Science, Media and Journalism

HSTM60602 Science, Media and Journalism 15 Semester 2 Postgraduate Taught Level 7 Elizabeth Toon Unit coordinator Harriet Palfreyman Unit coordinator 1 FHEQ level (Framework for Higher Education Qualifications) ' Masters/Integrated Masters P4 ' European Credit Transfer & Accumulation System Rating : 7.5 This module considers the relationship between science, media, and journalism, in theory and in practice. We approach this through three general themes, in sessions that include mini-lectures, seminar discussion, and small-group and large group activities. Many weeks we will be joined by practitioners and others to help us better understand the issues involved in this field. <ul> <li> Theme 1: News media and science and health journalism: We will explore the nature of science journalism (magazines, popular science books, newspapers) both in traditional print and through the many routes now available for online publishing. Issues we will consider include: the basics of news writing, the roles of the journalist, the types of science covered, production practices and news values, the constraints on journalists, the ethics of news, the interactions between scientists and journalists, the types of stories chosen, and the structure of science news stories.</li> <li> Theme 2: Non-fiction storytelling about science and health: We will discuss broadcast media including radio, television, documentaries, and natural history films as well as the many digital forms of audio-visual material including podcasts and online videos. We will explore the nature of production practices for each of these media including the unique issues that arise when dealing with the topic of science and how broadcasts meet the needs of entertainment and education. What messages do broadcast media products send about science? What decisions go into the construction of these products?</li> <li> Theme 3: Fictional storytelling around science and health: We will explore the various ways in which science is communicated through fictional media. How is science used to tell stories, and how can we use stories to communicate about science? Issues we will consider include the role of scientific authenticity and the fact/fiction boundary. In addition, we will explore the many constraints that entertainment media producers face when incorporating science into their texts including audience expectations, aesthetic requirements, budget, dramatic needs, technical limitations and narrative necessity.</li> </ul> This module considers the relationship between science, media, and journalism, in theory and in practice. We approach this through three general themes, in sessions that include mini-lectures, seminar discussion, and small-group and large group activities. Many weeks we will be joined by practitioners and others to help us better understand the issues involved in this field.<ul> <li>Theme 1: News media and science and health journalism: We will explore the nature of science journalism (magazines, popular science books, newspapers) both in traditional print and through the many routes now available for online publishing. Issues we will consider include: the basics of news writing, the roles of the journalist, the types of science covered, production practices and news values, the constraints on journalists, the ethics of news, the interactions between scientists and journalists, the types of stories chosen, and the structure of science news stories.</li> <li>Theme 2: Non-fiction storytelling about science and health: We will discuss broadcast media including radio, television, documentaries, and natural history films as well as the many digital forms of audio-visual material including podcasts and online videos. We will explore the nature of production practices for each of these media including the unique issues that arise when dealing with the topic of science and how broadcasts meet the needs of entertainment and education. What messages do broadcast media products send about science? What decisions go into the construction of these products?</li> <li>Theme 3: Fictional storytelling around science and health: We will explore the various ways in which science is communicated through fictional media. How is science used to tell stories, and how can we use stories to communicate about science? Issues we will consider include the role of scientific authenticity and the fact/fiction boundary. In addition, we will explore the many constraints that entertainment media producers face when incorporating science into their texts including audience expectations, aesthetic requirements, budget, dramatic needs, technical limitations and narrative necessity.</li></ul> This unit aims to give students a better understanding of how science and medicine are presented in and understood through mass media. We consider this from a critical as well as a practical perspective, and aim to:<ul> <li>develop students' understanding of the history of science and medicine in the media</li> <li>enhance students' critical engagement with contemporary science and medicine in the media</li> <li>identify and illuminate particular roles, genres, and forms in UK and international media discourse around science and medicine</li> <li>enhance students' understanding of media institutions, conventions, and processes</li> <li>develop students' skills in devising and evaluating proposed media products</li></ul> 0 Other 100% The assessment for this unit comprises two essays, each worth 50% of the overall mark. The first is an analysis of an issue in contemporary science and health journalism. The second asks students to propose and provide sample material from a media product such as a feature article, a television or radio broadcast, etc. Formative assessment offered on a draft; summative assessment on Blackboard and, if appropriate, in face-to-face discussion with the course tutor. Y 0 0 150