Module Identifier MC10020  
Module Title MEDIATED COMMUNICATION  
Academic Year 2002/2003  
Co-ordinator Dr Daniel G J Chandler  
Semester Semester 1  
Course delivery Other   20 Hours Workshops  
Assessment Semester Assessment   Assignment 1 2000-word assignment   50%  
  Semester Assessment   Assignment 2 2000-word assignment   50%  

Learning outcomes

Typically, upon completion of this module, a student will be able to:

understand the limitations of transmission models of communication;
show an awareness of key factors in human communication;
identify key features of different media of interpersonal communication;
demonstrate the limitations of technological determinism.

Content

This is a compulsory introductory module for a new MCS degree. The first major theme is an exploration of the nature of communication. We explore, for instance, the limitations of the commonsense 'transmission' model of communication as the simple sending of messages to receivers. We also discuss some of the key media used in interpersonal communication, including various forms of online communication.

The second main theme of this module concerns broad theories about the influence of communications tools and media (such as writing, print, television and computers) on their users. The widespread stance of 'technological determinism' sees changes in communications technologies and media as having profound consequences for the individual and for society. This viewpoint is deconstructed and illustrated with a critique of the ideas of Marshall McLuhan, who coined the well-known aphorism, 'the medium is the message'. This theme raises the question: to what extent are we shaped by our use of what we typically think of a 'neutral' tools and media? Historical case-studies of communications media serve to emphasize the importance of the social context of media use.

Reading Lists

Books
** Essential Reading
DeFleur, Melvin L. & Snadra Ball-Rokeach. (1989) Theories of Mass Communication (5th edition). White Plains, NY: Longman
Fiske, John. (1990) Introduction to Communication Studies. London: Routledge
McQuail, Denis. (1990) Mass Communication Theory. London: Sage
O'Sullivan, Tim, John Hartley, Danny Saunders & John Fiske. (1994) Key Concepts in Communication and Cultural Studies. London: Routledge
Winston, Brian. Media, Technology and Society: A History. London: Routledge
Anderson, James A. & Timothy P. Meyer. (1988) Mediated Communication. Newbury Park CA: Sage
Chandler, Daniel. (2001) Semiotics: The Basics. London: Routledge
Crowley, David & Paul Heyer (Eds.). (1995) Communication in History: Technology, Culture, Society (2nd edition). White Plains, NY: Longman