This module adopts an interdisciplinary approach to exploring social movements as active actors in society and the media environment. It gives students an understanding of communications strategies, the organisational capabilities and ideological function of movements. Students are introduced to what social movements are and how to research them, how protest events are reported on in the mainstream media, how movements (both left and right) use digital media and offline tactics to communicate with the public and with the media, and what role movements have in democratic processes, such as elections. Students will gain a theoretical understanding of the role of movements in the twenty-first century and practical skills on how to research them. The module also offers transferrable skills around communications practices in the third and civil society sector.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Demonstrate understanding of a range of different theoretical approaches to analysing the intersection of digital media, social justice and society
Develop conceptually grounded accounts of the role of social movements' communication practices in modern society, including the use of digital technology to disseminate messages
Demonstrate an ability to synthesise materials from a range of disciplinary fields and primary and secondary resources
Demonstrate understanding of research skills applicable to communications and media industries.
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment:
4,000-word written essay (100%) or Individual 15-minute media production artefact (e.g. video essay or podcast) (100%)
Reassessment:
4,000-word written essay (100%) or 15-minute media production artefact (e.g. video essay or podcast) (100%)