Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2026 - CMNS 130 OL01

Communication and Social Change (3)

Class Number: 3620

Delivery Method: Online

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Online

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the forms, theories and institutions of communication as they relate to broader social change, with a focus on the political, economic and regulatory shifts characterizing Canadian and transnational media systems. This course is required for a major, honours or minor in communication.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course offers an introduction to the forms, theories and institutions of communication as they relate to social change. The course introduces key theories, institutions, and regulatory frameworks that structure media and influence social change globally. We study the historical development of mass communication from the broadcast to digital eras, along with debates foundational to this historic shift, especially the freedom of speech.

The course anchors each week in a pivotal whistle-blowing event from modern history. Students will study actual leaked documents, along laws, policies, and regulations related to the whistle-blowing moment. Drawn from a variety of global contexts, these case studies serve as focal points for analysing how communication practices can expose injustice, challenge institutional authority, and influence social change.

Media infrastructures do not simply reflect society. They actively shape it. By studying key forms, theories and institutions of communication with historically important whistle-blowing events, the course invites students examine how information influences social change.

Format:

CMNS 130 will be delivered remotely in an asynchronous format.  Every week, a new recorded lecture will be uploaded onto Canvas.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • To introduce some of the key concepts, theoretical approaches and political perspectives used in the study of mass communication.
  • To provide a foundation for a number of second-year communication courses in the School of Communication.
  • To consider the role played by mass communication within broader social change.
  • To develop the capacity to critically assess, and intervene within, the mass media environment.

Grading

  • Reflection Questions 20%
  • Mid-Term Exam #1 20%
  • Mid-Term Exam #2 20%
  • Final Exam (cumulative) 40%

NOTES:

The School expects that the grades awarded in this course will bear some reasonable relation to established university-wide practices with respect to both mpu levels and distribution of grades. In addition, the School will follow Policy S10.01 with respect to Academic Integrity, and Policies S10.02, S10.03 and S10.04 as regards Student Discipline. For further information see: www.sfu.ca/policies/Students/index.html

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Note on Technology:

Your enrollment in this course means you acknowledge that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.  To ensure you can access all course materials, we recommend you have access to a computer with a microphone and camera, and the Internet.  In some cases, your instructor may use Zoom or other means requiring a camera and microphone to invigilate exams.  Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112).

REQUIRED READING:

Readings will be available digitally on 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

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


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.