Indicative Content
A sociological analysis of the complex relationship between sport, the media and
the culture of fame. This module draws on both historical and contemporary
understandings of the symbiotic relationship between the media and sport. It
analyses the major social changes that have impacted upon the development of
sport as a vehicle for celebrity and the dissemination of norms and values. The
module introduces concepts of propaganda, performance and power as catalysts
for driving change in an increasingly hyper-commodified landscape. Finally, the
module requires students to critically examine their own experiences of social
media and sport.
Assessment Details
Video Presentation (40%)
Academic Journal Article (2,500 words) (60%)
Both elements must be attempted.
Additional Assessment Details (include formative feedback / assessment):
Assessment briefs will be provided at the start of the semester. Guidance will be
provided via Blackboard and through guidance sessions.
Draft feedback will be given for both assignments.
Learning Strategies
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities (36 hours)
12 Hours lectures will; form an important part of the learning process, increasing
students’ knowledge of crucial issues that underpin the course.
24 hours of seminars will support the content.
Specify the number of Guided Independent Study Hours attributed to each type
of activity (eg reading / assessment preparation). Total hours should equate to
Guided Independent Study Hours identified on page 1 of this form.
Guided Independent Study Hours (114 hours)
50 hours’ assessment preparation.
64 hours undertaking background reading. Including books, journals, current
newspapers and internet to prepare for seminars and discussions.
Specify the number of Guided Independent Study Hours attributed to each type
of activity (eg reading / assessment preparation). Total hours should equate to
Guided Independent Study Hours identified on page 1 of this form.
Texts
Nicholson, M. (2015) Sport and the Media: Managing the Nexus
Giulianotti, R. (2015) Sport: A Critical Sociology, London; Routledge
Andrews, D.L. & Carrington, B. (2013) A Companion to Sport, London; Blackwell
Kelner, M. (2013) Sit Down and Cheer, London; Bloomsbury
Resources
Lecture theatre, seminar room, OHP, VCR, internet access. Access to up to date
journals.
Learning Outcomes
1.Demonstrate an advanced sociological understanding of the symbiotic nature of sport and
the media.
Knowledge
Enquiry
Learning
Analysis
2.Critically evaluate the relationship between the media and sport with an emphasis on
gender, race and power.
Knowledge
Enquiry
Learning
Analysis
3. Critically examine the role of the media in diffusing, promoting and perpetuating hierarchies
in the sporting agora.
Knowledge
Enquiry
Learning
Analysis
4.Critically reflect upon ethnographic experiences in sport and mediated celebrity culture.
Communication,
Reflection
Analysis
5. Critically analyse competing theoretical explanations of narratives of celebrity in sport and
the media.
Knowledge
Enquiry
Learning
Analysis
6. Critically analyse celebrity discourse as part of the sports media landscape.
Communication
Reflection
Analysis
7. Examine how narratives on the sport media diaspora shape wider cultural epistemologies.
Knowledge
Enquiry
Learning
Analysis