MASS COMMUNICATIONS 3020: Mass Communication Effects
Spring 2000
Dr. Michael Basil, office: MCOM #107, phone and voice mail 871-3984, fax: 871-4949, email: mbasil@du.edu

This class will review the scientific research which has examined the effects of mass communication on audiences. It is designed to expose you to the research that has been conducted and what we have learned. You should come away with a better understanding of when and how the mass media affect their audience. This information should make you a more informed citizen with a better understanding of the mass media.

We will start with an overview of the ways of knowing and the scientific method. Then we will move on to review the history of each new mass medium. We will focus on the most important studies in media effects. Our primary concern is how these studies have provided the basis for what we know about the effects of the media, how that knowledge can be applied, and how the research occurs in the context of the general society.

Objectives of course

  1. Knowledge of the history of the mass media
  2. Exposure to the idea of technological determinism and its alternatives
  3. An understanding of the scientific method and the role of research in our society
  4. Knowledge of several scientific studies of effects and information on how frequently and large effects are
  5. The ability to think more critically about the effects of the media
Grading will be based on: Texts: Assignments:

Schedule