This survey course playfully explores the swiftly developing world of digital media. Given that students will be familiar with many forms of digital media, this course endeavours to challenge the underlying assumptions of our digital media usage and consumption, with the goal of a richer understanding of how to most effectively utilize it in both professional and personal settings. The course will touch upon a number of current digital media topics, including the battle of social media platforms X and BlueSky, the steady decline of platforms such as Facebook, the boom and collapse of the NFT/crypto market, the rise of games and the spread of (toxic) gaming culture, blogging & memes as new forms of communication, streaming (both to audiences and in isolation), and the onset of AI.
- Challenge students' assumptions about the complex world of digital media.
- Reflect upon what is fake and what is authentic in an environment of ceaseless virtual production.
- Channel the logic of the course into developing and upgrading students' digital media creative skillsets.
There will be afternoon classes every week with MANDATORY ATTENDANCE. Time will be split in class between interactive lectures and weekly activities/workshops that will allow students to collect valuable feedback while at the same time challenging them to express themselves in unexpected ways, testing the limits of what social media allows.
Assignments & Readings: Each week there will be mandatory assignments that students need to prepare to bring to class, as well as mandatory readings that will contextualise the discussion. These assignments will subsequently culminate into a complete digital portfolio.
Moodle: The course Moodle site is the main portal for your individual learning through the semester. You will also upload your written assignments on Moodle (via Turnitin).
Participation 10%
Weekly assignments 30%
Final digital portfolio 30%
Final critical reflection 30%