JEM 522BJBatesBJBates202008-11-21T15:10:00Z2008-11-21T15:10:00Z16693815University of Tennessee318447611.0000JEM 522Seminar in Journalism Issues and TheoryFall 2008Professor:Benjamin J. Bates333 Communication Bldgbjbates@utk.eduCatalog descriptionDiscussion of the important issues in journalism from a variety of theoretical viewpoints. Study of the basic literature on theory involving journalism (Print, broadcasting, cable, and the Internet) and its application to current problems.What that means:In this seminar, we will discuss theory, and how theory can/should be used to help understand the changes/issues facing journalism and media. Over the first few meetings, I'll elicit a list of current issues and topics of interest to students. The required text will provide a foundation, and we'll add relevant readings and materials as the course evolves.Some sample issues:Trust, credibility, and changing news practicesThe evolving nature of journalism and news media - is there a future for "Mainstream Media"?Is diversity an issue: content, employment, etc.?Internationalizing journalism- trends and issues.Journalists and the law: libel, fairness, and copyright.Readings and MaterialsThere is a required text for this course, Rosenberry & Vicker's Applied Mass Communication Theory. We will use this as a foundational text for theories and perspectives. I will also add readings specific to various issues as they are identified, and students will also identify and suggest materials. Where possible, digital versions of materials will be made available through the Course Materials section of the Blackboard website. Other readings will be distributed in class, or placed on reserve in Hodges Library.Tentative Schedule(Check course site on Online@utk for updates and revisions)Weeks 1-3 - Introduction and the Role of Theory in Journalism and MediaWeeks 4-6? - Power and Bias in Journalism (Direct and Indirect Effects of Content)Weeks 7-10? - Structural and Social Effects of News MediaWeeks 11-12? - Digital Transformations (Economic and Technological Implications/New Media)Week 13 - Legal and Ethical IssuesWeek 14 - Paper PresentationsGradingAttendance/Discussion (20%)While I don't take attendance officially, this will be a small seminar class, and you are expected to attend when you can and join the discussion when you attend.Short Papers (50%)There will be a series of shorter papers throughout the class, in which you will give your thoughts on some topic/issue, or provide a review of some theory/approach and discuss that in class. These will be elaborated on in the Assignments area.Term Paper (30%)You will be expected to complete a term paper that critically examines some issue/topic from a theoretical perspective, or conducts research on an issue/topic and its implications. Details will be addressed in class. The term paper is due at the last class meeting.General Requirements and Notices:• All materials to be turned in for this class should be double-spaced, with normal font sizes and margins. If you're in doubt about what this means, ask.• Work should be turned in during class, or in my office mailbox. Work may also be turned in via email attachment or through the Digital Dropbox on the Blackboard course website. If you do, make sure that the file is in Microsoft Word format, in RTF format, or in Adobe PDF format. The instructor is not responsible for lost or corrupted files (i.e., it’s up to you to make sure I’ve gotten it). If you use the dropbox, it doesn't hurt to also send me an email that it's there. I will respond when I receive/download the paper.• While students are encouraged to study and work together, it is also expected that all work turned in will be original and individual-- plagiarism will not be tolerated. If you have any doubts as to what plagiarism is, consult your various handbooks and guides, or ask the instructor. • The instructor is willing to work with students with special needs, and make any necessary special arrangements possible to facilitate their learning experience in this class. However, those individuals will need to consult with the instructor about their needs as soon as possible. • No extensions will be given, and no make-ups will be offered. • The instructor is the final arbiter of excuses and their acceptability. • The instructor reserves the right to modify the course schedule and requirements. Any changes will be announced during class meetings, on the official class website and/or by e-mail.