An introduction to the multi-disciplinary nature of media studies including an exploration of the definitions of society, culture, the self, as well as an historical approach to human communications. Explores the impact of technological change on culture, and the latest developments in information technologies (Internet, newsgroups, on-line publishing, e-mail). (3:0:0)
Index of MEDI courses
Explores the interdependence of contemporary popular culture and mass media, and develops critical thinking skills for assessing the impact of media on culture. May focus on a particular medium or special topic. Assignments may include media other than print. This course is offered as a special collaboration with ENGL 115 F10N20 and S11N01.
An exploration of emerging digital technologies and their impact on culture, education, commerce, politics and society. Development of hands-on skills in the use of e-mail, newsgroups, web-site authoring, and multimedia. Familiarity with computing applications is an asset. Note: Some sections of this course may be offered on-line. (1:0:2)
This course examines how selected media--mainly newspapers, magazines, television, and film--identify and address their audiences to represent significant social constructions: gender, ethnicity, and class. Participants will be challenged to distinguish between the representations of social issues in the media and their social realities.
An examination of the strategies and ideologies in promotional communications: advertising, public relations, political and public service announcements, billboards, news reporting, infomercials, popular performance art, and propaganda. Note: Some sections of this course may be offered on-line. (2:0:1)
An examination of television as a medium of communication and an element of culture. In a given year, the focus of the course may be on television production and management in addition to an analysis of television's impact on culture. (3:0:0)
An introduction to the interdisciplinary study of videogames, examining their cultural, educational, and social functions within contemporary settings. By playing, analyzing, and theorizing about videogames, we will examine debates surrounding how they function within contemporary social contexts. Readings will include contemporary videogame theory and interaction with contemporary commercial videogames. (2:1:0)
An exploration of the media, its control and ownership, from a global perspective. Topics include globalization; the public sphere; international trade agreements and regulatory bodies (WTO, IMF, etc.); internet culture; patterns of ownership, control and monopolization; alternative media; cultural imperialism; racism, assimilation and creolization. (3:0:0)
An exploration of the history of journalism with an emphasis on the evolution of print, photography, radio, film, television, and the internet as media for the mass dissemination of news, information, and opinion. Students also consider questions of journalistic style and ethics. (3:0:0)
A focus on film as medium. Through an examination of films about film-making, students explore the narrative, documentary, and propagandistic powers of film. (3:0:0)
