This course is an introduction to the study of various forms and themes found within Popular Culture Studies. It is aimed at the general student who wishes to learn about the history and development of various forms of popular culture. We shall examine how the popular media both reflects and influences American culture. This class will rely on a mix of lecture and discussion of the material we are reading. There will be extensive use of media to illustrate our class discussions.
Students are encouraged to actively participate in class discussions. The main emphasis of this course shall be to have students think critically and analytically about the issues raised in our class discussions and readings. The issues raised in this class are ones you will have to grapple with throughout your lives as citizens and mass media consumers. At the end of this course, you should have a keen grasp of the historical, cultural, and theoretical issues surrounding media scholarship.
Grading Scale
A: 93-100%
B: 85-92%
C: 75-84%
D: 65-74%
F: 0-64%
Participation: 30 points
Quizzes (3): 30 points
Midterm: 50 points
Essay Proposal: 20 points
T.A. Meeting: 20 points
Research Essay: 100 points
Final Exam: 100 points
TOTAL: 350 points