Sociological Perspectives on Mass Media

Abstract

This resource synthesizes sociological insights and media literacy information (Ferris and Stein 2018; MediaSmarts N.d.) to create a "unit" on mass media comprised of three activities. The activities encourage students to build a sociological understanding of mass media by helping them to think critically about media from multiple perspectives: media as...

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Details

Subject Area(s):

Introduction to Sociology/Social Problems

Resource Type(s):

Class Activity

Class Level(s):

College 200

Class Size(s):

Any

Usage Notes

See attached usage notes document.

Learning Goals and Assessments

Learning Goal(s):

1. Students will identify media products as social constructions.
2. Students will summarize visual data on media concentration and apply these data to critique freedom of the press.
3. Students will demonstrate how media products can have varying interpretations and socializing influences.

Goal Assessment(s):

1. Show of hands concerning recognition of media as a social construct; small- and large-group discussion about the implications of media being socially constructed.
2. Completion of the media consolidation handout and participation in small- and large-group discussion about this handout.
3. Small- and large-group discussion about the varying interpretations and socializing influences of a film clip.