Communication 397VT - ST- History of Television

This course analyzes the history of television, starting with its roots in radio broadcasting, moving through television?s network era, into the age of cable and narrowcasting, and then arriving at the latest developments in digital television and streaming. With a focus primarily on the U.S. television industry, the course will consider economic, political, regulatory, technological, and cultural transformations and contexts for the development of commercially operated and sponsored programming (as well as some alternatives). Considering creative producers and local and national audiences, we will watch television through the decades to discuss how it has influenced, reflected, and participated in culture, narrative, aesthetics, representation, ideology, politics, technology, and economics throughout its history. By the end of the semester we will more fully understand the significance, influence, and meaning of television as a part of our social history.

Open to Senior and Junior Communication majors only. COMM 140 and 121 or 122