Course Brief
Introduction to Media Theory is a foundation course for the Creative Media Production, Graphic Design, Media and Communications and Mass Communications pathways. The broad purpose of this unit is to provide learners with an understanding of the contemporary media landscape and introduce them to the different traditions of media theory and research. Students will be invited to reflect on their own media experiences and then relate this discussion to the study of media theory. This unit aims to underscore the importance of theory as an indispensable part of media consumption and literacy. Learners will also be required to critically engage with concepts such as media effects, uses and gratification and reception theory. The unit also provides opportunities to understand constantly evolving media and advancing technologies and their ability to recast the way we think, communicate and live.
- 60 Contact Hours
On successful completion of this unit, a learner will:
- Give an account of the current media landscape across a range of traditional and digital media platforms.
- Be able to explain and illustrate a range of established theoretical perspectives on media studies.
- Demonstrate an understanding of contemporary concepts in the New Media Environment.
- Diploma in Media and Graphics
This Pearson and ACTT approved foundation programme is geared toward CXC/CSEC graduates as an alternative to CAPE, 6th Form or Level 3 study. It provides learners with the opportunity to pursue a combined, higher-level qualification in Media and Graphic Design as a pathway to undergraduate study.
Graduates of this foundation programme can progress directly to Pearson’s Higher National Diploma (HND) in Creative Media Production or Art and Design and upon successful completion be eligible for the final year of an honours degree in Mass Communications or Graphic Design from the University of Sunderland.