Digital Media

To study the media is to become aware of its potential effect upon us. It is to learn to become critical about the way the world is represented to us through the media and to question the ‘messages’ that are presented. It is about becoming equipped with a set of practical skills so that we not only remain consumers of what the media has to offer, but also learn to become active producers of our own messages. We must study the media because the media studies us!

Course details

You will complete six units, three mandatory and three optional units.

You will study the following mandatory units:
• Unit 1: Media products and audiences
• Unit 2: Pre-production and planning
• Unit 3: Create a media product

These units will give you an understanding of how different media institutions operate to create products that appeal to specific target audiences. You will gain knowledge and understanding of the pre-production, planning and production processes and go on to create a media product. Through this you will also develop transferable skills such as planning, communication, adaptability and leadership.

The optional units provide you with the opportunity to broaden your knowledge, understanding and skills in key areas such as, Social media and globalisation, Journalism and the news industry or Advertising media.

Entry Requirements
Four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, one of which must be English. A high level of commitment to the subject is essential.

Course assessment
There is continuous internal assessment throughout the course.

Formal assessment will take place at the end of Year 1; In January and June of Year 2. 

Units 1 and 2 are externally set examinations.

The remaining units are internally assessed and externally moderated.