COMM 188A
Variable Topics in Mass Communication and Media Institutions: Narrative of Non-Scripted Television
Description: (Formerly numbered Communication Studies 188A.) Lecture, four hours. Variable topics; consult Schedule of Classes for topics to be offered in specific term. May be repeated for credit with topic change. Letter grading.
Units: 4.0
Units: 4.0
Most Helpful Review
Fall 2021 - I took comm 188a because I want to apply to the communications major, but while this class may be listed under the comm department, it really should be considered a film-tv course. The professor, TA, and all the incredible guest speakers currently work in the entertainment industry, specifically in unscripted/reality television. The first half of the class covers all the narrative elements of reality tv, while the second half covers the logistical, production process, and pitching strategies. The lectures are engaging, the only problem is that they are 3hrs long and at night. Still, it is possible to pay attention with a yerb and a genuine passion for the entertainment industry. There are only 2 eight-page papers that makeup 90% of your grade (40% for the midterm, 50% for the final). However, they can be fun to write, and if you put in the effort you will be rewarded with a good grade. My tip for the papers is to take notes during the lecture and regurgitate everything professor Jusko says with a flair of creativity. The other 10% of your grade is participation, which just means showing up to lecture. The homework is not essential for the class or the papers; only bother doing the readings/screenings if they interest you (some of the episodes are fun to watch). I highly recommend taking this class. The professor, content, and assignments are amazing!
Fall 2021 - I took comm 188a because I want to apply to the communications major, but while this class may be listed under the comm department, it really should be considered a film-tv course. The professor, TA, and all the incredible guest speakers currently work in the entertainment industry, specifically in unscripted/reality television. The first half of the class covers all the narrative elements of reality tv, while the second half covers the logistical, production process, and pitching strategies. The lectures are engaging, the only problem is that they are 3hrs long and at night. Still, it is possible to pay attention with a yerb and a genuine passion for the entertainment industry. There are only 2 eight-page papers that makeup 90% of your grade (40% for the midterm, 50% for the final). However, they can be fun to write, and if you put in the effort you will be rewarded with a good grade. My tip for the papers is to take notes during the lecture and regurgitate everything professor Jusko says with a flair of creativity. The other 10% of your grade is participation, which just means showing up to lecture. The homework is not essential for the class or the papers; only bother doing the readings/screenings if they interest you (some of the episodes are fun to watch). I highly recommend taking this class. The professor, content, and assignments are amazing!