12607 - History of Journalism (1)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students will be able to orient themselves in the historiographical debate on the relationship between journalistic communication and the historical, social, political and economic contexts in which it is expressed; they will be able to reflect and report critically on issues of a general nature; and they will demonstrate specific skills of analysis on historical moments of particular significance for the reality of our country.

Course contents

The course deals with the history of Italian journalism from the beginning of the 20th century to the present time, placing it in a broader European and global historical perspective. Particular attention will be paid to the relationship between information and political power, the transformations of the media system and the forms of consumption of journalistic products. Part of the reflection will also concern the evolution of the profession of journalist, especially following the most recent innovations introduced by the digital revolution.

Readings/Bibliography

Compulsory base text:

- Giovanni Gozzini, Storia del giornalismo, Pearson, Milano-Torino, 2020 (third edition)

One text to choose from:

- Mauro Forno, Informazione e potere. Storia del giornalismo italiano, Laterza, Roma-Bari, 2012

- Paolo Murialdi, Storia del giornalismo italiano, il Mulino, Bologna, 2021 (fifth edition).

Further bibliographical information will be provided during the lessons.

Teaching methods

The course consists of 15 lectures with the use of Powerpoint and audiovisual materials. At least one of the lessons will be attended by a professional from the sector, who, on the basis of his or her personal experience, will explore some aspects of the profession of journalist and its most recent transformations.

Assessment methods

The examination consists of an oral test, which will focus on the study of the two books listed and of the teaching materials provided by the lecturer.
An accurate and thorough knowledge of the topics covered in the course, together with good analytical and critical skills and a mastery of the specific language will be assessed with marks of excellence (30-30L).
A solid knowledge of the topics covered in the course, together with clear analytical and critical skills and a command of the specific language will be assessed with very good marks (27-29).
A mostly mechanical and/or mnemonic knowledge of the subject, an ability to analyse not always well articulated and/or a correct but not always appropriate language will lead to fair marks (23-26).
Weak analytical skills and approximate or inappropriate language, albeit in a context of minimal knowledge of the examination material, will lead to sufficient marks (18-22).

Teaching tools

Powerpoint presentations weekly uploaded in the educational web page “Materiali didattici”.

Office hours

See the website of Matteo Pasetti