Media Audiences
UndergraduateMUR-COM3032027
Course information for 2027 intake
Audiences can be measured, researched and interpreted in different ways. Study audience research, polling and reach alongside media effects, reception and fandom. Reflect on how institutions and individual responses shape media use.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- Subject may require attendance
- Enrol by
- 18 July 2027
- Entry requirements
- Part of a degree
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Start dates
- 26 July 2027
- Price from
- $2,257
- Upfront cost
- $0
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Media Audiences
About this subject
At the completion of this subject students will be able to:
- Define, explain and apply key concepts and theories in audience studies and audience research.
- Relate audience concepts and theories to current local, regional, international and global examples.
- Demonstrate proficiency in devising and undertaking an audience research project that focuses on a current issue or problem in the field.
- Synthesise, evaluate and utilise information from a range of sources, especially library journal databases.
- Explain and apply ethical thinking when undertaking research, especially in relation to human participants.
- Communicate the findings of your audience research in a professional research report and via an oral presentation.
- Introduction to Media Audiences
- Audience Research
- Public Opinion and Audience Citizenship
- Media Reach and Ratings
- Media Effects
- Audience Research Workshop
- Audience Reception
- Uses and Gratifications
- Interpretation and Decoding
- Media Fandom and Subcultures
- Online, Interactive Audiences
- Audience Research Presentations
This subject provides practical knowledge about how media audiences are measured, understood and analysed. We begin with a historical approach to audience theory then delve into media audience research, opinion polling and audience reach. We then examine theories used to explain audience behaviour including media effects, reception and fandom. Critically explore experiences of the media as audience members, including broad social effects, how our interest in the media is shaped by various institutions and our individual responses to media texts.
Please Note: All students studying at Murdoch University will need to complete the compulsory unit, Murdoch Academic Passport (MAP100), which only takes 2-3 hours to complete online. Find out more: http://goto.murdoch.edu.au/MurdochAcademicPassport.
Assessment in this subject includes an exam. Majority of OUA students will be required to complete their final exam remotely online (Remote eExam) via myMurdoch Learning (LMS), using Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor. You will require a device meeting the minimum standards with a webcam, microphone, and stable internet connection and perform a one-time installation of ‘Respondus LockDown Browser’ using the unique Murdoch link. You are required to complete the mandatory practice quiz before the start of the exam period to ensure a smooth experience on the day. More information regarding Respondus can be found on the Remote eExam page: https://goto.murdoch.edu.au/RemoteExams
- Audience Research Proposal (20%)
- Research Report and Poster Presentation (45%)
- Final Invigilated Exam (Remote eExam using Respondus) (30%)
- Participation and Engagement (5%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
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Entry requirements
Part of a degree
To enrol in this subject you must be accepted into one of the following degrees:
Core
- MUR-COM-DEG-2027 - Bachelor of Communication
Others
To enrol in this subject, you must have passed a minimum of 12 credit points at 100-level (first year level).
Additional requirements
No additional requirements
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
Related degrees
Once you’ve completed this subject it can be credited towards one of the following courses
UndergraduateMUR-COM-DEG