COM-3440: Critical Analysis of Digital Media

We live in a world of unprecedented communication capabilities: a phone is a global podium, one single tweet can trigger masses, and artificial intelligence is widely used to curate ideas that mirror our individual beliefs right back to us. How did these happen? What is our role as media audience and citizens in this landscape of enticements? Can we spot bias at all, and if so, how is it ultimately constructed? What can be learned from it? The course offers students theoretical and methodological tools to discern the interactive media practices and communication technologies characteristic of late capitalism, and to curb their relentless, sophisticated attempts to make choices for us. To address these, we will examine relevant frameworks drawn from the interdisciplinary, postcolonial field of Cultural Studies, particularly its take on Sociology of Media, Critical Journalism, Propaganda Studies, and Semiotics (analysis of meaning-making processes). Through class discussion, readings and immersive tasks, we will look critically at the distinctive systems embedded in the production, distribution and consumption of contemporary media experiences. Based on these, we will generate a collaborative toolbox of practical strategies to gain agency over the insidious impact that digitally networked media have on our lives.
Min. Credits: 1.0 Max Credits: 4.0
Credit Basis: Quarter credit
Location(s): Antioch Univ Los Angeles
Method(s): Classroom,Online Meeting (synchronous),Online (asynchronous)
Faculty Consent Required: N
Program Approval Required: N
Course Type Liberal Arts, Science & Social Science

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COM-3440: Critical Analysis of Digital Media