Media and the First Amendment

Media and the First Amendment
Advanced understanding of media law, policy, and regulation of free speech and press. Approaches may include Freedom of Information, rights of press, government control, and legal precedents regarding the First Amendment.
COMMS
406
 Hours3.0 Credit, 3.0 Lecture, 0.0 Lab
 PrerequisitesCOMMS 300; Major status.
 TaughtContact Department
 ProgramsContaining COMMS 406
Course Outcomes

Freedom of Speech and Social Issues

Students will gain increased appreciation of freedom of speech in the marketplace of ideas and apply this concept to current social issues.

Social Advocacy and Government Policy

Students will understand the importance of social advocacy in a democracy to reinforce the concept that both media and citizens have unique opportunities to influence the direction of both government policies and public opinion.

Critical Thinking

Students think critically about the relationship between mass media and society and articulate the positive and negative effects of mass media practices on society.

Consumer Communication Interaction

Students will become more professional by understanding the complex interaction between consumers (public opinion), the news media, the legal process, and lobbying by corporations, associations, and other advocacy groups.

Professional Communication Skills and Strategy

Students will learn to apply professional and strategic communications skills to social advocacy situations.