A 6-hour written exam (100% of the final grade)

The grading scale A-F is used, where F is a fail.

Norwegian Scandinavian languages English

3JO251E overlaps 10 ECTS with 3GJ311

Evaluation according to the Quality Assurance System for Education at NLA University College.

Required prerequisite knowledge

Relevance within study programme

Introduction

3JO251E Nordic Media looks into the media structure and journalism practice in the Nordic countries (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland). The course examines political and economic conditions for the media, including the role of state subsidy. The course builds on the overview of media systems covered in 3JO250E Introduction to Global Journalism and places the Nordic media in an international context. The course pays particular attention to public service broadcasting (public service media), which is a central to the Nordic media model. The course includes visits to relevant local media organizations.

Learning outcomes descriptors

Upon completion of the course, the student has achieved the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge

The student

is familiar with the background of the media in the Nordic countries as well as their current challenges
has knowledge of various forms of financing of the Nordic media, including government subsidy systems
has knowledge of a Nordic approach to public service media

Skills

The student

can discuss strengths and weaknesses of the Nordic media system
can discuss how the Nordic media system relates to other media systems
can consider how media policy in the Nordic countries influences journalistic practice

General competence

The student

is able to assess the relationship between a regional media system, media structure and journalistic practice

Content

The first part of the course provides an historical and contemporary overview of Nordic media and journalism in the Nordic countries, including recent developments on the digital media scene. The course discusses to what extent the democratic corporatist model fits the current Nordic media situation, and acquaints students with the differences that exist between the various national media systems/structures in the countries concerned.

The second part of the course discusses developments in the public service media from a Nordic perspective. A key concern emanating from the research literature is the prospect of a public service media philosophy in an era dominated by online technology and marked by audience fragmentation. Taking the Nordic media system as a departure point, this part of the course also demonstrates how public service media are subject to diverse interpretations in different national and cultural contexts. Examples are given of public service media practices in Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and Asia.

The third part of the course takes a case study approach by treating a story which originated in the Nordic media with subsequent international attention. The purpose is to examine global news exchange mechanisms in a situation where a story travels across national and cultural boundaries, receiving diverse treatment in different media societies. The chosen case is the seminal ‘Mohammed cartoons controversy’ (2005/06), but other cases may also be considered.

Teaching and learning methods

Scope

Coursework requirements

Final assessment

Grading, examination

Permitted aids under examination

Assessment language

Credit reductions

Course evaluation

Digital reading list