The digital sphere has given voice and meeting spaces to communities and activist groups, enabling social action, art and change. You will learn to critically examine social media and digital platforms such as photo and video sharing apps, social networking apps, livestreaming services, dating apps, etc. inorder to understand the diversity and complexity of contemporary media. The module will deepen your theoretical understanding of concepts such as participatory and collaborative culture, sharing economies, democracy, technology and surveillance. You will learn to sustain a critical analysis and argument about how social media and digital platforms sit at the intersection of culture, politics, economics, personal expression and art making practices in the digital age. You will apply this theoretical understanding in a portfolio of practical exercises. This module provides a crucial overview of the many important roles of social media and digital platforms for aspiring media professionals.
LecSem: 16 hours
Workshop: 16 hours
Main Assessment Methods:
Extended writing.
Assessment Details: Essay (1500 words). Worth 50%.
Portfolio.
Assessment Details: Series of practical tasks. 1500 words (or equivalent). Worth 50%.
Reassessment Method:
Like-for-like
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices. The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages. https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1) Identify different forms of social media and digital platforms, as they have emerged historically and in relation to social, cultural and technological change.
2) Interpret the interrelationships of technological and social change.
3) Explain a range of attitudes and values arising from the complexity and diversity of contemporary media, culture and society.
4) Critically engage with major thinkers and debates around social media and digital platforms.
5) Carry out various forms of research for different outputs, involving sustained independent and critical enquiry.
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