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MAC111Social Sciences3 Unitsbeginner

Introduction to Mass Communication

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of mass communication. It explores the nature, characteristics, and elements of communication, differentiating mass communication from other forms. The course covers various communication models, theories, and the functions of mass media in society. Students will also learn about verbal and non-verbal communication, interpersonal dynamics, and cross-cultural communication, alongside the different media channels and their impacts.

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30h
Study Time
13
Weeks
2h
Per Week
none
Math Level
Course Keywords
Mass CommunicationCommunication ModelsMedia EffectsPublic RelationsAdvertising

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Beginner Level
Perfect for newcomers to the field
35%
beginner
📚
Math Level
No Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Communication Concepts

2

Mass Communication

3

Communication Models

4

Media Theories

5

Verbal Communication

6

Non-Verbal Communication

7

Interpersonal Communication

8

Public Relations

9

Advertising

10

Media Effects

Total Topics10 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Computer Based Test

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Journalist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Public Relations Specialist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Advertising Executive

Apply your skills in this growing field

Media Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Communication Manager

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

MediaAdvertisingPublic RelationsMarketingGovernment

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1: Fundamentals of Communication

2h

Unit 1: Understanding the Concept of Communication and Mass Communication

2 study hours
  • •Define communication and mass communication.
  • •Identify the main features of communication.
  • •Explain the basic functions of mass communication.
  • •Distinguish mass communication from human communication.
Week
2

Module 1: Fundamentals of Communication

2h

Unit 2: Nature and Characteristics of Communication

2 study hours
  • •Discuss the inherent nature of communication.
  • •Highlight and discuss in great detail the characteristics of communication.
  • •Understand attributes of communication.
Week
3

Module 1: Fundamentals of Communication

2h

Unit 3: Elements of the Communication Process

2 study hours
  • •Identify and explain what it takes for good communication to take place.
  • •Identify and explain elements of the communication process.
  • •Determine various factors that influence the elements of the communication process.
Week
4

Module 1: Fundamentals of Communication

2h

Unit 4: Models of Communication

2 study hours
  • •Explain the various models used in understanding or interpreting the concept and process of communication.
  • •Apply such models to particular situations and issues surrounding the field of communication.
Week
5

Module 1: Fundamentals of Communication

2h

Unit 5: Theories of Mass Communication

2 study hours
  • •Understand theory.
  • •Understand Normative Theories.
  • •Understand Mass Society Theories (All-Powerful Media Effect).
  • •Understand Social Scientific Approach (Limited Effects Theories).
Week
6

Module 1: Fundamentals of Communication

2h

Unit 6: Functions of Mass Communication

2 study hours
  • •Mention and explain the roles of mass communication in the society.
  • •Discuss why the Press is so useful and important in every society.
  • •Identify the perceived negative roles mass communication play in the society.
Week
7

Module 2: Forms and Context of Communication

2h

Unit 1: Verbal Communication

2 study hours
  • •Understand what verbal communication is and what it is not.
  • •Understand the advantages and disadvantages of written communication.
  • •Understand the advantages and disadvantages of oral communication.
Week
8

Module 2: Forms and Context of Communication

2h

Unit 2: Non-Verbal Communication

2 study hours
  • •Understand the Characteristics and Functions of Non-Verbal Communication.
  • •Explain and identify types of Non-Verbal Communication.
  • •Understand the basic differences between Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication.
Week
9

Module 2: Forms and Context of Communication

2h

Unit 3: Intra and Interpersonal Communication

2 study hours
  • •Explain the concept of intrapersonal communication.
  • •Identify and describe the various kinds of interpersonal communication.
  • •Explain what the concept of interpersonal communication is and what it is not.
  • •Explain the place of relationship in interpersonal communication.
Week
10

Module 2: Forms and Context of Communication

2h

Unit 4: Group and Public Communication

2 study hours
  • •Give a vivid account of the concept of group communication.
  • •Identify the theories of group communication.
  • •Explain the concept of public communication.
Week
11

Module 2: Forms and Context of Communication

2h

Unit 5: Cross Culture/International Communication

2 study hours
  • •Discuss the concept of cultural communication.
  • •Explain the concept of international communication.
Week
12

Module 3: Media of Communication

2h

Unit 1: Print Media: Books, Newspaper, Magazine etc

2 study hours
  • •Explain in appreciable details the meaning and origin of books.
  • •Discuss the meaning and origin of newspapers.
  • •Discuss the meaning and origin of magazines.
Week
13

Module 3: Media of Communication

4h

Unit 2: Book Publishing

2 study hours
  • •Discuss the origin and concept of books.
  • •Explain the process of book publishing and its terminologies.
  • •Enumerate the steps in book publishing.

Unit 3: Broadcast Media: Television and Radio

2 study hours
  • •Discuss television as a broadcast medium.
  • •Discuss radio as broadcast medium.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review all key definitions and concepts from each unit.

2

Create summaries of the main communication models and theories.

3

Practice applying theories to real-world examples.

4

Focus on understanding the functions and effects of mass media.

5

Review all Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs) and their solutions.

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