Contemporary Social Issues in TV Series 4219-SD0039
This course offers an overview of TV shows that raise awareness on contemporary social issues in the United States, including mental health, class divisions, and race relations. First, students will learn about the history of TV shows so as to be familiar with evolving trends and practices. Next, students will gain knowledge of how to analyze TV shows in order to better understand this mode of storytelling. Finally, students will watch and discuss several contemporary TV shows. During this part of the course, students will prepare and deliver presentations on a TV show of their choice, focusing on current social issues.
Type of course
Learning outcomes
Upon completing this course a student:
Knowledge:
- has a basic knowledge of the history of American TV series;
- knows what contemporary social issues are addressed in selected TV series;
- knows selected contemporary American TV series;
- knows basic terminology connected with TV series;
Skills:
- is able to analyze TV series;
- has the ability to work in a group to deliver a group presentation;
- knows how to use online tools;
Social competences:
- is able to cooperate and work in a group;
- is able to formulate their opinion about the texts discussed in class;
- completes and improves their knowledge of American TV series.
Assessment criteria
- Active participation (20 points)
- Presentation (50 points)
- Written assignment (30 points)
Bibliography
Halfyard, Janet K. 2016. Sounds of Fear and Wonder : Music in Cult TV. Investigating Cult TV Series. London: I.B. Tauris. http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=e000xww&AN=1587431&site=ehost-live.
Lavigne, Carlen. 2014. Remake Television : Reboot, Re-Use, Recycle. Lanham: Lexington Books. http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=e000xww&AN=710115&site=ehost-live.
Marinescu, Valentina, Bianca Mitu, and Silvia Branea. 2014. Critical Reflections on Audience and Narrativity : New Connections, New Perspectives. Stuttgart, Germany: ibidem. http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=e000xww&AN=879829&site=ehost-live.
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: