Starting with a visual approach to media as part of a critical discussion of recent theories of culture and media in the United States the course we will subsequently explore and evaluate current trends of the American (new) media landscape as well as the cultural contexts that they are grounded in. In an attempt to enhance the skills of reading media the course will introduce approaches to media analysis before discussing selected visual and digital representations in terms of themes and narrative strategies. Since the course will use digital media as an important tool for the discussion inside and outside of the classroom participants are required to demonstrate basic computer literacy. Course requirements include active class preparation and participation as well as one in-class presentation. More detailed information on the syllabus and bibliography will be available on the American Studies homepage at the beginning of April. |
