Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - CMNS 410 D100

Media and Ideology (4)

Class Number: 1128

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2024: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Vancouver

    Oct 15, 2024: Tue, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Vancouver

  • Prerequisites:

    26 CMNS units with a minimum grade of C- or 60 units with a minimum CGPA of 2.00.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An advanced seminar which explores intersections between communications, media studies and social theory through an in-depth history of the concept of ideology.

COURSE DETAILS:

Media and Ideology explores positions and developments in the theory of ideology as they relate to the critical investigation of communications media, technologies and social relations. Students are introduced to major theoretical and methodological contributions, which are situated in their social and historical contexts – from the study of fascist propaganda to the role of media in anti-colonial movements, from racialised policies of criminalisation to the consequences of the logistical revolution. Particular emphasis is placed throughout not just on how theories of ideology illuminate communications, but on how the materiality of media has in turn shaped our very concept of ideology.

Course Organization:

Students are expected to seriously engage with course content as emerging scholars and soon-to-be degree holders. Seminars will run for about an hour. There will subsequently be an hour-long discussion-forum hosted by the instructor, in which students will participate by working co-operatively to understand and unpack issues arising from the readings.

Grading

  • Attendance/Participation (Ongoing) 5%
  • Weekly Questions (Ongoing): (10 x 2.5%) 25%
  • Seminar Leadership (Ongoing) One per student per semester, beginning in week 4; OR 8-10 page essay (due in Week 7) 30%
  • Final Essay, 12–15 pages (due in Week 13) 40%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Readings available through Canvas.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.