MEDIA AND INFORMATION KNOWLEDGE – PROGRAMME SUBJECT IN PROGRAMMES FOR SPECIALIZATION IN GENERAL STUDIES (MIN1-01)

The programme subject Media and information knowledge builds on a humanistic and social science tradition. A historical perspective is fundamental when studying the relationship between medium and society. This is important, not least for understanding the role of the media as a precondition for freedom of expression – and thus democracy. Power and influence are closely linked to the media, nationally and internationally. That is why it is important to study the media analytically and critically.

This programme subject shall help individuals to express their own opinions and participate actively in the democratic process. The media plays a major role in cultural identity for individuals and groups alike, and the programme subject can help create an awareness of the relationship between medium and identity. In many occupations, it is vital to have knowledge of and insight into the role that the media plays in society. The programme subject shall help promote self-awareness and cultural refinement, and in so doing it can serve as a good basis for vocational life and studies at college or university.

In this programme subject it is important to find, receive, handle, integrate and evaluate information as a basis for further work with personal forms of expression in the mediums of text, sound and images and in combinations thereof. Therefore, the training shall pave the way for a discussion of ethical questions, for the development of a sense for the aesthetic, and for gaining experience and creative development. To link these disparate aspects of the programme subject, there shall be an emphasis on media production and journalistic method. As a point of departure, the teaching should address the individual as an active, interested user of the media and focus on developing abilities and talents individually and in collaboration with others.