COMM 1030 - Introduction to Electronic Media

3 sem hrs cr

This course is an introduction to the history, special aspects, organization, structure, and function of electronic media. It is a basic introduction to broadcast operations.

Formerly/Same As (Formerly COM 1130)

Transfer (UT) or Non-Transfer Course (UN): UT

Throughout the course, students will have the opportunity to study/experience freedom of expression, history and roles of electronic media, diversity of media audiences, technology, and ethics in media practice. It also will teach students to present information and images well, think creatively and analytically, research by rigorous methods, write clearly and accurately, evaluate content quality, and process information using technology. (Students will need to watch the local news and be active on Facebook, Twitter and other online platforms.)

The student will…

• learn the principles of broadcast writing, news values, and organization by developing a recorded newscast.
• learn how to write broadcast stories by completing a variety of exercises.
• write a timed broadcast story for radio and television.
• evaluate “real” local newscasts on Channels 2, 4, 5, and 17 to gain a better understanding of how these programs are developed for broadcast.
• familiarize themselves with broadcast media technology through independent and group study.
• experience a “real” broadcast by observing a live radio show by a local radio station crew.
• read, study, and participate in class discussions and explorations of radio, television, and the internet.
• research electronic media and write analyses.
• demonstrate an understanding of textbook material through readings, discussion, out-of-class assignments, classroom activities, and major examinations or special projects.
• take current events quizzes to evaluate his/her understanding of the history, technology, business, and rules/regulations of the broadcast media.
• complete various activities (i.e. evaluation of Internet content and hands-on application) in conjunction with each topic of study.

Course Activities

We will immerse ourselves in a variety of activities, including, but not limited to…

• broadcast news writing.
• core news values.
• AP and broadcast styles.
• people and places in news of the region, nation, and world.
• evaluating local newscasts.
• exercises, discussions, quizzes, and group breakouts.
• textbook readings.
• videos.
• special projects, including writing a broadcast news story and developing a recorded newscast.

Student Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to…

• obtain basic introductory writing, interviewing, and editing skills for broadcast media.
• understand the relative newsworthiness of events and facts.
• learn how broadcast news stories and programs are put together.
• examine the ethics of broadcast journalism in today’s culture.
• gain an understanding of electronic media through readings, video viewings, lectures, and discussions.
• discover how to write and edit for various broadcast media platforms.
• prepare for real jobs through hands-on, experiential (HIPS) learning.
• prepare for continued study at a four-year college or university.