JOURNALISM CASE STUDIES

Course Description

This course aims to develop students' judgment on contemporary issues in the media through an interactive, discussion-based method. The course is based around case studies which offer real-life dilemmas, and journalism students put themselves in the shoes of reporters, editors or publishers in order to address the issues at hand. Students are also expected to analyze the situation, identify the problem, try to find a solution, and defend their views. Instead of offering simple solutions, students are encouraged to facilitate discussion and create an environment to contribute and learn from each other. With real-life issues, they are able to grapple with the kind of complex problems they may face later in their careers.

JOURNALISM CASE STUDIES

Evaluation Tools (Active Term)

No evaluation items have been defined.

Course outcomes

1. 01 1. Judge the contemporary issues in media
2. 02 2. Explain causes of real-life dilemmas mainly covered in news media
3. 03 3. Analyze the situation and identify the problem according to the cases discussed
4. 04 4. Relate the discourses commonly used in media to the cases commonly seen

Course Syllabus

Reference Books & Course Materials

1. 01 Lundberg, Kirsten O., Palmer, Ruth (editors). (2011). Our Digital Future: Boardrooms and Newsrooms.Columbia Journalism School Publications
2. 02 Harcup, Tony. (2009). Journalism, Principles and Practice. Sage Publications.
3. 03 News media publications as newspapers, magazines and Internet

Learning Outcomes

1. L01 1. Judge the contemporary issues in media
2. L02 2. Explain causes of real-life dilemmas mainly covered in news media
3. L03 3. Analyze the situation and identify the problem according to the cases discussed
4. L04 4. Relate the discourses commonly used in media to the cases commonly seen

Program Outcomes

1. P01 Demonstrate an understanding of the core subfields of psychology — including but not limited to clinical, developmental, cognitive, social, and biological/neuroscientific psychology — and their interconnections with other scientific disciplines, critically evaluating the value of a multidisciplinary approach to scientific inquiry in psychology.
2. P02 Apply scientific methods, research techniques, measurement and psychometric principles (e.g., reliability, validity, scale development/adaptation), and quantitative/statistical reasoning to investigate psychological phenomena, recognizing methodological strengths, limitations, common reasoning fallacies, and the flaws of pseudoscience.
3. P03 Employ logical, intuitive, and creative thinking to analyze psychological concepts, evaluate theories (including their historical and philosophical development), synthesize information, and solve complex problems related to cognition and behavior.
4. P04 Integrate psychological theories and findings into practical settings (e.g., business, policy, clinical/counseling contexts, and daily life), applying foundational applied skills such as interviewing, observation, and case formulation, drawing meaningful conclusions to inform individual, organizational, and societal practices.
5. P05 Describe key ethical principles in psychological research and practice, critically applying these principles to dilemmas across academic, professional, and everyday contexts.
6. P06 Recognize how individual differences (e.g., beliefs, values, backgrounds) impact behavior and relationships; use psychological knowledge to prevent or resolve intercultural and interpersonal conflicts and promote inclusive, respectful interactions.
7. P07 Exhibit self-regulation and self-awareness, demonstrating a commitment to psychological well-being, effective time management, constructive incorporation of feedback, and ongoing personal and professional development.
8. P08 Collaborate effectively in diverse teams, demonstrating responsibility, bias awareness, conflict resolution skills, and leadership in achieving collective goals.
9. P09 Communicate psychological knowledge clearly and appropriately for academic, professional, and public audiences using inclusive language, both in written and oral formats, and by accurately summarizing and presenting research findings.
10. P10 Use information and communication technologies (including AI and digital media) responsibly and effectively for research, collaboration, and the dissemination of psychological knowledge.
11. P11 Embrace lifelong learning and adaptability in response to evolving psychological knowledge and societal needs, engaging with global perspectives and demonstrating intercultural awareness.

Po-Lo Matrix