Special Topics in Political Science (390-0-27)
Topic
Political Communication
Instructors
Erik C Nisbet
Meeting Info
Frances Searle Building 2370: Tues, Thurs 9:30AM - 10:50AM
Overview of class
This seminar focuses on the theory, practice, and problems of political communication designed for both communication majors and non-majors. This course will introduces you to a wide-range of processes and problems of mediated political communication, from elections, political advertising, and political news to political entertainment, humor, and social media, etc. primarily within a democratic context, specifically the United States. Furthermore, political communication is fabric that holds a participatory democracy together - and thus our examination of political communication is intrinsically tied to understanding the health of American democracy and how political communication contributes to it for better or worse. Lastly, whilst while many of the processes and patterns of political communication we discuss in this class are generalizable to the United States, they should not be taken to represent the global norm as unfortunately democracy, especially American-style democracy, is the exception not the rule across the globe.
Learning Objectives
Understand the actors and roles involved in American political communication.
Understand the production, form, and content of various media and channels of political communication and their effects.
Understand with whom, and how, political communication takes interpersonally and via social media
Understand how processes and outcomes of political communication are associated with the functions and problems of America's democratic political system
Because this course focuses on politics and communication, at times we will be discussing politically controversial issues, topics, or claims. Students in this class come from a variety of personal and academic backgrounds, so we all need to realize that they may look at these issues from different perspectives. Expect to disagree with what others say during class discussions. Debate is not just welcome, it is strongly encouraged. Your responsibility is to be civil to others and to opinions that differ from yours. Listening, questioning, and debate are encouraged; personal attacks are not. Consider the class as a forum to exchange ideas, not to go after fellow students. Bottom line - we should all strive to be open-minded and mature during class discussion.
Evaluation Method
Class Participation (10%)
Class Debate and Position Paper (30%)
Film/Readings Reflection Papers (40% - 8% each)
Final Exam (20%)
Extra Credit (maximum 3%)
Class Materials (Required)
There are no required texts. All readings, videos, and podcasts assigned are posted on Canvas under the class date and topic.