This module is not currently running in 2026 to 2027.
Indicative topics are:
The changing patterns of foreign news coverage in the post war period, with particular reference to the developing world (colonial, cold war and 1990s)
Case studies of foreign disasters and the media interpretation; Biafra, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Asian Tsunami.
The role of citizen journalism in the coverage of faraway disasters
The media understanding of types of disaster and complex emergencies, with reference to aid efforts and humanitarian intervention.
The growth and emergence of NGOs, their use of marketing and communication techniques
The role of the media in raising awareness for charitable fundraising.
24 hour news and the CNN effect
Total contact hours: 32
40% Presentation
60% Essay (3,000 words)
Reassessment Methods -Like for like
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate comprehensive familiarity with the influence of broadcast media in the political sphere and on the voluntary sector
2. Critically assess the impact of the internet on media power and media consumption.
3. Demonstrate acquired knowledge of the central role that communications and media play at national, international and global levels of economic, political and social organisations along with the ability to articulate and explore the implications of this.
4. Demonstrate critical awareness of the diversity of approaches to understanding communication and media in historical and contemporary contexts.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Consider alternate views and exercise a degree of independent and informed critical judgement in analysis
2. Engage with forms of critical analysis, argument and debate expressed through an appropriate command of oral and/or written communication
3. Manage independent learning and to make use of scholarly reviews and primary sources
4. Devise and sustain arguments and solve problems using ideas and techniques, including those at the forefront of the discipline.
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