JOUR150C1

From accusations of fake news and biased reporting to sensationalism, trust in media has never been lower. But the importance of quality information sources has never been higher. This course will explore media from the perspective of the journalist, the news consumer and society as a whole. We will analyze how the news media as an influential institution shapes political, social and cultural conversations in society and acts as a check on government power. The course will provide a behind-the-scenes look at how journalists do their job and let you experience being a reporter first-hand. We will explore the sometimes-deadly clash between individual expression and government control, your rights under the First Amendment, and analyze why campus preachers can say hateful things but you can't shout \"fire\" in a crowded theater. Students who complete the course will understand the role media plays in a society and be able to navigate the complex world of fake news, filter bubbles and talking heads, becoming engaged and educated consumers of information.

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