Religion and Media

Aim and Content

The objective of the course is to provide the student with a basic understanding of different relations between religion and media, especially in the contemporary world, and of some methods and theoretical perspectives used in the analysis of these relations.

The course unit can be studied at 200 and 300 level, and it can be included as an independent unit in a Bachelor' s or a Maste's Programme. RELV230 is an optional unit within the Bachelor Programme in the Study of Religions.

Learning Outcomes

When the course requirements have been fulfilled, the student will have achieved the following:

Knowledge

Basic knowledge of relations between religion and various types of media, both in an historical and contemporary context,

acquaintance with some methods and theories used for the analysis of religion and media, as well as critical perspectives related to these

capability of putting the knowledge about religion and media in relation to the history of religions in general,

and challenging general preconceptions on religion, media and their interplay.

Skills

Capability of:

analysing a complex theme and of drawing conclusions on one¿s own, critically examining cases, theories and methods,

and writing a coherent analytical text, thereby demonstrating a capacity for using the norms and techniques of academic writing.

General competence

Practice in handling large quantities of information and literature within a short time period, and of interpreting and presenting information.

Course offered (semester)

Spring

Language of Instruction

English

Course Unit Level

Bachelor

Department

Department of Archaeology, History, Culture Studies and Religion (AHKR)

Access to the Course Unit

Open access for all students who are matriculated at the University of Bergen.

Recommended previous knowledge

The student should have a sound knowledge of English since the course literature and the lectures are in English.

Subject Overlap

RELV330

Teaching Methods

Approximately 10 lectures/seminars, totally 20 hours.

Compulsory Requirements

None

Assessment methods

The examination consists of one assigned essay of 2,000 words (30%) and one final essay of 5,000 words (70%). Both must be passed in order to pass the course.

Examination is only possible in terms when the course is taught.

The exam unit is open to students without study rights after an application to the Faculty of Humanities.

Grading Scale

A graded marking scale (A to F) is used. A is the top grade and F means Failed.

Reading List

The reading list consists of about 1200 pages.

Place of Teaching

Bergen

Course Unit Evaluation

As part of the continuous work of improving education, the Institute organizes evaluations of curriculum and teaching with feedback from the students. The results of the evaluations will be the basis of modifications of syllabus, course list, curriculum and teaching.

Contact Information

studierettleiar@ahkr.uib.no