The rise of digital media has transformed the nature of our social experience in the 21^st century; the speed with which new forms of connectivity and communication are being incorporated into our everyday lives provides little time for us to consider the social implications. This course introduces the field of digital technologies and media through a sociological lens through various topics, discussions, and experiences. Students will examine the evolution of digital media technologies, and their influence on social interactions, identity formation, and information dissemination. Also, they will present current trends and issues in digital media and its effects on society, participate in blog discussions on various issues how culture and media shape each other, and explore careers in digital media to assist their career plan.

Upon completion of this course, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between digital media and society. They will be equipped with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to analyze and evaluate the effects of digital media on individuals, communities, and broader socio-cultural dynamics.

• Digital Media History and Internet
• Realities and Conspiracies
• Building a Digital Society
• Digital Property and Security
• Identity and Community in the Digital Age
• Mobile Digitalization
• Economies – the dot com boom and bust Politics

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

• Discuss a variety of topics and issues through classroom interaction, oral presentation, and blogging, including our digital society, the socio-technical interface, users and audiences, individual experiences, digital economies, digital authorities, and the shaping of culture and media.
• Apply knowledge of media literacy to various media messages.
• Assemble a binder of material that assists in connecting their career plan to the world of digital media.
• Use various communication channels – both in-person and via the Internet – to identify the best use of each, and to discuss topics related to the Internet and social media.
• Explore topics of interest in digital media to present to their colleagues and how the topic impacts everyday lives and their career choices.
• Discuss issues related to new media, its formats, copyright and plagiarism, and concerns with privacy and digital surveillance and security, and ethical considerations of the online world.
• Recognise the behaviours of their colleagues and businesses in respect to how they receive their news, communicate online, and brand themselves.

• Lecture/presentation
• Discussion
• Individual assignments and research (facilitate)
• Facilitated group work