General provisions

The syllabus was adopted by the Board of the Faculty of Languages on 2008-11-13.

Entry requirements

En B (specific entry requirements 2)

Requirements have been lowered in relation to the original specific entry requirements.

Learning outcomes

Upon completing the course students will

- be able to show knowledge of how today's US mass media society developed

- be able to give an account of what factors and interests have shaped the US mass media industry

- be able to show knowledge of how news reporting in the US has changed since the advent of television

- be able to analyse, in both spoken and written English, how the mass media depict US society today.

Content

The course illuminates media developments from a historical perspective and takes up the question of how various media, primarily television, convey knowledge about politics and social issues in today's US.

Instruction

Lectures and group instruction with use of DVD and VHS films.

Active participation in course seminars is obligatory. In cases of absence students will be given the opportunity to complete an extra assignment within the framework of the course period.

Assessment

Examination is done both orally and in writing and by continuous assessment. Grades used are either Fail, Pass, or Pass with Distinction.

Students who do not achieve a passing grade on the regular examination will have another opportunity to take the examination within a reasonable period of time after the regular examination.

Students who fail a certain examination twice have the right upon request, following consultation with the head of department, to have another examiner appointed.

Other directives

For admission to the course American studies B1 another 22.5 credits from American Studies A1 are required. The course cannot be counted toward a degree together with the course American Studies A1

If the syllabus or course reading for a component has been changed, students have a right to be examined under the original syllabus and course reading on two occasions during the following semester. Normally this right then expires. Otherwise there are no limitations on the number of examination opportunities.

Transitional provisions

For transitional regulations in the case of changes in the syllabus, please contact the student adviser.