AMST40620 Journalism & International Aff

Academic Year 2022/2023

This module focuses on the roles of news media – print, broadcast and online - in the making and representation of international affairs. It will link news production and consumption to historical, economic, political and cultural contexts. It introduces students to critical debates on the political economy of international news media and the relationship between the media and state, IO and NGO actors, and the impact of news media on policy and public opinion. It will enable students to understand the basic elements of state systems and of international relations, including the role of diplomacy and international law, and matters of security, conflict and human rights. It will also underline the significance of satellite broadcasting and the internet for international affairs and global news flows. Students will be encouraged to make international comparisons across regions and cultures.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

Students will achieve an understanding of the structures and practices of international news media, the ways in which this media has shaped perceptions of international affairs and how it interacts with politics and policy. The module will also sharpen students’ critical awareness of current international affairs from a media perspective.

Indicative Module Content:

A range of case study events will focus analysis, including:

• “The first television war“ - Vietnam
• “CNN’s War” - The First Gulf War
• “Twitter Wars” - Syria
• “Caliphate” – reporting terrorism
• “Shadow Wars” – reporting cyberwarfare

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

24
Autonomous Student Learning

176
Total

200
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
The module is seminar focused, with students preparing for discussions based on syllabus readings. Each student will present a commentary on a relevant topic of their choice in one of the classes. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Essay: 4,000 word essay on a relevant topic. Coursework (End of Trimester) n/a Graded No

75
Presentation: Presentation on selected course topic Varies over the Trimester n/a Graded No

25

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring No
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, on an activity or draft prior to summative assessment
• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Students will be offered feedback on draft materials and post-assessment.