This module will explore the relationship between journalists and conflict. We will begin by examining the changes in war reporting over the last 150 years, as well as changes in the media. Then, beginning with the Second World War and continuing with the Vietnam, the Falklands, and the 1991 Gulf wars, we will look at the relationship between journalists, the military and the state in times of conflict, focusing on the question of whether the media is a tool of the government or whether war reporting is independent and objective. Military-media relations will also be addressed. Then, by examining Western reporting of wars in the Third World (reporting 'other peoples' wars) as well as reports of humanitarian crises, we will assess the issue of the 'social construction' of conflict. These themes will be brought together in a discussion of the vexed question of the relationship between the media and terrorism. Coverage of the on-going conflict in Iraq will round off the programme. A key focus in the context of conflict will be a consideration of the so-called 'CNN effect' - whereby the media can influence policy - and the alternative 'manufacturing consent' perspective - which sees governments getting their message across through the media.

The essay will provide the opportunity to demonstrate all five learning outcomes through a focused question that in each case will require knowledge of the practical implications of conflict and journalism. The essay will require you to demonstrate the reading of relevant texts and the use of other appropriate materials to develop an analysis of the relevant issue. The essay will also require you to write clearly and analytically about the issues raised in the essay question relevant to a case study of journalism and conflict.

A pass is awarded only when all of the assessment is complete and the work meets the learning objectives of the module.
A merit performance in the module will be indicated by an exemplary performance in meeting the learning objectives of the module.
A distinction performance in the module will be indicated by excellence in meeting the learning objectives of the module.

To undertake this module, learners must be employed within the British Armed Forces and would normally hold an undergraduate award or equivalent.

Philip Knightly, 2000, The First Casualty: The war correspondent as hero and myth-maker from the Crimea to Kosovo, London, Prion Books, ISBN: 1-85375-376-9
Susan L. Carruthers, 2000, The Media at War, Basingstoke, Macmillan, ISBN: 0-333-69143-1.
Stuart Allan and Barbie Zelizer (eds), Reporting War: Journalism in Wartime, 2004, London, Routledge, ISBN 0-415-33998-7

University Library
Blackboard
Internet

The module will be delivered by a series of workshops, spread over an intensive 2 day programme (this will contribute to 12 hours of contact time) . The intention is to deliver information and explain the context of the material under examination in lecture format with discussion points built in to the lecture material. Following the face-to-face workshops, learners will undertake additional work via e-learning. This will consist of interactive tasks via Blackboard and tutorial support. 126 hours are to be used in self-directed study assisted by a detailed module handbook and Blackboard material. Self-directed study will include preparation for an essay.