Sociology Of Journalism (Bacj 134) Question Paper
Sociology Of Journalism (Bacj 134)
Course:Communication And Journalism
Institution: Kenya Methodist University question papers
Exam Year:2010
FACULTY : EDUCATION
DEPARTMENT : COMMUNICATION & JOURNALISM
TIME : 2 HOURS
INSTRUCTIONS Answer Question ONE and any Other TWO Questions
Question 1
Either
Understanding the importance of relationships lies at the heart of thinking sociologically, (Hoynes and Croteau, 2003). In considering the new media, three types of social relations are crucial. Name and discuss them and show how they affect the work of a journalist. (30marks)
Or
a) Discuss the “model of media and social world
b) Illustrate how such a model could be applied to understand the clamor for the new constitution in Kenya(2008-2010) (30marks)
Question 2
The Mass society theory of post-world war II years (Kornhauser, 1959, Reisman, 1952) suggested the potential for dramatic media influence on individuals and societies. a) Discuss the rise and characteristics of mass society and distinguish it from traditional societies.
b) What were the roles and characteristics of mass society?
c) In your own view, are the concerns raised by the original theory still important in our understanding of the role of news media in society today? (20marks)
Question 3
Discuss the ideas of “ideology” and social ‘construction of reality’ with regard to how representation works in the media. Draw your examples from at least two Kenyan media forms (20marks)
Question 4
a) Discuss how media ownership, concentration and funding affect diversity of programming b) What are the possible effects of constrained diversity on quality of news and representation of political ideas and opinions and cultures of diverse social segments in a Kenyan society? (20marks)
Question 5
Economic and political forces can be very powerful constraints to the work of a journalist. Discuss these constraints and show how journalists can actively respond to these constraints to limit their impact on their work. (20marks)
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