This course explores the different approaches used by scholars to understand the cultural role of television in contemporary North American life. Special attention is paid to the impact of new technologies like colour broadcasting, satellite and cable systems, HDTV and the internet. Topics may include TV genres from sitcoms to soap operas, the rise of reality TV, fatherhood and family values, advertising aesthetics, Saturday morning cartoons, Hockey Night in Canada™, and the ethics of the evening news. Open to students who have completed 45 credit hours, or with permission of the instructor. Students who have already completed MM 3085 for credit may not enrol in MAAC 3085.