ATS2440 · The public sphere

Overview

In this unit you will explore a key theoretical concept in the field of media and communications studies - the public sphere - and consider key questions in media studies: what does media contribute to the realm of rational debate and how does this contribution facilitate public understanding of, and input to, policy and governance? In addressing these questions we will raise important matters concerned with citizenship, the rise of political populism globally, individual response to public issues and the relationship between opinion and informed debate. You will track the emergence of the theory of the public sphere, analyse the multiple uses and related applications of the concept, and explain how the public sphere relates to traditional and new communications and media environments.

Areas of study: Communications and media studies Media

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Outline the emergence and historical development of the concept of a public sphere;
2. Research and analyse the role of the media in communicating politics in both formal and informal contexts;
3. Nominate and explain contemporary media developments or issues that reflect the condition of the public sphere and structure and inform understandings of that concept;
4. Display evidence of written and verbal knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.