Media Effects

This course explores the major theories that undergird media effects research in mass communication. We discuss the debates surrounding the cause and effect research motivations inherent throughout media effects scholarship and influences on human behavior. We consider the passive/(re)active audience and pervasive traditional mediums and new convergent media that guide and often drive our engagement with and responses to how media messages impact our lives. By analyzing and discussing research across multiple methodological approaches, we strive toward a deeper understanding of media portrayals and representations, processes and effects, and assess the potential for impact among diverse audiences. Situated in media effects theories, we focus generally on media (mis)information and media literacy across a range of topics. We will explore the following media effects research topics in this course: social media, stereotypes, and violence. Students participating in July Experience take one morning class and one afternoon class each day, Monday through Friday. Classes meet for 90 minutes, with the possibility of additional laboratory sessions in selected courses. July Experience courses although taught with college-level rigor, do not carry any secondary school or college credit. This allows students to take risks and explore curriculum without the pressure of impacting his or her permanent record. Courses are graded on an Honors/Pass/Fail basis and a detailed written letter to parents/guardians is provided by each professor after the conclusion of the program. Students will have the opportunity to select their class preferences after they have been admitted to the program. To ensure small class sizes, students may be assigned second or third choices. The total cost of July Experience 2019 is $4,000. Tuition covers the following areas: Room and board (all meals and self-service laundry), Textbook(s) for use during the duration of the program, and Scheduled activity costs/fees. Tuition does not include travel expenses and personal spending money. Application process includes: online application, transcript, school profile, counselor recommendation form, teacher recommendation form, essay. Students must complete the Online Application in its entirety and submit it in one online session. Financial aid is available with the completion of an additional scholarship application.