Course Descriptions

COM 250: A survey of the print, broadcast, and film media in their relationship and influence on society. Study topics include mass communication theories, documentaries, commercialism, news media, media effects, and control, feedback, edicational broadcasting, and audience analysis. (Purdue University)

JOUR C200: Survey of functions, responsibilities and influence of various mass communication media. For nonmajors. directed toward the consumer and critic of mass media in modern society. (Indiana University)

Course Objectives
At the conclusion of the course, students will be able:

1. To define the functions of the mass media in the United States;
2. To describe the various mass media as technologies of communication;
3. To articulate the complexity of the media industrial practices; and
4. To apply critical methods to the study of mass communication industries.

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Texts

• The media and entertainment industries edited by Albert Greco
• Taking sides: Clashing views on controversial issues in Mass Media and Society, Seventh Edition edited by Alison Alexander and Jarice Hansen
  Click Here for Class Group/Issues Schedule

Students may also refer to glossaries of terms used in this course:

• Telecommunications Terms: Technology and Industry
• Media Communication Terms: Aesthetics and Criticism

Course Assignments
All assignment must be completed.

1. Quizzes: Short quizzes will be given on the first day of each new reading, usually on Monday. Quiz days are noted on the class schedule. The total grades from 10 quizzes will constitute the quiz grade.
   20 points each: Total: 200 points
2. Web Reports: Students will provide two (2) descriptions and evaluations of Web pages produced by mass communication organizations. One report must be about a non-profit organization.
   Due November 10
   100 points each. Total: 200 points.
3. Group Presentation: Groups will report on the current status of a media industry or a specific media controversy in Fort Wayne.
   Total: 200 points.
4. Midterm Essay (take home):
   Due October 10
   Total: 200 points
5. Final Essay: Take home. Total: 200 points.

Grading
The final grade will be based on the following scale:

Points	Grade
1000-890 points	A
889-790 points	B
789-700 points	C
699-600 points	D
599 points-below	F

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Course Policies

1. You are expected to attend class.
2. All assignments must be completed in order to earn a passing grade.
3. Class presentations are scheduled in advance. Failure to appear on a day when you are assigned to perform will result in a grade of "F" for that assignment (see above).
4. Grading:
5. No late assignments will be accepted. Due dates for assignments are stated on the syllabus.
6. All assignments should be typed or computer printed except by instructor's permission.

Campus Services

1. If you have or aquire a disability and would like to find out what special services may be available to you, contact Services for Students with Disabilities in WU 118 & 218 (481-6657, voice/TTY).
2. Writing Center:
   I encourage you to visit the IPFW Writing Center, Kettler G19, where writing consultants can help you understand assignments; brainstorm, develop and logically organize your ideas; learn strategies for wqrirting clearly; avoid plagiarism; and improve your documentation, editing, and proofreading skills. Bring your writing assignment for any class, questions, ideas, and a draft (if you have one). The service is free. Walk-ins arre welcome, but to ensure help when you need it, sign up for appointments on the board outside KT G19 or call 481-5740. Writing improvement happens over time, so visit regularly. Every writer needs a reader. Online at http://www.ipfw.edu/engl/wchome.htm .

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URL:http://users.ipfw.edu/tankel/syllabi/Fall2003/com250f03.htm
Revised: 18 August 2003