageddon": http://criterioncollection.blogspot.com/2005/09/40-armageddon.html
Mario Kart Wii Review: http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=185351
Inform me and let your opinion be known!
For reaction paper 10, I'd like you to write a review. It can be a review for a TV show, movie, album, video game or book.
Pretend you are writing for The Campus Chronicle. Your audience is DMACC students. You want to keep your writing somewhat formal, but it doesn't have to be too stiff. Be sure to proof read. Here are some good tips on how to write it (following these will definitely make your paper better!)
http://www.howtodothings.com/hobbies/a2206-how-to-write-a-movie-review.html
It will help if you review something that you are passionate about -- whether you love it or hate it.
Here are some readings for inspiration.
Roger Ebert hates the movie "North": http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/19940722/REVIEWS/407220302/1023
But he likes Pulp Fiction: http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20010610%2FREVIEWS08%2F106100301%2F1023
Indiana Jones: http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20000430%2FREVIEWS08%2F4300301%2F1023
This guy goes in-depth with "Armageddon": http://criterioncollection.blogspot.com/2005/09/40-armageddon.html
Mario Kart Wii Review: http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=185351
Inform me and let your opinion be known!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Reactoin Paper 9
Reaction paper 9, due 10-30:
Instead of reading some articles, I'd like you you to take a step back and analyze the media consumption of you and your peers.
No matter your age, I'd like you to pretend to be a cultural anthropologist. Heck, an alien cultural anthropologist -- someone with no background information or Earthly bias.
I want you to write a report about the media consumption of your generation and how it defines your generation. This is key: How it defines your generation.
Pretend your audience has no familiarity with mass media in the U.S.
Simply saying, "Eighteen year-olds tend to listen to music on the radio" is not specific enough. What kind of music? Where do they listen to it? What kind of music? What bands are popular?
How has the media influenced your specific culture and behaviors (clothes you wear? food you eat? how you spend your time? How you communicate?)
Be sure to identify the age range you are describing.
You can use anecdotal evidence of what media you and your friends/peers use (as opposed to studies).
Be sure to look at: TV and/or movies, music and/or radio, books and/or magazines, the Internet and/or video games.
Main focus: What is popular among your peer group, why, and what influence has it had on your day-to-day life? How has it made who you are (if at all?)
It will be difficult to fit this into 400-500 words, so expect to go longer.
Don't just sit down and write this in half an hour. Let it rattle around in your brain for a few days.
Instead of reading some articles, I'd like you you to take a step back and analyze the media consumption of you and your peers.
No matter your age, I'd like you to pretend to be a cultural anthropologist. Heck, an alien cultural anthropologist -- someone with no background information or Earthly bias.
I want you to write a report about the media consumption of your generation and how it defines your generation. This is key: How it defines your generation.
Pretend your audience has no familiarity with mass media in the U.S.
Simply saying, "Eighteen year-olds tend to listen to music on the radio" is not specific enough. What kind of music? Where do they listen to it? What kind of music? What bands are popular?
How has the media influenced your specific culture and behaviors (clothes you wear? food you eat? how you spend your time? How you communicate?)
Be sure to identify the age range you are describing.
You can use anecdotal evidence of what media you and your friends/peers use (as opposed to studies).
Be sure to look at: TV and/or movies, music and/or radio, books and/or magazines, the Internet and/or video games.
Main focus: What is popular among your peer group, why, and what influence has it had on your day-to-day life? How has it made who you are (if at all?)
It will be difficult to fit this into 400-500 words, so expect to go longer.
Don't just sit down and write this in half an hour. Let it rattle around in your brain for a few days.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Study Guide Exam 3
Newspapers - ownership, 3 sources of revenue, defining features, Penny Press, Yellow Journalism, the 3 departments, feedback, Hearst, Pulitzer, Ben Franklin's impact, who is John Peter Zenger, impact of the telegraph.
Magazines - feedback, magazines between WWI and WWII, horizontal and vertical magazines, types of circulation, problems magazines are facing, muckracking.
Books - printing press, publishers, distribution, Guttenberg (who was he, where and when?), paperback boom, pixels versus print, early 20th century and publishing commercialization, feedback, eBooks, printing on demand
Radio - payola, AM and FM, radio in the 1920's and 1930's and after, competition to radio and its effects, Radio Act of 1927, Communications act of 1934, voice tracking, consolidation, top five radio group owners, "drive time," feedback
Sound recordings - positive and negative impact on the revenue of sound recordings through the years, DMCA (Digital Millennium Copyright Act), rock and roll, why revenue has dropped, feedback, DRM
Television - names of the two men involved with the invention, revenue of cable vs. broadcast, the effect TV had on other media, how TV makes money, Nielsen ratings, TV news staff vs. newspaper
Film - the Hays code (what it was, when it ended, what replaced it?), the MPAA, the Edison lab, the Black Maria, William K. Dickson, sound on film, the star system, audience then vs. audiences now, impact of television, when vertical control was stopped and why, budgets of modern feature films, digital distribution, U.S. box office revenue, nickelodeons
Internet - WWW inventor Tim Berners-Lee, social, cultural, and academic implications of the Internet, how did the Internet start out? what was it called when it first started? economics of the Internet. what different parts make up the Internet? e-commerce. Web 2.0. Analog vs digital. Demographics of who is on the Internet. ENIAC and ABC computers. What is ICANN? Five things needed (computerization, digitization, miniaturization, telecommunications, data compression). Social networking. Privacy aspects.
Video Games - based on lecture - history, studies, demographics... the Odyssey, Spacewar!, impact of Atari, failure of E.T., NES, Pong.. video games and violence: is it cause and effect? What do the studies say? Video game crash of 1983.
4 possible essay questions:
1. Describe the significance of the Penny Press and the characteristics of newspapers before and after the development of the Penny Press, including distribution, content, and news collection.
2. Describe the evolution (and reasons behind) radio going from network-oriented programming to local programming. Describe characteristics of radio before and after the shift from network to local.
3. Please compare the impact of TV on film in the 1950s to 1970s to YouTube and the Internet's impact on TV now. What are the similarities and differences of this comparison?
4. What hurdles to record companies, book publishers, and film studios now face because of the Internet and what can they do to still make a profit and stay competitive?
Magazines - feedback, magazines between WWI and WWII, horizontal and vertical magazines, types of circulation, problems magazines are facing, muckracking.
Books - printing press, publishers, distribution, Guttenberg (who was he, where and when?), paperback boom, pixels versus print, early 20th century and publishing commercialization, feedback, eBooks, printing on demand
Radio - payola, AM and FM, radio in the 1920's and 1930's and after, competition to radio and its effects, Radio Act of 1927, Communications act of 1934, voice tracking, consolidation, top five radio group owners, "drive time," feedback
Sound recordings - positive and negative impact on the revenue of sound recordings through the years, DMCA (Digital Millennium Copyright Act), rock and roll, why revenue has dropped, feedback, DRM
Television - names of the two men involved with the invention, revenue of cable vs. broadcast, the effect TV had on other media, how TV makes money, Nielsen ratings, TV news staff vs. newspaper
Film - the Hays code (what it was, when it ended, what replaced it?), the MPAA, the Edison lab, the Black Maria, William K. Dickson, sound on film, the star system, audience then vs. audiences now, impact of television, when vertical control was stopped and why, budgets of modern feature films, digital distribution, U.S. box office revenue, nickelodeons
Internet - WWW inventor Tim Berners-Lee, social, cultural, and academic implications of the Internet, how did the Internet start out? what was it called when it first started? economics of the Internet. what different parts make up the Internet? e-commerce. Web 2.0. Analog vs digital. Demographics of who is on the Internet. ENIAC and ABC computers. What is ICANN? Five things needed (computerization, digitization, miniaturization, telecommunications, data compression). Social networking. Privacy aspects.
Video Games - based on lecture - history, studies, demographics... the Odyssey, Spacewar!, impact of Atari, failure of E.T., NES, Pong.. video games and violence: is it cause and effect? What do the studies say? Video game crash of 1983.
4 possible essay questions:
1. Describe the significance of the Penny Press and the characteristics of newspapers before and after the development of the Penny Press, including distribution, content, and news collection.
2. Describe the evolution (and reasons behind) radio going from network-oriented programming to local programming. Describe characteristics of radio before and after the shift from network to local.
3. Please compare the impact of TV on film in the 1950s to 1970s to YouTube and the Internet's impact on TV now. What are the similarities and differences of this comparison?
4. What hurdles to record companies, book publishers, and film studios now face because of the Internet and what can they do to still make a profit and stay competitive?
Monday, October 27, 2008
Broadband abroad
Even though this was written in 2003, it has some good points. We haven't come very far in five years when it comes to broadband!
Friday, October 24, 2008
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Friday, October 17, 2008
Reaction Paper #8 due 10-23
Here it is!
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/6337781.stm
http://www.apple.com/hotnews/thoughtsonmusic/
http://www.boingboing.net/2007/08/09/universal-goes-drmfr.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/6516189.stm
http://www.schneier.com/blog/archives/2005/11/sonys_drm_rootk.html
and the first letter/response in this link:
http://journal.neilgaiman.com/2008/03/more-on-free-and-suchlike.html
1. These links are pretty much all anti-DRM (It was a bit hard finding an article that supported it!). What is your reaction to them? Do you think DRM is a necessary evil? (or is it wrong at all?) Can you defend the notion of DRM?
2. What do you think about Neil Gaiman's notion of giving away books in hopes of selling them? Do you think it is realistic?
3. Has the traditional model of selling music, movies, and books been destroyed by the Internet? Who will be affected more, the major recording artists or the garage band that depends on sales to even pay rent?
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/6337781.stm
http://www.apple.com/hotnews/thoughtsonmusic/
http://www.boingboing.net/2007/08/09/universal-goes-drmfr.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/6516189.stm
http://www.schneier.com/blog/archives/2005/11/sonys_drm_rootk.html
and the first letter/response in this link:
http://journal.neilgaiman.com/2008/03/more-on-free-and-suchlike.html
1. These links are pretty much all anti-DRM (It was a bit hard finding an article that supported it!). What is your reaction to them? Do you think DRM is a necessary evil? (or is it wrong at all?) Can you defend the notion of DRM?
2. What do you think about Neil Gaiman's notion of giving away books in hopes of selling them? Do you think it is realistic?
3. Has the traditional model of selling music, movies, and books been destroyed by the Internet? Who will be affected more, the major recording artists or the garage band that depends on sales to even pay rent?
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Citizen Kane E.C.
Ok, I think I forgot to email this one so here it is.
First, watch the movie Citizen Kane....
Then, write up why the movie is considered one of the best films ever made according to the experts (and if you agree).
Be sure to back your points up with examples from the movie. Don't just say, "it is considered the best because of the cinematography." Give me examples from the film that show why the cinematography was so great.
You might want to watch it with the commentary by Roger Ebert (but be sure to cite it if you reference it).
Citing sources ( "According Cinematography Today magazine, etc etc," ) will be important. You can cite a website but it must be credible. Books, magazine, film history texts, printed sources will be best. You can earn up to 10 points. (20 percentage points on a test!)
I'd say 3 pages or 800-1100 words is a good length. It just depends how thorough you are. The more detail and information you give me, the more points you'll be looking at (and naturally, the longer it will be).
The movie is at the library, too. If you want to borrow it from me for a couple days that is an option, too.
If you have any questions, let me know!
Due the last class before Thanksgiving break (Nov. 25).
Andy
First, watch the movie Citizen Kane....
Then, write up why the movie is considered one of the best films ever made according to the experts (and if you agree).
Be sure to back your points up with examples from the movie. Don't just say, "it is considered the best because of the cinematography." Give me examples from the film that show why the cinematography was so great.
You might want to watch it with the commentary by Roger Ebert (but be sure to cite it if you reference it).
Citing sources ( "According Cinematography Today magazine, etc etc," ) will be important. You can cite a website but it must be credible. Books, magazine, film history texts, printed sources will be best. You can earn up to 10 points. (20 percentage points on a test!)
I'd say 3 pages or 800-1100 words is a good length. It just depends how thorough you are. The more detail and information you give me, the more points you'll be looking at (and naturally, the longer it will be).
The movie is at the library, too. If you want to borrow it from me for a couple days that is an option, too.
If you have any questions, let me know!
Due the last class before Thanksgiving break (Nov. 25).
Andy
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
Reaction Paper #7 due 10-16
Here they are.. if you like music, hopefully you will find this one interesting:
http://freakonomics.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/09/20/whats-the-future-of-the-music-industry-a-freakonomics-quorum/
http://www.riaa.com/faq.php
http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20060424-6662.html
http://blog.wired.com/27bstroke6/2007/10/riaa-jury-finds.html
http://www.news.com/2100-1027_3-5181562.html
Please answer all:
1. What are the current attitudes of sharing music among your peers? Is there any taboo to it at all? Is there a feeling that you shouldn't do it? Do you or some of your friends have a stance to not do it?
2. What do you think of the alternate explanations for the decline of revenue of the music industry? Do you think they are just excuses to continue sharing music or are they legitimate?
3. What is your reaction to the RIAA's reasons to stop piracy? Do you think suing music sharers is a good strategy? Will music piracy ever slow down?
http://freakonomics.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/09/20/whats-the-future-of-the-music-industry-a-freakonomics-quorum/
http://www.riaa.com/faq.php
http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20060424-6662.html
http://blog.wired.com/27bstroke6/2007/10/riaa-jury-finds.html
http://www.news.com/2100-1027_3-5181562.html
Please answer all:
1. What are the current attitudes of sharing music among your peers? Is there any taboo to it at all? Is there a feeling that you shouldn't do it? Do you or some of your friends have a stance to not do it?
2. What do you think of the alternate explanations for the decline of revenue of the music industry? Do you think they are just excuses to continue sharing music or are they legitimate?
3. What is your reaction to the RIAA's reasons to stop piracy? Do you think suing music sharers is a good strategy? Will music piracy ever slow down?
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Future of Newspapers?
This guy is slow to get going in his article, but some interesting thoughts on newspapers. Quote:
The Internet wrecks the old newspaper business model in two ways. It moves information with zero variable cost, which means it has no barriers to growth, unlike a newspaper, which has to pay for paper, ink and transportation in direct proportion to the number of copies produced.
And the Internet's entry costs are low. Anyone with a computer can become a publisher, as Matt Drudge demonstrated when he broke the Monica Lewinsky story in 1998 and countless bloggers have shown in the decade since. These cost advantages make it feasible to make a business out of highly specialized information, a trend that was under way well before the Internet.
...
One of the rules of thumb for coping with substitute technology is to narrow your focus to the area that is the least vulnerable to substitution.
...
Newspapers might have a chance if they can meet that need by holding on to the kind of [specialized, investigative] content that gives them their natural community influence. To keep the resources for doing that, they will have to jettison the frivolous items in the content buffet.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Reaction Paper #6 due 10-9
Here are the articles:
http://www.media-awareness.ca/english/issues/stereotyping/women_and_girls/women_beauty.cfm
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?sec=health&res=9A03E4DC1E3EF933A15756C0A96F958260
http://seedmagazine.com/news/2006/09/the_media_assault_on_male_body.php
And a couple short ones:
http://health.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/childrenshealth/hb050801a.htm
http://www.newsweek.com/id/112714
What is your reaction to these stories (be sure to share specific details from the articles)? (You don't have to share this, but:) do you feel the same pressures from the mass media? What do you think about little kids having their school photos retouched? Why do we value perfection so much in our culture? Will things get worse before they get better? How can we improve things?
http://www.media-awareness.ca/english/issues/stereotyping/women_and_girls/women_beauty.cfm
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?sec=health&res=9A03E4DC1E3EF933A15756C0A96F958260
http://seedmagazine.com/news/2006/09/the_media_assault_on_male_body.php
And a couple short ones:
http://health.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/childrenshealth/hb050801a.htm
http://www.newsweek.com/id/112714
What is your reaction to these stories (be sure to share specific details from the articles)? (You don't have to share this, but:) do you feel the same pressures from the mass media? What do you think about little kids having their school photos retouched? Why do we value perfection so much in our culture? Will things get worse before they get better? How can we improve things?
Friday, October 3, 2008
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Muckracking
Here is Nelly Bly's Ten Days in a Madhouse. It's a bit long but very interesting as an early piece of investigative journalism.
Oh.. and what did you think of the VP debate?
Oh.. and what did you think of the VP debate?
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Research Paper info
Here is some information about your research paper due November 20.
Shoot for about 1200 words (4-5 solid pages double-spaced)
Pick a topic in the mass media that you are interested in.
It could be relating to a TV show, band, album, website, radio show, movie, video game, etc. It could also be a media law or a subject like photojournalism ethics (more examples down below).
Give me a history of your subject. Tell me why it matters. Put it in some historical context -- what came before it, what it compares to now, and what might came after it (or might come after it in in the future). Tell me something I don't know.
For example, you might pick to write about the show 24.
You might start off with a short history of the show and how it came to be. Tell me how many people watch it each week. Why is it so popular? What do critics say about it?
Then you could focus on 24 and torture. How is torture portrayed? As something good or bad? Has the way 24 portrayed torture influenced America's perception of torture? Not just what you think, but use evidence from any studies you can find.
You might wrap it up with a look at the show's status, especially in the light of the writer's strike.
There you have it. Try not to put any opinion in, and let research do the talking.
Remember, no Wikipedia! You can use it as a starting point and use the sources listed, but not Wikipedia itself.
Finally, remember to cite all the sources you use. You can cite your sources in your papers at the end, but also throughout, like this:
The New York Times states that "24" has 21 million viewers.
or
"24" has 21 million viewers (NY Times, 2005).
Use an APA style works cited page at the end. If it's not properly formatted, automatic 5 points off, if it's missing altogether, 10 points off (or I might ask you to write one and give it to me if I can't figure out what your sources are). Use this:
http://www.liu.edu/cwis/cwp/library/workshop/citapa.htm
Don't be afraid to venture to the library.
Let me know if you have any questions or if I can help brainstorm ideas for your subject.
Due Monday, November 20. 50 points (as much as a test). 5 points off for every day late (first 5 points if it's to me after midnight the day it is due, like usual).
More possible topics:
Plagiarism in the mass media
KCCI vs WHO in Des Moines (compare and contrast news featured during same time slot)
Has "24" affected our views on torture?
How has the mass media changed after 9/11?
Subliminal advertising
Video game addiction
Rap (or heavy metal or whatever) and its place in our culture
YouTube's influence
How the Internet has affected the music industry
Pirating music/software online
Colbert Report vs O'Reilly Factor
Influence of particular film director (or music producer)
Telecommunications Act of 1996
The FCC's influence on radio or broadcast
Philo Farnsworth
The Iraq War and the media
How the media has changed the way it has covered war (you could compare Vietnam and Iraq)
Propaganda (especially Triumph of the Will)
Advertising and the Internet
History of the Internet
KDKA - the first radio station
Orson Welles
Is there a liberal bias in the media?
Compare CNN to Fox News
Future of home video (DVD's, etc.)
How media in another country compares to the U.S.
Apple vs. Microsoft
Analyze a particular advertising campaign
Ethics - photojournalism, news, advertising, etc.
Censorship of the Internet in China
History and affect of YouTube
Blogging
The Daily Show affect
The Facebook affect
"The Mickey Mouse" copyright extension act of 1998
Shoot for about 1200 words (4-5 solid pages double-spaced)
Pick a topic in the mass media that you are interested in.
It could be relating to a TV show, band, album, website, radio show, movie, video game, etc. It could also be a media law or a subject like photojournalism ethics (more examples down below).
Give me a history of your subject. Tell me why it matters. Put it in some historical context -- what came before it, what it compares to now, and what might came after it (or might come after it in in the future). Tell me something I don't know.
For example, you might pick to write about the show 24.
You might start off with a short history of the show and how it came to be. Tell me how many people watch it each week. Why is it so popular? What do critics say about it?
Then you could focus on 24 and torture. How is torture portrayed? As something good or bad? Has the way 24 portrayed torture influenced America's perception of torture? Not just what you think, but use evidence from any studies you can find.
You might wrap it up with a look at the show's status, especially in the light of the writer's strike.
There you have it. Try not to put any opinion in, and let research do the talking.
Remember, no Wikipedia! You can use it as a starting point and use the sources listed, but not Wikipedia itself.
Finally, remember to cite all the sources you use. You can cite your sources in your papers at the end, but also throughout, like this:
The New York Times states that "24" has 21 million viewers.
or
"24" has 21 million viewers (NY Times, 2005).
Use an APA style works cited page at the end. If it's not properly formatted, automatic 5 points off, if it's missing altogether, 10 points off (or I might ask you to write one and give it to me if I can't figure out what your sources are). Use this:
http://www.liu.edu/cwis/cwp/library/workshop/citapa.htm
Don't be afraid to venture to the library.
Let me know if you have any questions or if I can help brainstorm ideas for your subject.
Due Monday, November 20. 50 points (as much as a test). 5 points off for every day late (first 5 points if it's to me after midnight the day it is due, like usual).
More possible topics:
Plagiarism in the mass media
KCCI vs WHO in Des Moines (compare and contrast news featured during same time slot)
Has "24" affected our views on torture?
How has the mass media changed after 9/11?
Subliminal advertising
Video game addiction
Rap (or heavy metal or whatever) and its place in our culture
YouTube's influence
How the Internet has affected the music industry
Pirating music/software online
Colbert Report vs O'Reilly Factor
Influence of particular film director (or music producer)
Telecommunications Act of 1996
The FCC's influence on radio or broadcast
Philo Farnsworth
The Iraq War and the media
How the media has changed the way it has covered war (you could compare Vietnam and Iraq)
Propaganda (especially Triumph of the Will)
Advertising and the Internet
History of the Internet
KDKA - the first radio station
Orson Welles
Is there a liberal bias in the media?
Compare CNN to Fox News
Future of home video (DVD's, etc.)
How media in another country compares to the U.S.
Apple vs. Microsoft
Analyze a particular advertising campaign
Ethics - photojournalism, news, advertising, etc.
Censorship of the Internet in China
History and affect of YouTube
Blogging
The Daily Show affect
The Facebook affect
"The Mickey Mouse" copyright extension act of 1998
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Friday, September 26, 2008
Study Guide Exam 2
Chapter 12 - News Gathering
Newsworthiness - what makes something news?
Hard news vs Soft news
Types of reporters
Print vs Broadcast news - pro's and cons of each
What is the AP?
Syndication
Jayson Blair
Online news trends
From lecture:
Nelly Bly, Ida Tarbell, Joseph Pulitzer, Watergate (Woodward/Bernstein), Gonzo Journalism, photojournalism, Edward R. Murrow
Infotainment
Herd/Pack journalism
Ch 13 - Public Relations
PR compared to advertising
modes of communication in PR
history of PR
External PR firm vs Internal department
PR messages/media
Steps in PR campaign
From lecture:
Reputation management
crisis communication
spin
PR blunders and disasters
astroturfing
propaganda vs PR
Ch 14 - Advertising
functions and dysfunctions of advertising
what changes in society had to happen to lead up to advertising?
different eras in the history of advertising
primary demand ads
selective demand ads
economics of advertising (how much is spent in what medium?)
effectiveness of ads?
online advertising tactics
role of the advertising agency
factual vs emotional appeals
from lecture:
viral ads
why brands
false advertising
advertising appeals/weasel words
Essay questions (I'll give you two, you pick one)
1. Our book lists many different settings or areas for public relations work. One would be PR for businesses. Please list four other areas and a description with example(s) for each.
2. Compare and contrast the presentation of news in both the print media and broadcast media. Consider the limitations and advantages of each.
3. Please describe the social and technological evolution that paved the way for modern day advertisers (starting around the Industrial Revolution).
4. List and describe two ways the Internet has affected 1. journalism, 2. public relations, and 3. advertising? Which has been affected the most in your opinion?
Newsworthiness - what makes something news?
Hard news vs Soft news
Types of reporters
Print vs Broadcast news - pro's and cons of each
What is the AP?
Syndication
Jayson Blair
Online news trends
From lecture:
Nelly Bly, Ida Tarbell, Joseph Pulitzer, Watergate (Woodward/Bernstein), Gonzo Journalism, photojournalism, Edward R. Murrow
Infotainment
Herd/Pack journalism
Ch 13 - Public Relations
PR compared to advertising
modes of communication in PR
history of PR
External PR firm vs Internal department
PR messages/media
Steps in PR campaign
From lecture:
Reputation management
crisis communication
spin
PR blunders and disasters
astroturfing
propaganda vs PR
Ch 14 - Advertising
functions and dysfunctions of advertising
what changes in society had to happen to lead up to advertising?
different eras in the history of advertising
primary demand ads
selective demand ads
economics of advertising (how much is spent in what medium?)
effectiveness of ads?
online advertising tactics
role of the advertising agency
factual vs emotional appeals
from lecture:
viral ads
why brands
false advertising
advertising appeals/weasel words
Essay questions (I'll give you two, you pick one)
1. Our book lists many different settings or areas for public relations work. One would be PR for businesses. Please list four other areas and a description with example(s) for each.
2. Compare and contrast the presentation of news in both the print media and broadcast media. Consider the limitations and advantages of each.
3. Please describe the social and technological evolution that paved the way for modern day advertisers (starting around the Industrial Revolution).
4. List and describe two ways the Internet has affected 1. journalism, 2. public relations, and 3. advertising? Which has been affected the most in your opinion?
Reaction Paper #5
We had Constitution Day not long ago on campus, so I thought we might talk about the First Amendment.
1. Without looking, what freedoms does the First Amendment give us? (do your best)
Then, read this:
http://www.law.cornell.edu/constitution/constitution.billofrights.html
and this
http://www.firstamendmentcenter.org/news.aspx?id=19031
and this
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6888837/
and this one, not long after 9/11
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2002/08/30/national/main520314.shtml
2. Are you surprised by the firstamendmentcenter.org and msnbc survey results? What surprises you the most?
3. Do you think it is fair to give up some rights after 9-11 if it keeps us safe? Do you see examples where the First Amendment goes too far, or does it not go far enough?
1. Without looking, what freedoms does the First Amendment give us? (do your best)
Then, read this:
http://www.law.cornell.edu/constitution/constitution.billofrights.html
and this
http://www.firstamendmentcenter.org/news.aspx?id=19031
and this
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6888837/
and this one, not long after 9/11
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2002/08/30/national/main520314.shtml
2. Are you surprised by the firstamendmentcenter.org and msnbc survey results? What surprises you the most?
3. Do you think it is fair to give up some rights after 9-11 if it keeps us safe? Do you see examples where the First Amendment goes too far, or does it not go far enough?
Friday, September 19, 2008
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Reaction Paper #4
This one is a little more complex and involves playing a video game. Fun, huh? Here is the page:
http://hcsoftware.sourceforge.net/passage/
Go to the "downloads" and you can get it for Mac or Windows (you might want to try on your computer if you have one, not a campus one).
AFTER you play the game (it takes 5 minutes or so), write a response and reaction of what you think the game means (or what it means to you).
Ok, now wait until you've written it. Now move on..
Read this statement by the maker:
http://hcsoftware.sourceforge.net/passage/statement.html
...how does this compare to what you thought the game was about? Was there an emotional response for you? If so, how can something so simple draw an emotional reaction? Do video games have as much potential for an emotional story as movies, or even moreso?
http://hcsoftware.sourceforge.net/passage/
Go to the "downloads" and you can get it for Mac or Windows (you might want to try on your computer if you have one, not a campus one).
AFTER you play the game (it takes 5 minutes or so), write a response and reaction of what you think the game means (or what it means to you).
Ok, now wait until you've written it. Now move on..
Read this statement by the maker:
http://hcsoftware.sourceforge.net/passage/statement.html
...how does this compare to what you thought the game was about? Was there an emotional response for you? If so, how can something so simple draw an emotional reaction? Do video games have as much potential for an emotional story as movies, or even moreso?
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Friday, September 12, 2008
Informal poll...
What are your thoughts on WebCT? Do you prefer a website like this or using WebCT? You can be honest. :)
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Reaction Paper #3
Here's your third paper! Also, Henry Rollins is speaking next Thursday (the 18th) at Stephens Auditorium in Ames at 8 p.m. If you want to go and write a summary and reaction to what he says, you can get extra credit. Google Henry Rollins if you have never heard of him, he's quite the character.
Anyway, here is the third paper assignment:
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9F0CE5DC1239F93BA15751C0A965958260&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=all
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,981132,00.html
http://www.walthowe.com/navnet/history.html
The first two are early stories about the World Wide Web. The third is a bit of history about how it came about. I'd like to hear your reaction to the first two stories and how you think things have changed since then. Do you remember your first time online? (I remember being impressed that you could talk to someone in Canada!). Why was the Internet first created?
Anyway, here is the third paper assignment:
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9F0CE5DC1239F93BA15751C0A965958260&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=all
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,981132,00.html
http://www.walthowe.com/navnet/history.html
The first two are early stories about the World Wide Web. The third is a bit of history about how it came about. I'd like to hear your reaction to the first two stories and how you think things have changed since then. Do you remember your first time online? (I remember being impressed that you could talk to someone in Canada!). Why was the Internet first created?
Saturday, September 6, 2008
McCain vs. Heart
Does the McCain campaign have to stop playing Heart's "Barracuda"?
What do you think should they stop because they ask?
What do you think should they stop because they ask?
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Reaction Paper #2
Here's number 2!
http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/school_law/2008/01/hazelwood_at_20.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/11/AR2008011102775.html
http://www.cnn.com/2007/LAW/06/25/free.speech/index.html
Question: It's the 20th anniversary of "Hazelwood" -- a case that helped set precedent for high school journalism and the ability for schools to impose "prior restraint" (censorship). Do you think high schools should have as much freedom of the press as newspapers do? Are things different than 20 years ago, now that students are able to publish on their own on the Internet if they want? Is there a difference between a high schooler writing for a school paper or writing in a blog? Do you agree with the decision in the "Bog hits 4 Jesus" case?
http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/school_law/2008/01/hazelwood_at_20.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/11/AR2008011102775.html
http://www.cnn.com/2007/LAW/06/25/free.speech/index.html
Question: It's the 20th anniversary of "Hazelwood" -- a case that helped set precedent for high school journalism and the ability for schools to impose "prior restraint" (censorship). Do you think high schools should have as much freedom of the press as newspapers do? Are things different than 20 years ago, now that students are able to publish on their own on the Internet if they want? Is there a difference between a high schooler writing for a school paper or writing in a blog? Do you agree with the decision in the "Bog hits 4 Jesus" case?
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Word count
I had a question about word count. It's fine if you go over the minimum word count if you feel you are on a roll.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Study Guide Exam 1
For our first test on Thursday, Sept. 11:
Chapter 1
Types of communication
Traditional mass media model / Internet mass media model
Traditional media vs. the Internet
Noise.. semantic, environmental, mechanical
Know the communications process chart
Gatekeepers
Chapter 2
Convergence
Functional approach to mass media: the five Macro approaches (surveillance, interpretation, linkage, transfer of values, entertainment)
Uses and gratifications approach (what it is, what the book says it assumes, it's four categories- cognition, diversion, social utility, withdrawl)
Dysfunctions of the mass media
Myths and Rituals
Status conferral, credibility
Chapter 3
Chronological order of mass media
Names associated with the inventions of mass media listed
The social impact of different types of mass media (TV, radio, Internet, etc.)
"Atoms vs Bits"
From lecture (if you missed, you might have to go online to look these up)
Know what the digital divide is
Demassification
Digitization
The Long Tail
Finally, I'm going to give you TWO of these four questions and you will pick one to write an essay:
(1) What is demassification and "The Long Tail"? Why are online retailers suited for "The Long Tail?" Why do advertisers like demassification?
(2) At the individual or "micro" level, the book talks about the uses and gratifications theory. Please explain the theory with examples of which gratifications are fulfilled.
(3) With several examples for each, please describe the social impact of 1) writing 2) printing 3) telegraph 4) Internet 5) Radio.
(4) The compare and contrast three eras of the critical/cultural media perspectives from Chapter 2 and what they say about the relationship between the mass media and control of power: The Frankfurt School model, the British model, and the 1970s Feminist movement.
Chapter 1
Types of communication
Traditional mass media model / Internet mass media model
Traditional media vs. the Internet
Noise.. semantic, environmental, mechanical
Know the communications process chart
Gatekeepers
Chapter 2
Convergence
Functional approach to mass media: the five Macro approaches (surveillance, interpretation, linkage, transfer of values, entertainment)
Uses and gratifications approach (what it is, what the book says it assumes, it's four categories- cognition, diversion, social utility, withdrawl)
Dysfunctions of the mass media
Myths and Rituals
Status conferral, credibility
Chapter 3
Chronological order of mass media
Names associated with the inventions of mass media listed
The social impact of different types of mass media (TV, radio, Internet, etc.)
"Atoms vs Bits"
From lecture (if you missed, you might have to go online to look these up)
Know what the digital divide is
Demassification
Digitization
The Long Tail
Finally, I'm going to give you TWO of these four questions and you will pick one to write an essay:
(1) What is demassification and "The Long Tail"? Why are online retailers suited for "The Long Tail?" Why do advertisers like demassification?
(2) At the individual or "micro" level, the book talks about the uses and gratifications theory. Please explain the theory with examples of which gratifications are fulfilled.
(3) With several examples for each, please describe the social impact of 1) writing 2) printing 3) telegraph 4) Internet 5) Radio.
(4) The compare and contrast three eras of the critical/cultural media perspectives from Chapter 2 and what they say about the relationship between the mass media and control of power: The Frankfurt School model, the British model, and the 1970s Feminist movement.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Reaction Paper #1
Reaction Paper #1 Due Thursday 9/4 by midnight.
Read these articles about Facebook:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/32261
http://www.startribune.com/local/west/13549646.html
http://www.newsweek.com/id/32332
Pick either (1) or (2) to answer:
(1) Do you think people spend too much time on Facebook? Is Facebook time any "better" or "worse" than real-life social interaction? Does Facebook affect schoolwork any more than TV or video games? When you "friend" someone, are they really a friend? Do you know anyone addicted to Facebook (and would you classify it as a real "addiction"?)
(2) Do high school officials have a right to scour Facebook or MySpace pages to find evidence and punish students? What are the arguments here? What about students' privacy? If the page is set to private, is it any different than trying to go into someone's room and search? As a side note, should schools ban Facebook and MySpace?
You have about 500 words. This isn't as formal as a research paper, but I still expect complete sentences and grammar.
The grading of course is subjective, but the more thought and insight you put into your paper the better. If you throw it together with a lot of filler and not much substance, don't expect too high a grade. It's always good to cite examples from the reading to make your point.
You can discuss the questions there in the comments of the blog if you wish.
You can turn it in during class or email it to me.
Last thing: If you are interested in taking my advertising class, let me know and I can give you more info! We still have a few seats left (it meets right after our class).
Andy
Read these articles about Facebook:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/32261
http://www.startribune.com/local/west/13549646.html
http://www.newsweek.com/id/32332
Pick either (1) or (2) to answer:
(1) Do you think people spend too much time on Facebook? Is Facebook time any "better" or "worse" than real-life social interaction? Does Facebook affect schoolwork any more than TV or video games? When you "friend" someone, are they really a friend? Do you know anyone addicted to Facebook (and would you classify it as a real "addiction"?)
(2) Do high school officials have a right to scour Facebook or MySpace pages to find evidence and punish students? What are the arguments here? What about students' privacy? If the page is set to private, is it any different than trying to go into someone's room and search? As a side note, should schools ban Facebook and MySpace?
You have about 500 words. This isn't as formal as a research paper, but I still expect complete sentences and grammar.
The grading of course is subjective, but the more thought and insight you put into your paper the better. If you throw it together with a lot of filler and not much substance, don't expect too high a grade. It's always good to cite examples from the reading to make your point.
You can discuss the questions there in the comments of the blog if you wish.
You can turn it in during class or email it to me.
Last thing: If you are interested in taking my advertising class, let me know and I can give you more info! We still have a few seats left (it meets right after our class).
Andy
Syllabus!
JOU 110 - Intro to Mass Media
Fall 2008 - Ankeny Campus
Andy Langager, Instructor
andylangager@gmail.com
Class website: http://media110.blogspot.com
Cell phone: 319-290-8229
Office: Building 3W, Room 2 (The Chronicle room, office inside on the left)
Office Hours: By appointment
This class meets TR 9:40 -11:05 a.m., 3E Room 127
Required Text:
Dominick, Joseph R. The Dynamics of Mass Communications, 9th Ed.
Attendance policy: Attendance is required. There will be pop quizzes throughout the semester to encourage attendance. Quizzes will cover readings and the news.
If you must miss a class, it is your responsibility to catch up on missing assignments or lessons. If you know you are going to miss class, I do appreciate a phone call or email to let me know.
Academic dishonesty: Cheating and plagiarism will not be tolerated and will be dealt with according to DMACC's official policies. Always cite your sources, never lift other sentences word for word without using quotes.
Academic Achievement Center: MW 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. / TR 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
For an appointment call 515-633-2472
Course goals:
•Recognize the role of media in changing political and cultural dynamics on the global stage
•Develop a strong historical sense of how mass communications technologies originated and developed into what they are today.
ªUnderstand the variety of relationships among media and their audiences
•Understand the ongoing government regulations of the U.S. media, as well as the constitutional principles that guide it
•Recognize the ethical and philosophical issues that arise in media culture and understand the range of viewpoints regarding each issue
•Understand the behind-the-scenes operations and decision-making processes of all major mass communications industries
•Understand the process of pursuing a full range of media careers and the tasks that each career requires
Day to day assignments: Assignments, unless otherwise noted, are expected to be finished the day they are listed.
Reaction Papers: Throughout the semester, you will write a weekly reaction paper based on a reading. They will be about 500 words and will be based on a theme or question given with the reading. Papers will be assigned Thursdays and will be due the following Thursday (dropped in my mailbox or emailed if we don't have class). We will do 12 or 13 papers and you can drop your lowest scores (your 10 best scores will count).
Research paper: About half way through the semester, you will turn in a paper on the topic of your choice. This will be your chance to research something you are interested in and teach me about it. It will be about 800-1000 words and use at least three credible sources.
Special Project: There will be a special group presentation project later on in the semester. I will give you more information about that when the time comes.
Exams: There will be four exams (including the final). There will be one covering each of the parts in the book (with Parts IV and V being grouped together).
Grading:
Exams: 4 x 50 points = 200 points total
Reaction Papers:10 papers x 10 points each = 100 points
Research paper: 50 points
Special project: 50 points
Quizzes and participation: 50 points
= 450 total points
Grading scale:
95-100% A
90-94 A-
87-89 B+
84-86 B
80-83 B-
77-79 C+
74-76 C
70-73 C-
67-69 D+
64-66 D
60-63 D-
59 and lower F
Staying in touch with the media: Since this class is all about the mass media, I encourage you to stay current, especially with news (whether it be TV, Internet, or radio). From time to time I will have a daily assignment for this.
Late assignments. Late assignments (without legitimate excuse) will be docked 5 points per day, with a max penalty of 50%. Papers will not be accepted 7 days after due date.
You have until midnight the day the assignment is due to get it to me, after that, it's the first 5 points off.
Missing an exam: If you plan on missing an exam, you must get it pre-approved by me. If you miss an exam due to unforeseen circumstances, whether you get to make it up is at the discretion of the instructor. In general, exams can't be made up unless you have a doctor's note or there was an emergency.
Emailing assignments: There may come a time when you need to email an assignment to me. I am fine with this, but please realize: You are responsible if the email is delivered to me late, even if it's not your fault, and, emailing assignment does not give you license to skip class that day. I will reply to all emailed assignments so you know I got it.
Classroom conduct: It goes without saying to treat fellow classmates (as well as your instructor!) with respect. Please turn cell phones to vibrate and leave the class without disruption if you need to make a call, get a drink, etc. Please don't read newspapers, work on other assignments, or have side conversations during class time. Also, please come to class on time.
Conferences: Feel free to schedule a conference with me anytime. Email is a great way to reach me; I check it often. I may not be on campus everyday, so scheduling a meeting is the best way to get a hold of me. My office is in Room 2 (The Chronicle room), building 3W.
DMACC websites
Admissions & registration http://www.dmacc.edu/potienti.asp
WebCT http://webct.dmacc.edu/webct/public/home.pl
Student handbook http://www.dmacc.edu/handbook/welcome.asp
Add/drop dates http://www.dmacc.edu/registration/add_drop.asp
Refund policy http://www.dmacc.edu/refund.asp
Library (Building 6 Ankeny) http://www.library.dmacc.edu/
Support services
"It is the policy of DMACC to accommodate students with disabilities. Any student with a documented disability who requires reasonable accommodation should contact the special needs coordinator at 515-964-6850 voice or 515-964-6810 TTY." Also, http://www.dmacc.edu/student_services/disabilities.asp
Important: For each reading assignment listed, you should have it completed for the day it is listed.
Part I: Nature and History of Mass Communications
Tuesday - August 26
Introduction, discuss syllabus, Wikipedia, plagiarism
Thursday - August 28
Chapter 1 - Communication: Mass and Other Forms
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - September 2
Chapter 2 - Perspectives on Mass Communication
Thursday - September 4
Chapter 3 - Historical Context
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - September 9
Chapter 3 continued, video
Thursday - September 11
Exam #1
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Part II: Specific Professions
Tuesday - September 16
Chapter 12 - News Gathering and Reporting
Thursday - September 18
Class exercise - The Crime Scene
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - September 23
Chapter 13 - Publics Relations
Small groups - PR
Thursday - September 25
Chapter 14 - Advertising
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - September 30
Bring a magazine ad to class
Video - The Persuaders
Thursday - October 2
Exam #2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Part III: Media
Tuesday - October 7
Chapter 4 - Newspapers
Video (if time): Newspaper Wars z 286 .N48 N48 1989
Thursday - October 9
Chapter 5 & 6 - Magazines and books
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - October 14
Chapter 7 - Radio
Listen to some old radio shows including War of the Worlds
Video clip from Battle Over Citizen Kane
Thursday - October 16
Chapter 8 - Sound recording
Small groups - File sharing
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - October 21
Chapter 9 - Motion Pictures
Watch examples of early films
Thursday - October 23
Chapter 10 - Television
(if time) Video - Film in the Television Age PN 1993.5 .A1 A44 1994 pt.8
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - October 28
Chapter 11 - Internet
Bring three unique facts about the Internet to class
Thursday - October 30
Video games
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - November 4 (Nov. 3 last day to drop)
Exam #3
Parts IV & V: Regulations and Impact of Mass Media
Thursday - November 6
Chapter 15 - Formal Controls: Laws, Rules, Regulations
Small groups - nuclear power plant scenario
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - November 11
Chapter 15 continued
Video: Frontline: News War
Thursday - November 13
Chapter 16 - Ethics and Other Informal Controls
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - November 18
Movie - Shattered Glass
Thursday - November 20
Finished Shattered Glass, discuss
Chapter 17 - The Global Village
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - November 25
Chapter 18 - Social Effects of Mass Communication
Thursday - November 27 - Thanksgiving - No school!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - December 2
Chapt 18 continued (if needed)
Begin Special Project presentations
Thursday - December 4
Special Project presentations
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final : Thursday, Dec. 11, 9 a.m.
Disclaimer: "This syllabus is representative of materials that will be covered in this class; it is not a contract between the student and the institution. It is subject o change without notice. Any potential exceptions to stated policies and requirements would be addressed on an individual basis, and only for reasons that meet specific requirements. If you have an problems related to this class, please feel free to discuss them with me."
Fall 2008 - Ankeny Campus
Andy Langager, Instructor
andylangager@gmail.com
Class website: http://media110.blogspot.com
Cell phone: 319-290-8229
Office: Building 3W, Room 2 (The Chronicle room, office inside on the left)
Office Hours: By appointment
This class meets TR 9:40 -11:05 a.m., 3E Room 127
Required Text:
Dominick, Joseph R. The Dynamics of Mass Communications, 9th Ed.
Attendance policy: Attendance is required. There will be pop quizzes throughout the semester to encourage attendance. Quizzes will cover readings and the news.
If you must miss a class, it is your responsibility to catch up on missing assignments or lessons. If you know you are going to miss class, I do appreciate a phone call or email to let me know.
Academic dishonesty: Cheating and plagiarism will not be tolerated and will be dealt with according to DMACC's official policies. Always cite your sources, never lift other sentences word for word without using quotes.
Academic Achievement Center: MW 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. / TR 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
For an appointment call 515-633-2472
Course goals:
•Recognize the role of media in changing political and cultural dynamics on the global stage
•Develop a strong historical sense of how mass communications technologies originated and developed into what they are today.
ªUnderstand the variety of relationships among media and their audiences
•Understand the ongoing government regulations of the U.S. media, as well as the constitutional principles that guide it
•Recognize the ethical and philosophical issues that arise in media culture and understand the range of viewpoints regarding each issue
•Understand the behind-the-scenes operations and decision-making processes of all major mass communications industries
•Understand the process of pursuing a full range of media careers and the tasks that each career requires
Day to day assignments: Assignments, unless otherwise noted, are expected to be finished the day they are listed.
Reaction Papers: Throughout the semester, you will write a weekly reaction paper based on a reading. They will be about 500 words and will be based on a theme or question given with the reading. Papers will be assigned Thursdays and will be due the following Thursday (dropped in my mailbox or emailed if we don't have class). We will do 12 or 13 papers and you can drop your lowest scores (your 10 best scores will count).
Research paper: About half way through the semester, you will turn in a paper on the topic of your choice. This will be your chance to research something you are interested in and teach me about it. It will be about 800-1000 words and use at least three credible sources.
Special Project: There will be a special group presentation project later on in the semester. I will give you more information about that when the time comes.
Exams: There will be four exams (including the final). There will be one covering each of the parts in the book (with Parts IV and V being grouped together).
Grading:
Exams: 4 x 50 points = 200 points total
Reaction Papers:10 papers x 10 points each = 100 points
Research paper: 50 points
Special project: 50 points
Quizzes and participation: 50 points
= 450 total points
Grading scale:
95-100% A
90-94 A-
87-89 B+
84-86 B
80-83 B-
77-79 C+
74-76 C
70-73 C-
67-69 D+
64-66 D
60-63 D-
59 and lower F
Staying in touch with the media: Since this class is all about the mass media, I encourage you to stay current, especially with news (whether it be TV, Internet, or radio). From time to time I will have a daily assignment for this.
Late assignments. Late assignments (without legitimate excuse) will be docked 5 points per day, with a max penalty of 50%. Papers will not be accepted 7 days after due date.
You have until midnight the day the assignment is due to get it to me, after that, it's the first 5 points off.
Missing an exam: If you plan on missing an exam, you must get it pre-approved by me. If you miss an exam due to unforeseen circumstances, whether you get to make it up is at the discretion of the instructor. In general, exams can't be made up unless you have a doctor's note or there was an emergency.
Emailing assignments: There may come a time when you need to email an assignment to me. I am fine with this, but please realize: You are responsible if the email is delivered to me late, even if it's not your fault, and, emailing assignment does not give you license to skip class that day. I will reply to all emailed assignments so you know I got it.
Classroom conduct: It goes without saying to treat fellow classmates (as well as your instructor!) with respect. Please turn cell phones to vibrate and leave the class without disruption if you need to make a call, get a drink, etc. Please don't read newspapers, work on other assignments, or have side conversations during class time. Also, please come to class on time.
Conferences: Feel free to schedule a conference with me anytime. Email is a great way to reach me; I check it often. I may not be on campus everyday, so scheduling a meeting is the best way to get a hold of me. My office is in Room 2 (The Chronicle room), building 3W.
DMACC websites
Admissions & registration http://www.dmacc.edu/potienti.asp
WebCT http://webct.dmacc.edu/webct/public/home.pl
Student handbook http://www.dmacc.edu/handbook/welcome.asp
Add/drop dates http://www.dmacc.edu/registration/add_drop.asp
Refund policy http://www.dmacc.edu/refund.asp
Library (Building 6 Ankeny) http://www.library.dmacc.edu/
Support services
"It is the policy of DMACC to accommodate students with disabilities. Any student with a documented disability who requires reasonable accommodation should contact the special needs coordinator at 515-964-6850 voice or 515-964-6810 TTY." Also, http://www.dmacc.edu/student_services/disabilities.asp
Important: For each reading assignment listed, you should have it completed for the day it is listed.
Part I: Nature and History of Mass Communications
Tuesday - August 26
Introduction, discuss syllabus, Wikipedia, plagiarism
Thursday - August 28
Chapter 1 - Communication: Mass and Other Forms
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - September 2
Chapter 2 - Perspectives on Mass Communication
Thursday - September 4
Chapter 3 - Historical Context
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - September 9
Chapter 3 continued, video
Thursday - September 11
Exam #1
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Part II: Specific Professions
Tuesday - September 16
Chapter 12 - News Gathering and Reporting
Thursday - September 18
Class exercise - The Crime Scene
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - September 23
Chapter 13 - Publics Relations
Small groups - PR
Thursday - September 25
Chapter 14 - Advertising
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - September 30
Bring a magazine ad to class
Video - The Persuaders
Thursday - October 2
Exam #2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Part III: Media
Tuesday - October 7
Chapter 4 - Newspapers
Video (if time): Newspaper Wars z 286 .N48 N48 1989
Thursday - October 9
Chapter 5 & 6 - Magazines and books
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - October 14
Chapter 7 - Radio
Listen to some old radio shows including War of the Worlds
Video clip from Battle Over Citizen Kane
Thursday - October 16
Chapter 8 - Sound recording
Small groups - File sharing
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - October 21
Chapter 9 - Motion Pictures
Watch examples of early films
Thursday - October 23
Chapter 10 - Television
(if time) Video - Film in the Television Age PN 1993.5 .A1 A44 1994 pt.8
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - October 28
Chapter 11 - Internet
Bring three unique facts about the Internet to class
Thursday - October 30
Video games
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - November 4 (Nov. 3 last day to drop)
Exam #3
Parts IV & V: Regulations and Impact of Mass Media
Thursday - November 6
Chapter 15 - Formal Controls: Laws, Rules, Regulations
Small groups - nuclear power plant scenario
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - November 11
Chapter 15 continued
Video: Frontline: News War
Thursday - November 13
Chapter 16 - Ethics and Other Informal Controls
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - November 18
Movie - Shattered Glass
Thursday - November 20
Finished Shattered Glass, discuss
Chapter 17 - The Global Village
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - November 25
Chapter 18 - Social Effects of Mass Communication
Thursday - November 27 - Thanksgiving - No school!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - December 2
Chapt 18 continued (if needed)
Begin Special Project presentations
Thursday - December 4
Special Project presentations
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final : Thursday, Dec. 11, 9 a.m.
Disclaimer: "This syllabus is representative of materials that will be covered in this class; it is not a contract between the student and the institution. It is subject o change without notice. Any potential exceptions to stated policies and requirements would be addressed on an individual basis, and only for reasons that meet specific requirements. If you have an problems related to this class, please feel free to discuss them with me."
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Welcome
Welcome to the blog of JOU 110. Check back for updates, and email me if you would like to post a topic for discussion.
Andy
Andy
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