Introduction to Communication Science

Introduction to Communication Science

Introduction to Communication Science explores some of the basic theories, models and concepts from the fields of mass, interpersonal and intrapersonal communication. The course begins with a consideration of several basic models, subsequently progressing to the history of communication theory, linear effect-oriented theories, the reception approach and, finally, exploring theories on the production and reinforcement of culture through communication.

Upon completion of this course, students should:
• have a knowledge of the history and development of communication science;
• have a knowledge of the dominant theoretical approaches within communication science;
• have a knowledge and understanding of the most important models and concepts in this field.

In this course, we look at how and why communication evolved as a science and reflect on today’s dominant paradigms. The course also extends beyond the boundaries of communication science itself, exploring dimensions of history, sociology and psychology. Join our class, together with people all over the world.
We hope you will join us on Wednesday, 20 February.

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About the lecturer

After completing his Master's degrees in Classical History and Communication Science at the UvA (2002 and 2003, respectively), Dr. Rutger de Graaf first worked as a market researcher, applying scientific methods of media analysis in a commercial environment.

In 2005 he began doctoral research on the rise of the newspaper in the nineteenth century and subsequent decline of the pamphlet (Utrecht University, 2005-2009). His doctoral thesis (in Dutch) was published in 2010 by Prometheus/Bert Bakker under the title Journalistiek in beweging (‘Journalism in motion’).
After receiving his doctorate, Dr. de Graaf was appointed as a lecturer at the UvA’s department of Communication Science, where he teaches courses in Intensive Communication Science, Ethics and Communication Theory & Consultancy.

‘I have a deep and abiding interest in communication: its theory, science, history and practical applications. To comprehend the different facets of communication, it is necessary to understand and use a variety of quantitative and qualitative research methods, such as in-depth interviewing, audience surveys, rhetorical analysis and (automated) frame analysis.’

Course syllabus

Each week of the course, a video lecture will be placed in the online environment of our MOOC (eight in total). After completing each video unit, you will be asked to answer several multiple choice questions related to the lecture content. 

A three-minute MOOC section only gives us time to outline a topic in broad strokes. We have therefore created a ‘Little box of nuance’ feature, in which we will add additional information, indicate when scientists have differing opinions on an issue and suggestions for further reading. If you would like to propose an additional topic, article or anecdote that you think should be included here, please feel free to share it.

The course includes an interactive forum, designed to enable students to actively participate. Visit the forum and make your contribution by opening a discussion on a particular topic or joining one of the existing discussions. We will also contribute by posting answers to recurring questions. You can also use this forum to give any constructive feedback you might have on course. That way, you can help me to learn and improve!

About the study programmes

The Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in Communication Science are offered by the College and Graduate School of Communication, which are located in the centre of Amsterdam.

The schools are dynamic, multifaceted institutions marked by high academic standards, an international atmosphere, and a vibrant academic community. The programmes were ranked highest in Europe in the field of Communication Science by the by QS World Universities Ranking 2012.

Students graduated at the Schools have become professionals in media, marketing communications, corporate communication, political communication, journalism, or media entertainment. The two-year Research Master's programme is an excellent preparation for a PhD programme.

Many of the programme's lecturers are researchers at the Amsterdam School of Communications Research (ASCoR). ASCoR is the main research facility for communication science in the Netherlands and one of the largest in the world.

For more information about the Master’s programmes in Communication Science, please have a look at the website.
For more information about the (Dutch) Bachelor’s programme in Communication Science, please have a look at the website