Description
This course examines theories and research that inform conclusions about the effects of political communication on public opinion and political behavior. The course will emphasize psychological theories of information processing and media effects at the individual level such as learning and political knowledge, persuasion and attitude change, cognitions and emotions, and political behavior. The course introduces and explores classic and current theories and concepts, reviews important research, and looks at classic and new methods used in media effects research. By becoming familiar with theories and methods of media effects research, students will have the tools to develop their own research questions and to propose research designs that can answer them. Students are expected to attend all seminar meetings, actively engage in class discussions, give a short presentation, and complete several short assignments.
Course Objectives
Objective: 1. The course introduces students to classic and current theories and research on the effects of political communication on political attitudes and behavior.
Objective: 2. The course helps students to develop skills to review and evaluate existing research and to design their own research on the topic.
Mode of Instruction
Short lectures, discussion, student presentations
Study Material
Journal articles and book chapters, announced on Blackboard
Assessment Method
Assignments, presentations, and class participation
Registration
See preliminary info
This course is earmarked for the specialisations IP and PPD