SPC 212 - Survey of Mass Communication

Class: 3 Credits: 3
This course is a survey of the development of media and its influence upon society. Topics focus on newspapers, magazines, radio and television broadcasting, and film and their impact on American culture. Students will critique mass media using modern methodology.

Prerequisite(s): Take ENG 100 and RDG 100 with a minimum grade of “C”.

Course Topics:

Definition of Mass Media
Communication models
Media convergence
Mass communication theories
History of books
History of newspapers
History of magazines
History of the recording industry
History of radio
History of movies
History of television
History of digital media and the internet
Social media-pros and cons
Information consumption and critical thinking
Mass communication ethics

Textbooks:
Textbook information can be found on the Book Inn Web site

Grading System:
An overall grade of C or higher is required for transferability.

A 90 - 100
B 80 - 89
C 70 - 79
D 60 - 69
F 0 - 59

Student Learning Outcomes:

Define mass communications and be able to contrast mass media with other communication systems.
Explain the significance of major moments in communication and media history.
Analyze and discuss the factors involved in one’s own media usage, including the advantages and disadvantages of various media consumption.
Explain the relationship between media economics and content.

For SCC Online Courses:
If the course you are taking is online, please review the SCC Online Policies that include:

Required materials for all online courses
Mandatory Attendance Requirement
Proctored Exams

Face Covering Requirements:
All faculty, staff and students must wear a face mask/covering at all times (absent a medical condition) on all SCC campuses when safe social distancing measures are not possible or difficult to follow. For further details, refer to the Student Guidelines for Face Coverings and Social Distancing on the SCC Coronavirus COVID-19 Information page.

Standard SCC Course Policies:
Please review the Standard SCC Course Polices on the following topics:

Academic Integrity
Academic Misconduct
Add/Drop period
Appeals Process
Class Attendance
Classroom Behavior (traditional and online)
Classroom Conduct/Expectations
Lab Procedures (general SCC policy regarding this)
Online Confidentiality
Services For Students with Disabilities
Withdrawal Policy

Official Course Syllabus
2020-2021