Course Name Year Term Period Faculty / Graduate School All Instructors Credits
13083:[2025 Spring]IR18‐EE232 Media and Society (RA) § 13084:IR-ECS204 Media in World Politics (RA) § 13085:RUIR-3521 Media and Society(RA) 2025 Spring Thu2 College Of International Relations OYAMA SHINJI 2

Campus

KIC

Class Venue

MEIGAKUKAN MG002

Language

英語

Course Outline and Method

This course examines the relationship between media and society, analyzing how media institutions, technologies, and cultural practices shape and reflect social structures, identities, and power dynamics. Through theoretical frameworks and case studies, students will explore key themes such as globalization, representation, digital labor, and media industries.

【+R-Jugyo】
Information for “+R-Jugyo” will be posted on the “Course News” on manaba+R by April 1. Be sure to check the “Course News” on manaba+R.

Student Attainment Objectives

Upon completing this course, students will be able to identify the key organizational principles and practices that shape the operations of cultural and media industries in the digital age. They will learn to critically differentiate between specific theories, methods, and resources relevant to the analysis of these industries and apply them effectively.

Recommended Preparatory Course

Course Schedule

Lecture/Instructor(When there are multiple instructors) Theme
Keyword, References and Supplementary Information
1

Introduction

This session introduces the key themes, concepts, and debates in media and society studies, outlining the course structure and expectations. It also highlights historical and contemporary concerns regarding media’s role in shaping culture, politics, and everyday life.

Media, society, culture, communication, history

2-14

Lecture+group discussion

Theories of Media and Society; Media and the State; Media and Society in Globalization; Critical Media Industries Studies; Digital Labor and Production; Promotional Culture and Media; Authenticity in Media Society; Politics of Media Representation: Orientalism; Politics of Media Representation; and Japaneseness; Global Media

Class Format

All lectures will be conducted face-to-face unless otherwise announced

Recommendations for Private Study

Each week, students are required to read two assigned texts (approximately 25–30 pages in total) before attending the lecture. These readings are essential for understanding the key concepts, theories, and debates discussed in class.

Grade Evaluation Method

Kind Percentage Grading Criteria etc.
Final Examination (Written)

Report Examination
(A report to be submitted by the unified deadline)
0

Exams and/or Reports other than those stated above, and Continuous Assessment 
(Evaluation of Everyday Performance in Class)
100

The final report (2,000 words) will be assessed based on the following:

Clearly Articulated Research Question
The report must present a well-defined research question that is consistently addressed throughout.

Collection and Analysis of Original Data
Preference is given to research incorporating original data (e.g., interviews, surveys, case studies, industry reports, or media texts) rather than relying solely on a literature review.

Engagement with Relevant Academic Literature
The report must engage with at least three academic sources.

Attendance
Regular attendance is expected.

Short Essays
Students must submit 2~4 short essays based on course readings.

Class Participation
Active participation in discussions, presentations, and group work is required.
Contributions should demonstrate critical thinking and engagement with course materials.

Grade Evaluation Method (Note)

Advice to Students on Study and Research Methods

Textbooks

Textbooks (Frequency of Use, Note)

Reference Books

Reference Books (Frequency of Use, Note)

Web Pages for Reference

How to Communicate with the Instructor In and Out of Class(Including Instructor Contact Information)

Learning Management System (manaba+R),Talk with Students

Other Comments

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