Question 1

Which of the following did not originate as an online-only media outlet or news aggregator?

Accepted Answer

The National Post is a Canadian newspaper that originated as a print publication before expanding its presence online.

Question 2

At the federal level, members of the press gallery:

Accepted Answer

Members of the press gallery at the federal level require accreditation from governments to have access to certain areas and information, ensuring they meet specific criteria to report on governmental affairs.

Question 3

According to political communications theory, framing:

Accepted Answer

Framing is a concept in political communications theory that refers to the way issues are presented to the public by both the media and politicians, which can be done either deliberately or subconsciously. It can also influence the inclusiveness of the public sphere, including for specific groups such as women, by shaping the discourse in ways that may include or exclude them.

Question 4

Which of the following terms refers to the use of information communication technologies to deliver public programs and services?

Accepted Answer

E-government refers to the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) by government bodies to deliver public services, improve managerial effectiveness, and promote democratic values. It encompasses a wide range of activities, from digital service delivery to online tax filing and e-voting.

Question 5

What is the primary reason e-democracy remains underdeveloped in Canada?

Accepted Answer

The primary reason e-democracy remains underdeveloped in Canada is due to a general reluctance to invite public feedback on public policy. This reluctance can stem from concerns over managing and incorporating a large volume of feedback, potential for increased criticism, or the challenge of ensuring that the feedback process is inclusive and representative.

Question 6

A ______ is an authorized and orchestrated release of political information by a high ranking official, while a ______ is an unauthorized and potentially damaging release of information by a whistleblower or disgruntled employee.

Accepted Answer

A trial balloon is a deliberate release of information to gauge public reaction, while a leak is an unauthorized release of confidential information.

Question 7

The sponsorship scandal involved:

Accepted Answer

The sponsorship scandal, also known as "AdScam," involved federal advertising funds in Canada being funneled to Liberal Party-aligned advertising firms for little or no work. This scandal highlighted issues of corruption and misuse of public funds within the federal government.

Question 8

A political party's brand:

Accepted Answer

A political party's brand encompasses all elements that contribute to the dominant mental image of the party, including its name, logo, colors, ideology, and more. This comprehensive view goes beyond just visual identity or ideology, capturing the overall perception and reputation of the party in the public's mind.

Question 9

Which of the following is a campaign tactic associated with articulation?

Accepted Answer

Articulation involves clearly expressing and emphasizing certain issues or policies, which aligns with the tactic of selective emphasis.

Question 10

Which of the following is a dog whistle term frequently used by politicians on the Canadian left?

Accepted Answer

"Working families" is often used by politicians on the Canadian left to signal support for policies that benefit average, often lower to middle-income, households without explicitly stating so. This term is designed to resonate with a broad audience by evoking a sense of collective struggle and solidarity among ordinary people.

Question 11

At the time of Confederation, the political press consisted of partisan newspapers that gained income from printing government advertisements and official notices.

Accepted Answer

At the time of Confederation, newspapers were indeed partisan and often relied on income from printing government advertisements and official notices, which helped sustain their operations.

Question 12

Since its founding, the Toronto Star has been known to espouse conservative views, particularly in its editorial content, while Postmedia sources, such as the National Post, tend to back left-wing parties like the Liberals and NDP.

Accepted Answer

The Toronto Star has a history of liberal-leaning editorial stances, often supporting the Liberal Party or progressive causes, while Postmedia sources, including the National Post, are generally known for conservative viewpoints, frequently endorsing conservative parties or policies.

Question 13

Newspapers adjusted to the onset of radio in the 1920s by becoming the authoritative source for more in depth forms of political journalism.

Accepted Answer

Newspapers adapted to the competition from radio by focusing on providing more detailed and analytical forms of journalism, including in-depth political reporting, which radio's brief news segments couldn't match.

Question 14

The horse-race frame reduces everything that political actors do to a conversation about their core values and beliefs.

Accepted Answer

The horse-race frame in journalism primarily focuses on who is winning or losing in politics, emphasizing polling data, public perception, and competition, rather than a deep dive into the candidates' core values and beliefs.

Question 15

In Canadian politics, what appear to be spontaneous and authentic social media posts by politicians are often drafted by communications professionals and vetted by senior officials.

Accepted Answer

Many politicians use communications professionals to craft their social media messages to ensure they are effective and align with their political strategy, even if the posts are designed to appear spontaneous and authentic.

Question 16

The CBC generates almost all of its revenue from government advertising.

Accepted Answer

The CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) generates revenue from multiple sources, including government funding, advertising revenue (from both government and commercial sources), and other sources such as content sales and subscriptions.

Question 17

As a mature liberal democracy, political information in Canada is free of biases.

Accepted Answer

In Canada, as in any country, media outlets, politicians, and interest groups can exhibit biases, influencing the presentation and perception of political information.

Question 18

Women leaders in Canada are more likely than their male counterparts to have their private lives examined by media.

Accepted Answer

Women in leadership positions, including those in Canada, often face greater scrutiny regarding their private lives from the media compared to their male counterparts. This phenomenon is part of broader societal gender biases and stereotypes that tend to evaluate women based on personal or family life, whereas men are more often judged by their professional accomplishments.

Question 19

Canada's traditional media are under significant pressure from the growing popularity of Internet-based digital media.

Accepted Answer

Traditional media in Canada, like in many other countries, are facing challenges and pressures due to the rapid growth and popularity of Internet-based digital media, which offer more diverse and accessible content.

Question 20

Canadian politicians are obligated by the freedom of the press to answer all journalists' questions.

Accepted Answer

Canadian politicians are not legally obligated to answer all journalists' questions; they have the discretion to choose which questions they respond to. Freedom of the press guarantees journalists the right to ask questions and publish news, but it does not compel politicians to respond.

Quiz 11: Media and Communication