Propaganda, Public Relations and Journalism, 7.5 Credits

Contents

This course introduces the concepts of propaganda, persuasion, PR, fake news and discusses their relationship to journalism. Different types of dubious content are presented, and the possible societal consequences of mis- or disinformation are discussed.  

Expected learning outcomes

After completing the course the student should be able to:  
Knowledge and understanding:  

• explain, compare and discuss key concepts: propaganda, disinformation, public relations and journalism, and problematize the relationship between them

Skills and abilities:  

• identify different types of dubious content and reflect upon the possible societal consequences of mis- or disinformation

Judgement and approach:  

• demonstrate the ability to screen and critically review media content 
• individually and in groups summarize, discuss and present topic-relevant problems that are introduced during lectures, presentations and in texts

Required Knowledge

Form of instruction

The course is held in English. Teaching consists of lectures, seminars, group exercises, and individual work. When attendance at lectures or exercises is compulsory, that is, of the examining nature, it is specifically stated in the schedule. In case of absence on a compulsory occasion, supplementary information is provided by the teacher.  
 
For those who are registered on a course and have a disability, there are resources for special support. For more information contact the Student Center. Attendance at group work and participation in exercises of examining character is mandatory, and therefore adapted study pace cannot be applied.  

Examination modes

The module is examined continuously through assignments, participation in mandatory seminars, and individual exams. Group assignments and seminars are graded with Pass (Godkänd) or Fail (Underkänd). Individual essays (final exam) are graded with Pass with distinction (Väl godkänd), Pass (Godkänd) or Fail (Underkänd). To pass an individual 7,5 ECTS module (min. grade G (Pss)) all mandatory parts are required, and the individual essay(s) must have received the grade G. To receive Pass with distinction (VG) for a module, all mandatory parts are required (grade G), and the individual essay(s) must have received the grade VG. 

For each examining part of the course there is a regular examination given with a second reexamination within two months after the regular examination. For examinations performed in May and June, the first reexamination are offered within three months of the regular examination. In addition to this, a third reexamination is given within a year after the end of the course. Those who have passed the test may not undergo a re-test for higher grades.
 
A student who does not fully meet the objectives of an examination but is close to the limit for a passing grade can, after a decision by the examiner, be given the opportunity to supplement in order to achieve the examination assignment's criteria for a passing grade. Completion of the examination must be adapted individually based on the goal(s) not achieved by the student and must take place within two weeks after the students have been notified of the examination results, but before the next examination opportunity. It is only permitted to supplement an unsuccessful result to pass, supplementation for higher grades is not permitted.  

The examiner can decide on deviations from the syllabus' examination form. Individual adaptation of the examination form must be considered based on the student's needs. The examination form is adapted within the framework of the syllabus' expected study results. Students who need an adapted examination must request adaptation from the department responsible for the course no later than 10 days before the examination. The examiner decides on an adapted examination which is then communicated to the student. 

To pass the course, all exams and compulsory parts must be passed. The grade constitutes a summary assessment of the results in the various parts of the examination and is only set when all compulsory parts have been approved.

Students who are registered for a course and have registered credits in Ladok on the course have the right to be examined on the course and its parts up to two years after the first registration date. A student who, without a passing grade, has passed an ordinary examination and a re-examination for the course, has the right to have another examiner appointed at the next re-examination, unless there are special reasons to the contrary. Requests for a change of examiner are made to the director of studies at the Department of Culture and Media Studies. 

Transfer of credits 
The student who wishes to take advantage of education obtained at another department or university (Swedish / foreign) must do so in the order described in Tillgodoräknandeordning vid Umeå universitet (Dnr. 545-3317-02). 

 
The application for credit must be made in writing. The application must state which element or course the application refers to. Certified copies of course certificates or equivalent, stating the university, time, subject affiliation, level, points and grades must be attached. In addition, the syllabus, including bibliography for the courses referred to and, where applicable, essay work, must be attached. 

Other regulations

In a degree, this course may not be included together with another course with similar content. In case of uncertainty, the student should consult Director of Studies at the Department of Culture and Media Studies.