Communication and Technology
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| INCM1032 | School of International Communications | 1 | 20 | Autumn China |
- Code
- INCM1032
- School
- School of International Communications
- Level
- 1
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn China
Summary
This module takes a detailed look at debates surrounding the impact of new information and communications technologies upon processes of communication during different historical periods and contexts. Particular attention will be paid to the social, ethical and political implications of newer communication technologies adoption as well as some of the expected and unexpected consequences. The module will focus on concepts such as Power, Assemblage, Transmedia, and Participatory Culture, investigating how these theories apply to various industry contexts, including their influence on the shaping of communication forms and practices.
Please note: This module is assessed at the end of Autumn semester. First sit/ Re-sit exams are scheduled normally in the summer and can take the same form as the missing/ failed component of the assessment (exam, essay etc.) or other form, as decided by the School.
Target Students
BA students in International Communications and related programmes at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China. There is a limited number of places on this module. Students are reminded that enrolments which are not agreed by the Offering School in advance may be cancelled without notice.
Classes
- One 1-hour workshop each week for 10 weeks
- One 1-hour-30-minute seminar each week for 10 weeks
- One 1-hour-30-minute lecture each week for 10 weeks
Assessment
- 50% Project 1: Equivalent 2,000 words + 1,000 words
- 50% Coursework 1: 2500 words
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
To cultivate an expanded understanding of technology, this module explores how it impacts or becomes impacted by the individuals, societies, and cultures it forms articulations with. The education aims include imparting an understanding of the historical evolution and contemporary forms of information and communications technologies; providing a foundation and critical understanding of the role, impact, affect, and effect of technologies on communication and culture, including the notions of Power and Assemblage; engaging with the everyday use of communication technologies and guiding students to critically reflect on the technological assemblages of which they are part; reflecting on how we are networked into communication technologies that influence aspects like friendships, e-commerce, work, power, politics, and more; promoting practical and heuristic modes of learning through group work; using creative practice-based media projects as a route to better understanding critical concepts and theories; and developing analytical and conceptual skills in writing on theoretical and substantive issues concerned with communication and technology.Learning Outcomes
- To understand the key social forces which have shaped the emergence of different communication technologies.
- To learn theories and concepts that can be employed to critically assess the gains and losses associated with use and development of particular communication technologies
- To comprehend how technology is embedded within different political, social and economic frameworks.
- To identify and assess the impact of different technologies upon historical and contemporary cultures
- To understand a broad range of inter-disciplinary arguments surrounding the role and impact of different technologies of communication
- Develop an ability to apply particular models and theories to a wide range of examples and practices
- Develop transferable creative and critical skills
Transferable Skills
- By the end of the students you will develop:
- an increased ability to construct and defend a coherent and well-researched argument
- an increased ability to understand theories and concepts
- an increased ability to communicate ideas effectively both in writing and speech
- an increased ability to engage in creative, critical and constructive interactions with peers and workmates
- an increased ability to engage in independent, creative and reflective learning
- an increased ability to time manage and exercise general organizational skills.
Conveners
- Dr Richard Frenneaux