American Television Programming

This course offers a historical and critical survey of the popular program forms in American broadcasting. Topics include the influence of other dramatic arts on television; the role of entertainment programming in the business and social history of American broadcasting; the changing economics of program production, scheduling, and audience research; and the problem of creative authorship in American television. American commercial television will be considered alongside alternative programming from non-commercial and foreign sources. Emphasis is placed on extensive written reports based on readings, lectures, and screenings.