Media Arts and Culture

MAAC3405Media & Environment (O) (Cross-Listed: CCS 3405) 3 ch (3C) (W)
This course introduces students to the literature of environmental media studies. The media landscape, from television to video games, has a profound role in shaping how we think about nature, wilderness, and the environment. The news and social media are also important sources of information about environmental issues. In addition to being crucial sources of information, however, the media create many environmental problems, such as e-waste and carbon emissions. This course reflects on the production, distribution, and associated waste of digital media alongside its role in representing the environment and environmental problems. Teaching methods include lectures and seminars. Students have the option of creating an environmental media project, e.g., a media campaign or short documentary, for their final project.