module specification

SC6062 - 'The Deviant Other' - media representations of crime (2025/26)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2025/26
Module title 'The Deviant Other' - media representations of crime
Module level Honours (06)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Social Sciences and Professions
Total study hours 150
 
105 hours Guided independent study
45 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 100% 40 3000 words essay or 15 minutes oral presentation
Running in 2025/26

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)		 No instances running in the year

Module summary

This module looks at the way crime and deviance is represented in the media and interrogates the reasons behind these representations. The module will focus on different forms of media – both traditional and modern, and examine the way crimes and groups labelled as ‘other’ are presented to the public.

The module aims to:

  1. Focus on how different crimes are represented in the media
  2. Develop an understanding of how ‘deviant others’ are represented in the media
  3. Critically analyse how the media shape perceptions of groups or individuals labelled as ‘other’
  4. Consider the reasons behind the media representations of crime, criminality and deviance
  5. Analyse different forms of media, both factual and fictional

Prior learning requirements

Available for study abroad? YES

Syllabus

This module looks at the way crime and deviance is represented in the media and interrogates the reasons behind these representations. The module will focus on different forms of media – both traditional and modern, and examine the way crimes and groups labelled as ‘other’ are presented to the public. You will have the opportunity to discuss and analyse items such as films, books, documentaries, video games, music videos and news programmes. (LO 1-4).

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

The module will use a range of learning, teaching and delivery methods, including workshops, staff and student lead talks and discussions, blended learning and online sessions. There will be a heavy emphasis on interactive, small group student-centred activities and active participation will be required.

You are expected to attend and engage in all sessions. In addition, you are expected to undertake 6-7 hours independent reading/study per week to develop your knowledge and critical thinking skills. This will often include recommended readings and/or tasks ahead of each session.

The sessions, particularly the assignment workshops, offer the opportunity for reflective learning and time will be allocated for individual and/or group feedback as part of your assessment preparation.

Resources, including reading lists, links to videos, podcasts, websites, will be provided via Weblearn and/or email and you are encouraged to engage in online discussion forums with your peers.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module, you will:

  1. Have an understanding of how different crimes are represented in the media
  2. Critically discuss how criminals and groups labelled as ‘other’ are represented in the media with regards to crime and deviance
  3. Critically analyse how the media shape perceptions of crime and criminality
  4. Conduct critical analyses of a range of media items.

Assessment strategy

You will have a choice of assessment that will allow you to demonstrate a critical understanding of how crime and criminality are represented in the media.
You will have the option of either a written or oral submission (LO 1-4).

Bibliography