Universitat Internacional de Catalunya
Communication Theory
Teaching staff
In order to make an appointment, please email the professor
Introduction
The intellectual discourses, theoretical models or research methodologies that have accompanied the history of the emergence and development of different forms of media can not be summarised in one major and complex theory, niether in a single definition of communication. Given this evidence, in this subject we will defend the opportunity of going on an introductory journey through a selection of theories that have made consistent academic contributions on the media world. Through guided self-learning, the student will critically analyse the main theoretical and methodological forms that have served as a compass for dialogue and discussion what Communication Theory is about.
Pre-course requirements
No pre-course requirements are needed to enrol in this subject.
Objectives
- The objective of this subject is to help students become aware of the broad field of theoretical and methodological thinking regarding the media.
- The historical presentation and the compared theming in which this subject is based, intends to endow the student with analytical tools to critically comment on the various dimensions of the current dynamics of the digital communication ecosystem.
- In turn, this subject aims to awaken the students' interest for intellectual work and their enthusiasm for making them capable of developing their own analytical and critical thinking.
Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme
- 19 - The ability to memorise
- 81 - Ability and capacity to perform the duties carried out by the media department
- 82 - The ability to define and manage a communication budget
- 83 - The ability and capacity to give form to a creative message
- 98 - To skillfully manage terminology in English related to Communication
Learning outcomes of the subject
The studients:
- Manage the various theories that attempt to explain the operation of the communication process in all its dimensions (sender, message, channel, receiver, use, effect, etc..)
- Understand the theoretical and practical development of the advertising phenomenon and public relations.
- Approach the theoretical framework and practical assumptions messages, media and subjects.
- Reflect on the proper conduct of advertising and public relations criteria of good craftsmanship.
Syllabus
SECTION 1: COMMUNICATION THEORY: FOUNDATIONS AND EVOLUTION
Unit 1: Communication. Elements. Classic structure of communication.
Unit 2: Evolution of mass communication. From propaganda to the creation of
frames of thought.
Unit 3: New approaches. The spiral of silence. Cascade of conformity.
Horizontal communication vs vertical communication. New communication structures.
Unit 4: The formation of public opinion and communication. Communication biases and processing in a world with preconceptions.
Unit 5: Communication beyond content. Information sources beyond media. Communication channels and their effects on public opinion. Heuristics and
other ways to reason efficiently. Framing and changing public opinion.
Unit 6: Misinformation and the ability of information to generate knowledge.
SECTION 2: DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND PRODUCTION OF A RESEARCH COMMUNICATION
Designing a communication research.
Focus and justification of the issues and research questions.
Methodologies for communication research.
The analysis of empirical data.
Presentation of the results of research in communication.
Teaching and learning activities
In blended
| TRAINING ACTIVITY | ECTS CREDITS |
|---|---|
| Lectures. In lectures, lecturers/professors not only transmit content or knowledge, but also, and above all else, attitudes, motivation, skills and values, etc. They also ensure that participants can express their opinions and arguments to the other students. | 2.6 |
| Seminar. This activity will consist of taking an in-depth look at specific up-to-date topics in a monographic manner-in some cases these topics will have been debated socially-, via active work in small groups. | 1.4 |
| Practical workshop. A highly practical working activity, where students can acquire skills that are practical or also theoretical (intellectual skills, logical skills, critical skills, intellectual learning skills, study skills, quoting skills, etc). | 1.4 |
| Coaching. Monitoring how students learn the content of the subject, either individually or in groups. In the coaching sessions, mistakes will be corrected, queries answered, and exercises and activities to achieve the established objectives will be suggested. | 0.6 |
Evaluation systems and criteria
In blended
- Theoretical exam 60% (Friday 6 November)
- Research Project 40%
* To pass the course you must present the two parts.
** The spelling rules of the Faculty shall apply to all tests and assignments.
*** To pass the second call is necessary to accomplish all assessment activities not approved in the first call.
Bibliography and resources
Baran, S. J. & Davis, D. K. (2011). Mass Communication Theory. Foundations, Ferment, and Future. Wadsworth.
Noelle-Neumann, E. (1995). La espiral del silencio. Opinión pública: nuestra piel social. Barcelona: Paidós.
Scheufele, D. y Moy, P. (2000). Twenty-five years of the spiral of silence: A conceptual review and empirical outlook. International Journal of Public Opinion Research, 12 (1), 3-28.