ABC, NBC, and Fox may all sound familiar but did you know the British Broadcasting Corporation is the largest is broadcasting organization in the world?  What impact does this public service media giant play in the UK and around the world?  What about radio broadcasting? Where does the radio format fit in a modern society?  What role do digital technologies play in modern broadcast?  Students in this course will explore the history of British radio and television broadcasting, its role in British society and culture, its global impact, and its place in today’s digital world.

The course is built on the idea that broadcasting must exist not only to entertain the public but to inform and educate as well, British broadcasting to this day remains a lively mix of genres and programs, with extensive influence throughout the world.  Students will cover topics such as public service broadcasting, competition in British broadcasting, documentaries and their importance to British cultural identity, the news, current affairs and reality television and broadcasting exports.

Students will hear guest speakers from BBC Radio, Channel 4 news media, and the Independent Production sector. Co-curricular excursions will include visits to the BBC, Sky News, a live television or radio program recording, the British Film Institute Mediatheque, and a production company.

EXAMPLE CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES (2-4 PER COURSE)

• British Museum
• British Library
• Fulham Palace

COURSE OUTLINE