The course will introduce the students to the meaning of communication, elements of communication
process and types of communication. They will learn to classify mass media into: print and electronic
media. The print media are: newspapers, magazines and books while electronic media include: radio,
television, film, video games, the internet and the world-wide-web. The various characteristics of mass
media and functions/roles of mass communication in the society will also be outlined. Other aspects of
mass media to be treated include: patterns of media ownership, media content and message patterns,
media theories and media effects: principles and theories, media freedom, regulation and ethical
issues, and global media and its effects on human existence. The course will end with the survey of
mass media and their adjuncts: public relations and advertising.
- Lecturer: Christian Odoemelam