MEDC 5010: Introduction to Graduate Studies: Advanced Thinking and Writing

(formerly MEDC 5550 Topics in Media Communications: Analytical Thinking & Writing)

Course Description

This course is an introduction to Graduate Studies in Media Communications that provides students with knowledge and skills in three important ways to maximize academic success as a graduate student. The course will focus on:

Critical thinking and advanced analysis skills
Basic information on academic research and library searches, and
Advanced writing

The course will also offer a brief introduction to effective online learning.

Prerequisites

None

Incoming Competencies

Admission to graduate degree program. In some cases, students are referred by a member of faculty, an academic advisor or the Graduate Council. Also, as for all Internet courses, students must be disciplined and self-motivated.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Demonstrate skills in critical analysis of various media samples through online discussion and writing.
Demonstrate understanding and skills in academic, library research through online course activities and written assignments. This will also include the basics of MLA form, citations, etc.
Demonstrate proficiency in writing skills that are essential to graduate school success through drafts and revisions of 3 papers that includes thesis and argument development, organization, style and tone for appropriate audience, incorporate developing a thesis, and integrating research and quotes.
Demonstrate understanding and use of online course features including BbVista course components, the Help Desk, Ask a Librarian Online, etc.
Analyze and apply appropriate qualatative and quantatative research information including industry data, professional journals and case studies to their direct communications decision-making
Effectively present their direct communications recoomendations in both written and oral formats.

Course Materials

Please go to MBS Direct to find the appropriate textbooks for this course.

Please be aware when purchasing your textbooks that the International versions of the text may differ from the Domestic (North American) version required for your course.

Click here for more information about textbooks for online courses..

Course Activities

Reading
Participation in Online Discussions
Leading Online Discussions
Written Assignments
Quizzes
Final Exam

University Policy Statements

This course is governed by the University's policies, as published in the University catalog. They can also be found online at http://www.webster.edu/gradcatalog/policies.shtml

Any student caught cheating or committing plagiarism may fail the class and be subject to further disciplinary action.

This syllabus may be revised at the discretion of the instructor without the prior notification or consent of the student.

Programs Students Faculty Help About OLC