Introduction to Communication Studies

Academic year: 2009-2010 Course code module 1BPSW-05 Semester: 1st semester Credits: 6 Study load (hours) 168 Theory (hours): 45,00 Practice/Exercises(hours): Other (hours): Part-time program: Instructor(s) Heidi Vandebosch Language of instruction: Dutch Semester exam information: Contract restriction information: 1. Prerequisites *Algemene competenties No specific prerequisites. *Sequentiality None 2. Objectives (expected learning outcomes) The students know the most important definitions of communication and can evaluate them critically. The students can describe the basic elements of the communication process and recognize them in concrete situations.   The students know the most important communication models and are able to distinguish the differences and similarities among them.  The students are familiar with the subfields of communication science and the theories linked with them. They have basic notions of: verbal and non-verbal communication; interpersonal communication, organisation communication, mass communication, ICT.   The students are aware of the diversity of communication science as an academic field.   The students know the milestones in communication research and their main representatives. The students are able to situate these studies and scholars within their historical context. The students can evaluate actual cases on the basis of their theoretical knowledge. 3. Course content This introductory course in communication science makes the students familiar with basic concepts and theories of the different subfields.  First, the most important existing definitions of communication and the dominant communication models will be described. After that, attention will be paid to two basic forms of communication: verbal and non-verbal communication. A third part of the course is dedicated to several communication levels: interpersonal communication, organisation communication and mass communication. The latter topic is treated more in detail in a fourth chapter, which describes the main media studies, researchers and theories (e.g. agenda setting, spiral of silence, two-step-flow, cultivation, uses and gratifications...). Finally, attention will be paid to "new" media (ICT) and the information society. 4. Teaching method Direct contact: Lectures 5. Assessment method Exam: Written, without oral presentation Closed book 6. Compulsory reading – study material Reader provided by the lecturer.  7. Recommended reading - study material Nihil 8. Tutoring Students may contact Heidi Vandebosch for further information/with questions about this course (heidi.vandebosch@ua.ac.be) laatste aanpassing: last update: 16/11/2009 11:47 sonja.vos