COMM 386Telecommunications History

3 credits · Communications · Penn State

Historical development of telecommunications systems in the United States, including telegraph, telephone, radio, television, and the internet. COMM 386 Telecommunications History (3) Telecommunications History examines the development of electric and electronic communication systems in the United States within their economic, political, social and cultural contexts. Students will look at the origins and growth of communications systems and how those systems arise from and are constrained by existing social conditions. The evolution and impact of the telegraph, telephone, radio, television and Internet systems and industries will be among major topics addressed. In the process of examining the evolution of specific industries, students will be exposed to broader theories of technology and social chance. As a 300-level course, students will be expected to acquire modest skills in historical research, including library, Internet and some original research such as oral histories.