Journalism and Mass Communications Mass Communications 215: Media Visionaries. Spring 2016

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1 Journalism and Mass Communications Mass Communications 215: Media Visionaries Spring 2016 Instructor: Prof. Bob Rucker Office Location: Dwight Bentel Hall ( DBH ) 103 Telephone: Office Hours: Class: Days/Time (* Call for appointments to meet No s*) robert.rucker@sjsu.edu Mondays, 3:30 pm 4:30 pm, or by appointment in advance. Mondays 6 pm to 8:45 pm Classroom: Dwight Bentel Hall Room 225 Syllabus-Info Online: Advisory: Prof. Rucker is also Director of the School of Journalism and Mass Communications. His schedule can be very busy every day throughout the semester. If you have an urgent need to speak with him, and are encouraged to call the JMC Office, or come to DBH 105, and leave a message. He will respond as soon as possible. Throughout the semester check his website: for updates on the MCOM 215: Media Visionaries class. Course Description This class guest lecture seminar will enable students to interact with visiting media industry and Silicon Valley national and international experts and leaders focused on the development of innovative thinking and practices in the media. Through classroom discussions with professionals and out of class research, students will identify the latest thinking and technological advances that drive media strategic planning for the 21 st century. Questioning should focus on key variables in integrated communication strategies. Among them are the impact of big data, the unique perspectives of different generations and cultural communities, intellectual property concerns, financial planning, creative design and development, and diversity inclusion in leadership decision making. MCOM 215: New Media Visionaries Page 1 of 7

2 Course Expectations Students will be introduced to individuals and groups who lead public understanding of Silicon Valley and global media entrepreneurship. Each week students are required to (1) stay current and discuss timely local, national and international news and information, (2) share a wide range of perspectives on how news affects media decision-making, (3) evaluate critical thinking strategies applied by media professionals, (4) actively participate in probative conversations with professional media guests to discern their vision and communication strategies for the future, and (5) provide written reports that compare and contrasts expert viewpoints, strategies and planning. Class members must also be able to work in teams to help identify, contact and invite additional perspectives for the class. Student may also be invited to visit local business and media outlets, and/or participate in professional meetings and conferences off campus. Program Learning Outcomes The School of Journalism and Mass Communications is committed to providing a dynamic learning environment through an innovative multimedia educational approach that enables a free flow of diverse ideas, critical thinking and the creative and responsible use of new technology. The School has adopted Program Learning Objectives based on the Professional Values and Competencies identified by the national Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC). They help students: 1. understand and apply the principles and laws of freedom of speech and press for the country in which the institution that invites ACEJMC is located, as well as receive instruction in and understand the range of systems of freedom of expression around the world, including the right to dissent, to monitor and criticize power, and to assemble and petition for redress of grievances. 2. demonstrate an understanding of the history and role of professionals and institutions in shaping communications. 3. demonstrate an understanding of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation and, as appropriate, other forms of diversity in domestic society in relation to mass communications. 4. demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of peoples and cultures and of the significance and impact of mass communications in a global society. 5. understand concepts and apply theories in the use and presentation of images and information. 6. demonstrate an understanding of professional ethical principles and work ethically in pursuit of truth, accuracy, fairness and diversity. 7. think critically, creatively and independently. 8. conduct research and evaluate information by methods appropriate to the communications professions in which they work. 9. write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for the communications professions, audiences and purposes they serve. MCOM 215: New Media Visionaries Page 2 of 7

3 10. critically evaluate their own work and that of others for accuracy and fairness, clarity, appropriate style and grammatical correctness. 11. apply basic numerical and statistical concepts. 12. apply current tools and technologies appropriate for the communications professions in which they work, and to understand the digital world. MCOM 215: Media Visionaries uses the following Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs), drawn from specific program learning objectives, which are pertinent for this graduate class. Students are expected to: CLO 1 Demonstrate an understanding of the principles and laws of freedom of speech and free expression around the world which enable the right to dissent, to monitor and criticize power, assemble and petition for redress of grievances through creative approaches in global media. CLO 2 Demonstrate knowledge of diverse and multicultural audiences, and the ability to effectively communicate the views of these groups, and identify professional media decision-making and responses to their needs. CLO 3 Think critically, creatively and independently while expressing individual ideas and perspectives effectively both verbally and in writing. CLO 4 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of ethical, professional, and legal guidelines that shape global media messages and practices. Texts/Readings Prof. Rucker will provide links or handouts to important reading assignments most of the semester. For inspired reading, he suggests the following textbook. The book is available at the MLK Library and in Amazon.com. The Art of Possibility, by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander, Penguin Books, most current edition, ISBN # Additional reading materials will be assigned as the semester defines itself. Additional reading assignments on the Web will be posted on the instructor s website: Student groups will meet with guest lecturers and will be responsible for suggesting advance readings to help develop lively and informative in class presentations. MCOM 215: Classroom Protocols This course has its foundation in the basic concept of storytelling. Students are required to identify and share timely and compelling information and developments that motivate media companies and the public. MCOM 215 students must be on time, attend every scheduled class meeting, volunteer current events knowledge and information, keep up with reading assignments, demonstrate the ability to connect timely global trends and reactions, and actively engage guest media professionals. Silence and shyness are not acceptable in this class. Active participation means volunteering facts, research, thoughts and ideas at all times. Unexcused absences to address personal needs or obligations are not acceptable. A student can forfeit their overall course grade with two or more unexcused absences. MCOM 215: New Media Visionaries Page 3 of 7

4 Professor Rucker enjoys and expects honest and informed class interactions each class. Individual opinions, especially those that are unique and provocative are welcome. Expect the professor to use a devil s advocate approach, and classmates to offer respectful disagreement with views to enable broader understanding of issues and ideas. Candor is always encouraged. False reporting of information or data, and inappropriate emotional conduct are never acceptable and may be considered serious violations of university codes of conduct. If disruptive behavior prevents the professor or class from engaging in lively and candid discussions, a grade penalty may be imposed, and/or the offending student may be asked to leave the class. Class critiques of assignments and guest speaker experiences will be conducted weekly in a professional manner. The professor will probe to inspire more critical thinking by all. Never take this approach as a personal attack. That is never the intent. Expect both affirming and critical assessments to be openly expressed by both instructor and classmates. Self-discipline is required. Absolutely NO texting, cell phone or laptop computer use during class time unless explicitly requested or approved by the class instructor. Violators of these self-discipline standards may be asked to leave the class. This would be counted as an unexcused absence. Two or more unexcused absences will result in an overall failing grade for this course. Missing class due to illness or other emergencies are excused absences. There is always a reasonable expectation that all students will attend and participate in MCOM 215. Students must call in-advance of class start to explain unique circumstances, and ask for excused absence. s and text messages are never appropriate ways to notify the professor and they will not be accepted. Job conflicts, athletic activities and other personal choices should not be considered acceptable for an excused absence. Assignments. Expect no extension of deadlines for the submission of assignments. Expect no make-up opportunities. Meet your obligations on time always. Reading assignments provide information for class and guest speaker discussions. Make a point of incorporating content from reading materials in class discussions and written assignments. Course Add / Drop responsibility. Graduate students planning to add or drop this class must do so by the university deadlines posted on the SJSU and JMC School website. Never expect the professor to drop you if you are registered but do not attend class. NOTE: Consider the last day to drop and add a class the absolute deadline in MCOM 215. Even though the university provides late semester options, the JMC School enforces a strict policy of NO LATE ADDS or DROPS. In all media professions employers expect responsibilities of assignments and deadlines to be met at all times, period. Prof. Rucker normally does not sign off on late petitions without appropriate support documentation of unique circumstances. Emergency Notification. Should Prof. Rucker have an emergency or cannot attend a class meeting, look for an update in advance on his website: Class may meet in his absence, especially if a guest has been scheduled, so everyone must attend class and be prepared to engage a normal interaction with the guest. Attendance will be taken. Visitors Restrictions. Students may not bring visitors to class without permission from Prof. Rucker before that class. Visitors must respect all the protocols of this class, refrain from asking personal questions, or being disruptive. Prof. Rucker can revoke the permission and ask the guest to leave the room. Professional Media Access to MCOM 215 class. Sometimes our timely discussions and guest attract local media attention. Prof. Rucker will notify MCOM 215 students when the professional media asks to attend and record a particular class session. Students should contact Prof. Rucker immediately if they have any concerns. MCOM 215: New Media Visionaries Page 4 of 7

5 Networking with guests. Always listen carefully to each class guest speaker. Many times a guest may offer contact information. You can also ask for it at the end of the interaction. Keep all future contacts with that guest professional in approach. No student is obligated to share their personal information. MCOM 215 students are also not required to share guest contact information if it is given after the full class session with the guest has concluded. Class Updates: Check regularly Prof. Rucker s MCOM 215 class website link for timely updates. Unexpected things and opportunities happen all the time at SJSU and in the world. Always check to see if an update has been offered. Technology Requirements. This is primarily a lecture-based seminar class, but students are strongly encouraged to create and share class assignment notes as a way of developing their professional portfolio and fostering classmate inclusiveness. Students must ask the professor or the guest in advance if something during class time can be recorded or photographed. Graduate students should draw on their current and undergraduate training with new technology and offer creative new suggestions on how to document and share MCOM 215 learning experiences. When in doubt check with the professor in advance. JMC School Library Liaison. Each semester a staff member working at the Martin Luther King Jr. Library on campus is made available to assist with JMC school student research efforts. Ms. Paul Kauppila is the JMC School liaison at MLK. You can contact him by at Paul.Kauppila@sjsu.edu. He can also help you as you develop your graduate projects and research efforts. Always give him advance notice of your needs. Allow time for him to respond effectively to your needs. Be respectful always, and remember he works for MLK Library, not the JMC School. MCOM 215 Grading: Students will be graded on the elements and expectations of the course: 50% - Class participation. All aspects are important: Being on time for class Offering timely current events and media industry updates pertinent to class topic discussions Providing evidence of research preparation for both guest speaker, instructor and classmate interactions. Volunteering new perspectives and provocative opinions are always welcome. Always do so respectfully. Always be prepared to offer candid insights about company and media ethics, diversity, media education, industry standards and global expectations. Source and content attribution adds to your credibility. Avoid being generic. 25% - Individual Assignments. Timely efforts focused on class discussions and global developments. Tracking down and securing pertinent course content or experts Submitting written reports on deadline is essential for any credit Developing multimedia, web, blog or other technology based efforts pertinent to class instruction. A final, ten page minimum, written assessment of guest interactions and class accomplishments due on the last day of class, December 3 rd. 25% - Teamwork / Leadership. Evaluation of team assignments and group dynamics. Ability to work together and motivate each other to meet or surpass expectations Demonstration of appropriate group ingenuity and creative approaches Reporting candidly and honestly on team efforts and individual performance during classroom critiques. Meeting all group and instructor deadlines required. Working to find unique and appropriate visionary guests for class participation efforts. Note: Each member of the assigned team shares a group grade for the overall effort. Communicate effectively and work together. If the professor has to resolve basic group conflicts, expect a grade penalty. MCOM 215: New Media Visionaries Page 5 of 7

6 Innovative new ideas and suggestions for the class are always welcome by Professor Rucker. Some he may be able to facilitate, some he may not. Extra Credit - Optional (Not required) 1. Special campus or community event outings. Special guest speakers are always coming to SJSU throughout the academic year. Some in other departments might be interesting for this class. Consult with Prof. Rucker first before reaching out to inquire about a specific opportunity. If approved, get the details well in advance from the event host or coordinator. Find out if our class could attend and/or participate, and is their any cost involved. Be good critical thinkers on these search and find missions! 2. Diversity Potluck/Learning Opportunities. Many an unexpected meal has brought visionaries and innovators together throughout history. Your instructor, classmates and guests might enjoy trying your individual cultural community dishes. Let Prof. Rucker know well in advance if you individually would like to bring a cultural dish for everyone to try. For participation credit you MUST briefly talk at the outset about the history of your dish. No alcoholic beverages ever. Assigned teams can get extra credit by developing a theme around several cultural foods or non-alcoholic drinks they offer. Identify cultural similarities or connections. Each team member must contribute some item. Team members must briefly report about their collective food offerings. Plan ahead and let Prof. Rucker know the date you would like. FYI: Have fun with this if you like, but note: Prof. Rucker is allergic to many sea foods, and some students are not comfortable eating certain foods. Advise all in advance. Don t let that stop you from introducing the class to your cultural dish and history. Bring Supplies: Plates, utensils, napkins, etc., and classroom clean-up is required to get extra credit for any individual or team potluck effort. SJSU Academic Integrity Your commitment as a student to learning is evidenced by your enrollment at San Jose State University. The university s integrity policy requires you to be honest in all your academic course work. Faculty members are required to report all infractions to the office of Student Conduct and Ethical Development. The Student Conduct and Ethical Development website is available at Instances of academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. Cheating on exams or plagiarism (presenting the work of another as your own, or the use of another person s ideas without giving proper credit) will result in a failing grade and sanctions by the University. For this class, all assignments are to be completed by the individual student unless otherwise specified. If you would like to include your assignment or any material you have submitted, or plan to submit for another class, please note that SJSU s Academic Integrity Policy S07-2 requires approval of instructors. Campus Policy in Compliance with the American Disabilities Act If you need course adaptations or accommodations because of a disability, or if you need to make special arrangements in case the building must be evacuated, please make an appointment with me as soon as possible, or see me during office hours. Presidential Directive at requires that students MCOM 215: New Media Visionaries Page 6 of 7

7 with disabilities requesting accommodations must register with the Accessible Education Center (AEC) at to establish a record of your disability. Student Technology Resources Computer labs for student use are available in the Academic Success Center at located on the 1st floor of Clark Hall and in the Associated Students Lab on the 2nd floor of the Student Union. Additional computer labs may be available in your department/college. Computers are also available in the Martin Luther King Library. A wide variety of audio-visual equipment is available for student checkout from Media Services located in IRC 112. These items include DV and HD digital camcorders; digital still cameras; video, slide and overhead projectors; DVD, CD, and audiotape players; sound systems, wireless microphones, projection screens and monitors. SJSU Peer Connections Peer Connections, a campus-wide resource for mentoring and tutoring, strives to inspire students to develop their potential as independent learners while they learn to successfully navigate through their university experience. You are encouraged to take advantage of their services which include course-content based tutoring, enhanced study and time management skills, more effective critical thinking strategies, decision making and problem-solving abilities, and campus resource referrals. In addition to offering small group, individual, and drop-in tutoring for a number of undergraduate courses, consultation with mentors is available on a drop-in or by appointment basis. Workshops are offered on a wide variety of topics including preparing for the Writing Skills Test (WST), improving your learning and memory, alleviating procrastination, surviving your first semester at SJSU, and other related topics. A computer lab and study space are also available for student use in Room 600 of Student Services Center (SSC). Peer Connections is located in three locations: SSC, Room 600 (10th Street Garage on the corner of 10 th and San Fernando Street), at the 1st floor entrance of Clark Hall, and in the Living Learning Center (LLC) in Campus Village Housing Building B. Visit Peer Connections website at for more information. SJSU Writing Center The SJSU Writing Center is located in Clark Hall, Suite 126. All Writing Specialists have gone through a rigorous hiring process, and they are well trained to assist all students at all levels within all disciplines to become better writers. In addition to one-on-one tutoring services, the Writing Center also offers workshops every semester on a variety of writing topics. To make an appointment or to refer to the numerous online resources offered through the Writing Center, visit the Writing Center website at For additional resources and updated information, follow the Writing Center on Twitter and become a fan of the SJSU Writing Center on Facebook. MCOM 215: New Media Visionaries Page 7 of 7