Stuart Hall's theory of representation argues that within a media text, there will oftentimes not be a true representation of events, people, places, or history. Do not fight the media, be the media Timothy Leary 1968

midterm study guide: According to Chapter 2 Research Theory, what is the primary goal of media research in mass communication studies? What is content analysis as discussed in the chapter? what is the “hypodermic needle” or “magic bullet” model what are some moderating media effects on audiences? What does the cultivation theory say about heavy television viewing: What does the gratifications theory say about audiences. What does Edward Said claim in his essay Orientalism? What is Persepolis about, who wrote it and what are your take outs

What did we learn about Eurovision and the representation of EU countries? Give an example of transportation and identification How does cognitive load theory complicate the assumption that contemporary audiences are “efficient multitaskers”? Critically evaluate how divided attention in digital environments (e.g., second-screening, social media scrolling) affects meaning-making, memory consolidation, and persuasion To what extent do modality differences (print vs. audiovisual vs. interactive digital media) shape depth of processing and long-term recall? Discuss how dual-coding, redundancy, and visual superiority effects challenge simplistic assumptions about “video as superior learning. How does narrative transportation alter critical distance and reduce counterarguing? Compare transportation theory with traditional persuasion models (e.g., central vs. peripheral processing) and assess its relevance in the era of streaming series and immersive media. Evaluate the psychological mechanisms that lead audiences to treat mediated representations as social reality. How do agenda-setting, social realism, and source monitoring errors contribute to the blurring of fiction and fact in contemporary political communication? In what ways do parasocial relationships simulate real social bonds at a cognitive and emotional level? Critically analyze their role in influencer culture and algorithmically curated celebrity intimacy. Where should we draw the line between healthy identification and maladaptive attachment? How does the third-person effect undermine effective media literacy interventions? Discuss the psychological barriers that prevent individuals from recognizing media influence on themselves while acknowledging it in others.

Lucie Lomova 16.15-17.45

Midterm written on paper in class 20 short answers to questions from readings and about watched films