Offered at Georgetown only.

What role does the media play in influencing public policy? What impact do negative campaign ads, the blogosphere, and media pundits have on the attitudes and voting behavior of Americans? Media watchdogs contend that a liberal or conservative bias can distort objective reporting. Do blogs and “infotainment” shows need to meet the same journalistic standards traditional news sources attempt to achieve?

In this course, you will learn how all forms of media (TV, radio, newspapers, Internet) influence the political process and the public’s perception of reality. You will learn to evaluate media sources and to think critically about news coverage, as you visit some of Washington D.C.’s most powerful media outlets. Witness firsthand how the “fourth branch of government” helps shape our democracy.

Student-run legislative debates  are the heart of Congressional Workshop, an academic exercise that is part of all classes. This experience serves as a practical demonstration of the academic curriculum. Beginner public speakers and expert debaters enjoy the rational discourse, peer-to-peer learning and witty repartee of JSA debate. As an interactive part of the coursework, participation is graded and constitutes a percentage of final course grades.