Media & Cultural Studies - AS/A2 WJEC
Why choose Media Studies?
The study of this subject will give you more of an idea of the power of the media in your life - the impact it has on you in social, political and economic terms.
What can I expect to learn?
The course investigates the ways in which different media such as newspapers, documentaries, advertising and film influence the way we see and think about the world we live in. You are bombarded by different media texts on a daily basis and, without knowing, you are highly skilled in interpreting and decoding the messages they include. It could be said that society and the way we live has, to a certain extent, been determined by the media which operate in our world. In response to this you will study the numerous debates and issues surrounding media production in our society today:
* Do sex and violence in the mediums of film and television affect us?
* Does the news really tell us the truth?
* Who owns and controls our media and how much power do they really have on national and global levels?
* Can we actually be manipulated into changing our behaviour through the medium of advertising?
You will develop filming, video editing, storyboarding and research skills, along with the ability to evaluate your own work. You will also learn about the media industries and recent developments in technology. You will have the opportunity to work with professional standard equipment such as digital video cameras and editing software.
What subjects combine well with Media Studies ?
English and sociology are natural combinations with media studies but there are many other subjects that also link with it including business studies, psychology, and government and politics.
Where does this lead? What can I do next?
Media Studies is one of the fastest growing A levels in Britain at the moment and universities have responded with courses in journalism, photo-journalism, television studies, film studies and media studies through to history and media, sociology and media and other such combinations.
What background, skills and achievements do I need?
No prior Level 2 qualification is required in Media Studies though sound written and oral communication skills are essential. Where Media Studies has been studies at GCSE level a minimum of grade C will be required.
"Television is called a medium because anything good on it is rare."
Fred Allen
