Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/olympic-games
The Olympic Games are more than just athletic prowess; they are a global media phenomenon. Coursera’s course, ‘The Olympic Games and the Media,’ offers a fascinating deep dive into the intricate relationship between this monumental sporting event and the communication strategies that surround it. I recently completed this course, and it provided a comprehensive understanding of how the Olympics are produced, broadcast, and consumed by a worldwide audience.
The syllabus is thoughtfully structured, beginning with the historical and cultural context of the Games in Week 1. This sets a strong foundation, exploring how the Olympics evolved and their significance in different eras. Week 2 delves into the core of media’s role, examining television production, programming, and the historical ties between media and the Olympics. It was particularly insightful to learn about the language of television and its impact on how we perceive the Games.
Week 3 focuses on the intense media activity *during* the Games. This section covers crucial aspects like TV production, scheduling, media services, and the fascinating process of how media shapes Olympic heroes. The analysis of Olympic ceremonies as a symbolic media element was also a highlight.
The course then pivots to the digital age in Week 4, exploring ‘Olympic New Media.’ This was a highly relevant module, discussing social media’s specific rules, concepts like ‘crosspollination’ and ‘engagement,’ and how these platforms are integrated and managed within the Olympic ecosystem. It’s clear that social media is no longer an afterthought but a central pillar of Olympic communication.
Finally, Week 5 tackles the business side of the Games with ‘Sponsorship and TV Rights Management.’ This week provided valuable insights into Olympic marketing, sponsorship strategies, and the complex world of managing television rights – essentially, how the powerful Olympic brand is cultivated and maintained.
Overall, ‘The Olympic Games and the Media’ is an excellent course for anyone interested in sports management, media studies, marketing, or simply understanding the global phenomenon that is the Olympic Games. The blend of historical context, media analysis, and modern digital strategies makes it a well-rounded and engaging learning experience. I highly recommend it.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/olympic-games