A uniquely effective three-part structure ("History," "Industry," and "Controversy") organizes the extensive content of the survey course in a way that helps students comprehend, categorize, and remember.
"History" sections in each chapter centralize the discussion of key events in mass communication history. A "Milestone" graph follows with a summary of the most important events for a chapter, guiding students through their review.
"Industry" sections in each chapter demonstrate how media practices develop because of industry and economic objectives.
"Controversies" sections introduce students to current debates about mass media among media companies, legislators, consumers, and watchdog groups.
Illustrated tables ("Fact Files") provide brief snapshots of important data for a given industry (e.g. industry leaders, revenue figures, market share, and consumer trends).
Chapter-opening vignettes introduce a central theme for each chapter and encourage critical thinking.
"Close-Up" boxes on history, industry, and controversy reinforce the three-part structure for every chapter and present interesting examples or trends that illustrate key concepts.
Self-quiz questions run alongside the material in the text margins, enabling students to test their comprehension of the material while it is still fresh in their minds, as well as helping them review the material.
Critical thinking questions in the margins of the text stimulate student thinking and foster discussion.
A complete Timeline, located in the Appendix, comprises all of the historical events discussed. The Timeline will also be available as an interactive study tool on the text's Online Learning Center, enabling students to review history by chapter, subject, time frame, or media type.
"Online Excursions" conclude each chapter with an integrated set of media-related activities using the companion student Online Learning Center, which now includes three hours of video content for Media Tours and NBC Media Talk interviews and features from The Today Show and NBC News.
To obtain an instructor login for this Online Learning Center, ask your local sales representative.
If you're an instructor thinking about adopting this textbook, request a free copy for review.
2010 McGraw-Hill Higher Education