Core Module Information
Module title: Media Theory and Analysis

SCQF level: 07:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10

Module code: JAC07120
Module leader: Pauline Miller Judd
School School of Arts and Creative Industries
Subject area group: Media and Humanities
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added

Description of module content:

This module introduces you to a wide range of theoretical debates that have accompanied the development of mass communications media. You will develop an awareness of the industrial structures of mass communications media and how they have been used to entertain, to persuade, to coerce, and to resist. You will learn how these media are theorised and analysed through the lenses of political theory, social theory, and media theory. You will also recognise the local, national, and global reach of mass communications media and learn how, in practice, they intersect. You will also evaluate how mass communications media help to shape and articulate our understandings of ourselves and the world.

Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Develop an awareness of the industrial structures of mass communications media.

LO2: Gain an appreciation of the relationship between media theory, analysis, and practice.

LO3: Identify key theoretical approaches used to explain and evaluate mass communications media.

LO4: Undertake foundational analyses of mass communications texts.

Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2025/6, Trimester 2, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Ariadne Xenou
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 10 Lectures introduce you to the theory and frameworks in understanding and analysing media industries and media texts.
Face To Face Tutorial 20 Tutorials offer the opportunity to discuss the theories and frameworks. You will work on group discussion as well as practical activities to enhance your understanding of the module material.
Online Guided independent study 170 You will undertake independent study building on materials covered in class. As well as developing your own knowledge of the topics, you might be set work to read or research between classes, or you may be working towards your summative assessments.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Portfolio 40 2~3~4 Week 13 , WORDS= 1200 words The portfolio will consist of six pieces of work (approximately 200 words each) set for you. These may be short analytical pieces of work, or written work that evidences your informed opinion about the topics studied.
Essay 60 1~2~3~4 Exam Period , WORDS= 2000 words You will be given a choice of essay questions based on the topics you study on the module. You will be supported in this assessment to develop your academic skills including writing and referencing.
Component 1 subtotal: 100
Component 2 subtotal: 0
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
JAC07120 Media Theory and Analysis