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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2003 - 2004

Module Title Crime and the Media
Module Code CM261
School School of Communications

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorDr Mark O'BrienOffice NumberC145F
Level 2 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Module Aims
To introduce students to the sociological analysis of crime in modern society with particular reference to its media portrayal and the effects of these representations. The module examines and evaluates: 1) a number of key sociological perspectives that offer different explanations for the existence of crime; 2) the portrayal of crime by the media and asks whether such representations are a true or distorted reflection of social reality; 3) institutions involved in law and order including the Garda Siochana, the Courts and the Prison Service.

Learning Outcomes
Students will have gained: 1) A sociologically grounded understanding of the causes of crime and how crime is differentially defined. 2) A critical understanding of the role of the media in shaping society and social norms. 3) A critical awareness of how crime is perceived and dealt with in society.

Indicative Time Allowances
Hours
Lectures 0
Tutorials 0
Laboratories 0
Seminars 0
Independent Learning Time 75

Total 75
Placements
Assignments
NOTE
Assume that a 5 credit module load represents approximately 75 hours' work, which includes all teaching, in-course assignments, laboratory work or other specialised training and an estimated private learning time associated with the module.

Indicative Syllabus
Assessment
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Indicative Reading List
Jones, S: Criminology. Butterworths, 1998. McCullagh, C: Crime in Ireland: A Sociological Introduction. Cork University Press, 1996. OMahony, P: Criminal Chaos: Seven Crises in Irish Criminal Justice. Round Hall, 1996. OMahony, P: Criminal Justice in Ireland. Institute of Public Administration, 2002.
Programme or List of Programmes
CSBA in Communication Studies
JRBA in Journalism
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