Issues most relevant to contemporary news and feature writing, namely defamation, contempt of court, privacy, reporting on sexual offences, reports including children, copyright and confidentiality. The course also covers ethics of journalism. Court cases featuring in the news will be included where appropriate to underpin teaching and learning.

Assessments 1-2 = Learning outcomes 1-2


Both are “Open Book” style assessments. This means the student can refer to law course textbooks. The use of McNae’s or equivalent texts is permitted.


Employability

A basic knowledge of media law is a must for new employees at all credible media employers. Even if students go on to work as self-employed media practitioners, then a sound knowledge of media law is essential, as it could help avoid legal problems.


Diversity

Focus will be made on equality (gender/race) issues that impact the law and ethics of the media workplace

One three-hour lecture/seminar/workshop per week (13x3 hours)
Reading and other tasks as appropriate

1. Effectively operate in the journalism industry with appropriate grasp of, and regard for, legal constraints, ethical considerations and regulatory guidelines

2. Demonstrate a critical, contextual understanding of ethical considerations and how to resolve them

Course book

Module notes (Blackboard)

Extra reading (Blackboard)

Specimen examination papers and revision tips (Blackboard)

Dodd M. & Hanna M. (2020): McNae’s Essential Law for Journalists. Oxford University Press, 23rd edition. Note: do not use an earlier edition.

McBride K. & Rosenstiel T eds. (2014): The New Ethics of Journalism. Sage.

Thom C. (2016): Online Law for Journalists. First Edition. Clean Copy Publishing.

None

You will learn the building blocks of media law in this module. All journalists need a solid grounding in the law to keep themselves (and their editors) on the right side of it!
In an era of 'Fake News', ethical issues have never been more important for the modern journalist.