Time Schedule:
Jane A. Van Galen
BIS 295
Bothell Campus
Links academic study to experiential and community-based learning conducted at on- or off-campus sites. Topics and sites may vary with instructor.
Class description
Autumn 2009. In this course, students will examine the potential of digital "participatory media" for capturing and disseminating stories within communities. In producing their own multi-media projects and in partnering with community groups to create such projects as digital stories, podcasts, interactive maps, and annotated photo set, students will explore the intersections of voice, media, power, and meaning making among groups who otherwise have limited access to digital media. In addition to in-class and on-line course time, students will work directly with a community group on designing and creating digital projects.
Student learning goals
Students will learn video and audio editing tools and Web 2.0 tools that support individual and community participation in mediated public discourse
Students will learn how new mediated communication is shaping public discourse, political deliberations, identity construction, and community building.
Students will identify strengths and weaknesses in the training models and project designs of community-based digital production projects around the globe.
General method of instruction
In-class tutorials on multi-media projects. On-line discussions. Partnership (as part of student teams) with a community agency for production of a community digital project.
Recommended preparation
No prior technology experience in multi-media work is necessary, as the course is built around models for teaching technology to those with limited access to digital tools.
Class assignments and grading
Students will 1. produce several individual and group digital projects. 2. keep an on-line learning log and participate in on-line discussion of course readings and media. 3. design and implement a multi-media project in a community setting 4. evaluate the success of this project from the perspective of community members.
Rubrics will be provided for all assignments outlining criteria for grading. Rubrics will specify skills that must be demonstrated in course projects as well as criteria for evaluating student understanding of the place of participatory media in shaping public life.
