COURSE DESCRIPTION

Investigations into Modern Media: Theory, Practices, and Perspectives

Developing critical thinking skills and exploring identity are key objectives of this introductory course that examines a broad range of media forms (including television, music, video games, print mediums, and film).

“Media literacy” unfolds as functional skills of awareness and analysis within a historical context leading to interpretation and creative practice through meaning-making activities covering contemporary social uses of new technology. Multiple points of view are explored across socio-cultural contexts. Class discussions and presentations are supplemented by invited discussions with industry experts in various subject areas.

Advertising, emerging media, trends shaping content, economic motivations, ethical implications, “stealth media broadcasting,” semiotic meaning, as well as cultural transformation across a changing global landscape will be studied through narrative inquiry and constructivist approaches to learning. Students will be exposed to relevant media technologies (video, digital imagery and music, online social spaces), write short qualitative research papers, present and critique their work and discuss its implications. Individual and group projects are designed to provide practical, hands-on experience to complement students’ theoretical studies evaluated through collaborative analysis. A mixture of thought-provoking media artifacts will be provided and invited throughout the term.