131-223 Making News: Making Histories

Usually 25 points of first-year history or media and communications, see Prerequisites.

The media in their news-making role invoke histories continually. The subject will introduce students to a more critical approach to the way in which history is presented in the media and will help them to identify some of the simplifications popularly circulated. But it will also aim to provide some tools for the researching of other forms of contemporary history. It will do this by examining some of the major news stories of the day and the way history is invoked in them, and asking what other forms of historical representation are available or possible. The circulation of counter or alternative histories will also be examined, in a range of media. The subject engages with the way in which the media has presented a number of historical cases and will examine the historical understandings which inform media coverage of current issues such as the Middle East, Aboriginal land claims, and the war on terrorism.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument.

A research essay of 2400 words 54% (due mid semester), a reflective essay of 1600 words 36% (due at the end of semester) and tutorial participation 10%.

A subject reader will be available.