Media, Ethics & Social Justice - MSTU5007

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Module delivery information

Location Term Level1 Credits (ECTS)2 Current Convenor3 2026 to 2027
Canterbury
Summer Term 5 20 (10) Ben Cocking checkmark-circle

Overview

What are the moral responsibilities of digital content creators and social media platforms? Can commercial success and social justice go hand in hand? Developing the skills to critically reflect on these and other questions is crucial for aspiring media practitioners and industry professionals. In this module, you will investigate some of the most pressing ethical issues in contemporary media culture. You will study theoretical frameworks to critically examine a diverse range of media, and you will learn to articulate your own critical perspectives in creative ways. This module gives you the tools to engage in a range of ethical debates and evaluate media as a tool of social justice – and apply these critical thinking skills in your own practice as a digital content producer.

Details

Contact hours

LecSem: 16 hours
Workshop: 16 hours

Availability

Autumn

Method of assessment

Digital Portfolio
Assessment Details: Series of practical tasks (2000 words or equivalent). Worth 50%.

5 minutes AV Essay
Assessment Details: AV essay (5 minutes). Worth 50%.

Reassessment Method:
Like-for-like

Indicative reading

The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices. The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages. https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html

Learning outcomes

On successfully completing the module, students will be able to: 
1) Engage in a range of critical debates surrounding media culture and consumption.
2) Identify some of the key moral issues and ethical dimensions of contemporary media practices.
3) Examine the moral, social and cultural impact of mediation on social movements and activities aiming for social change.
4) Analyse digital media as a tool of social justice and activism.
5) Reflect upon their own role and responsibilities in relation to ethical media practices.

Notes

  1. Credit level 5. Intermediate level module usually taken in Stage 2 of an undergraduate degree.
  2. ECTS credits are recognised throughout the EU and allow you to transfer credit easily from one university to another.
  3. The named convenor is the convenor for the current academic session.
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