COMM418-012
Department
of Communication
Spring, 2002
Professor
Ralph J. Begleiter
Syllabus
Readings
Course Description
Speakers
& Resources
Policies
Grading
Contact
Begleiter
The Lighter Side
Crisis News COMM 418
Introduction
How - and why - do today's news media careen from crisis to crisis in a world where judgments must be made every day about the relative "news value" of famines, massacres, civil wars, celebrity tragedies and natural disasters? Who makes the judgments? Are news consumers consulted? (Should they be?) Have some conflicts become too complex for today's news environment?
We'll focus on international affairs news, including coverage of the terrorism attacks of 2001 and their aftermath, but with occasional reflections on domestic "crises." This class will explore the real world of broadcast news and how it's being affected by political, business and cultural trends. But we'll also study some of the ethical and historical underpinnings of contemporary broadcast journalism to see if they're still being used.
Writing is highly valued in this class. There will be one final take-home exam. Numerous writing assignments are required, which will largely determine your grade.
We may have several guest speakers and an optional field trip is possible (details TBD).
Classes
Classes will consist primarily of lectures and discussion, with frequent video and multimedia presentations. Questions are very much encouraged. Discussions will draw from class presentations, reading assignments, videos, and class assignments.
Just as in the communication field, independent, analytical and critical thinking is highly valued. So your contribution to class discussion will be reflected in your final grade.
You'll be expected to attend class; it's hard to imagine how learning can take place without your attendance and active participation. Unexcused absences may result in the lowering of your grade.
When guest speakers visit our class, you should consider these opportunities to ask questions and engage in lively dialog.