Mid-term Exam #1
Wednesday, Oct. 17, during class time
multiple choice questions
short answer questions
______
Students must bring a purple “Mark Sense”
scan-tron form to the exam and #2 pencil
These can be purchased at
Bookstore on U Ave. or By George cafe
Study Guide for COM 201 Mid-term Exam #1
(Exam: Wednesday, Oct. 17)
Definitions of communication
• How mass mediated communication differs from face-to-face interpersonal & mediated interpersonal communication
• Definitions of transmission and constructionistreasons for communication
The role of mass media in society
• What distinguishes an “arena” in a cultural system
• Common philosophies of U.S. media arena institutions and people
“Media effects” perspective of the role of mass media in society
• Contextual factors influencing initial research on mass communication
• Why mass media are important according to this perspective
• Understand how key studies shaped evolution of thinking (e.g., “magic bullet,” “opinion leaders”)
“Cultural studies” perspective of the role of mass media in society
• Primary interests of BirminghamSchool of communication scholars
• Why mass media are important according to this perspective
• Individuals’ ability to “resist” media messages — what are key factors?
“Critical theory” perspective of the role of mass media in society
• Origins of this perspective
• Why mass media, particularly commercial media, are important according to this perspective
“Medium theory” perspective of the role of mass media in society
• Origins of this perspective
• Why mass media are important according to this perspective
• Understand key shifts in communication forms and how shifts shaped people’s social relations
Historical evolution of First Amendment
• Licensing restrictions by Crown in England in 1500s
• Ideas of Milton, Locke and Puritans
• Core ideas of Libertarian theory of society
Race, gender, and news media
• Ownership patterns
• Newsroom employees (journalists)
• News coverage
News values
• The notion of “objectivity” — its development in journalism, its definition, and how it may hurt the journalism profession’s reputation
• The values of journalists that shape news coverage
Traditional and online influences on journalism
• Definitions of “news holes,” how deadlines are influential, how 24-hour news cycle works
• The three mechanisms of blog influences on news
For the readings, you will need to know the central argument(s) of each author. That’s it, plain and simple. You will not be asked to know minor details. Just the central arguments of each author. Each readings question will include the title of the reading and the author’s name.
Test Taking Tips for COM 201 Exams
1. Use the study guides and practice exams.
2. Read each question on the exam carefully. There are no “trick” questions, but you must know the key concepts in depth. A superficial understanding of content will not be adequate for the exams.
3. Know the key terminology used in class and in the readings.
4. The only names and dates that you need to know are the names and dates that were included on the key concept overheads.