News Sociology and Public Discourse

The aim of the course is to present various theoretical approaches to the meaning of public discourse and to analyze its functions of discourses types. During the lectures, students are introduced to the principles of discourse formation (socio-cultural context, communication channels, discursive norms, key players, etc.). Lectures and seminars are devoted for learning to recognize different types of discourse, implied meanings, implications and tacit rules or assumptions, masking possibility for manipulation. Finally, this course is designed not only to provide knowledge but also to develop critical thinking and language awareness.

To introduce students to the structure of public discourse, the principles of its formation, its functions and types, critical analysis methods and to recognize ideological trends hidden in a text.

“Introducing Public Communication Studies: An Overview of Theoretical Approaches”, “Institutions and Society”

The aim of the course is to present various theoretical approaches to the meaning of public discourse and to analyze its functions of discourses types. During the lectures, students are introduced to the principles of discourse formation (socio-cultural context, communication channels, discursive norms, key players, etc.). Lectures and seminars are devoted for learning to recognize different types of discourse, implied meanings, implications and tacit rules or assumptions, masking possibility for manipulation. Finally, this course is designed not only to provide knowledge but also to develop critical thinking and language awareness.

Acquired knowledge and analytical skills to identify and critically analyze and evaluate the processes of discourse formation in different intercultural contexts. Acquired knowledge and abilities to critically analyze various discourses and their transformation processes influenced by various political, economic, technological and socio-cultural factors. Discussed in groups different types of discourses, different principles of their formation, expressions and consequences. Analysis of specific cases during the workshops; at the same time students formulate idea for individual projects. Students prepare presentations to present the results of individual analysis and demonstrate abilities to observe and analyze a variety of closed / open, local / global discourses. Students demonstrate abilities to critically analyze texts, to make insights about the characteristics of the discourse, to argue their personal positions, to formulate original / interesting research ideas for future research.