This course is designed to give students an understanding of pertinent constitutional, equity and regulatory laws as they relate to mass media and provide students with a basic understanding of how existing laws control the operation of mass media. Students will use case studies to look at the wide range of media law and policy issues from First Amendment rights and Fair Use of media images to how to navigate copyright issues within the digital media landscape. Students will explore the issues affecting the First Amendment, free press, free speech, religion and assembly and other legal issues that affect the media including intellectual property and technology. Upon taking this course students will understand and apply the First Amendment principles and the law appropriate to professional practice; understand the role of history and the role of professionals and institutions in shaping communication practices. 3 credits Prerequisites: None.
- Teacher: Lynee Murchison