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Topic outline

  • Unit 5: Mass Communication

    In this unit, you will explore the concept and theories of mass communication. This unit will explore the application of mass communication and the impact of mass communication on human communication and behavior. Mass communication and mass media have a great influence on our daily behavior and our relationship communications. We develop our understanding of other people by the media reports and entertainment programs we watch. In this way, the mass media have an affect on our potential relationships with other people – those like us and those different from us. This course focuses on human communication specifically, understanding mass communication is an interesting artifact of our global society that affects all human communication. Additionally, a number of mass communication applications are used by organizations to communicate to their members as well as constituencies outside their organizations.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 3 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • identify the characteristics of mass media and mass communication;
      • identify the effects of mass communication on human communication;
      • explain a number of different mass communication theories; and
      • list ethical concerns regarding mass communication.
    • 5.1: Mass Communication and the Media

      • Read Chapter 8, which discusses mass communication, its evolution, functions, and theories that explain how it has affected communication. After you read, complete the discussion questions and write definitions for the key terms listed at the end of the chapter.

    • 5.2: Media Literacy

      • As mass media and social media continue to influence our daily interactions, it is important to understand how the media construct messages that influence our perceptions of others and the world around us. Read this short article about the eight key concepts of media literacy.
    • 5.3: Applications of Mass Communication and Human Communication

    • Unit 5 Assessment

      • Take this assessment to see how well you understood this unit.

        • This assessment does not count towards your grade. It is just for practice!
        • You will see the correct answers when you submit your answers. Use this to help you study for the final exam!
        • You can take this assessment as many times as you want, whenever you want.