| Course Description |
Every day, we encounter news and information through television, online media, and social platforms. These messages shape how we understand politics, public issues, and even each other. This course introduces students to the relationship between media and democracy and explains why media freedom matters for ordinary citizens—not just for politicians or journalists.
The course focuses on how access to information affects people’s ability to make informed choices, participate in public discussions, and hold those in power accountable. Using real-world examples from different countries, students will learn how media can support democracy, as well as how it can be distorted or manipulated.
Through lectures, case studies, and class discussions, students will examine how media environments shape political opinions, civic engagement, and democratic quality. By the end of the course, students will develop practical skills to evaluate news and online information more carefully, think critically about what they consume, and become more informed and responsible citizens in a media-saturated world.
No prior background in political science or media studies is required. This course is suitable for students from all majors.
This course is conducted in English to help students build confidence in expressing ideas and participating in discussions in a global context. For Taiwanese students, developing the ability to engage with the international community is increasingly important, and this course offers a supportive and interactive environment to strengthen those skills.
To ensure that language is never a barrier to learning, students may submit written assignments in Chinese if needed. What matters most in this course is not perfect English, but the quality of your ideas, critical thinking, and active participation.
For international students, the course provides a unique opportunity to engage directly with Taiwanese students, exchange perspectives, and gain deeper insights into Taiwan and its society. In an era shaped by generative AI, meaningful face-to-face discussion and human interaction are more valuable than ever—and this course is designed to create exactly that kind of learning experience.
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