124260 KO Critical Media Analysis (2013S)

This course aims to prepare students for a critical reading and analysis of cultural and media studies texts, with a focus on key fashion theories (developing media literacy); to understand the processes within the fashion system and its social and economic significance; and provide tools, methods and concepts for an understanding of how fashion trends emerge historically and at present in the age of information technology and mobile media.
Another central goal is an understanding of key concepts and theories of blog cultures within the field of new media studies through familiarization of select readings. The course will encourage students to develop critical and analytical awareness of cultural and social issues found in the online realms. Additionally, this course will provide ways of utilizing research methods taken from virtual ethnography, to apply for individual research projects and relevant cultural and media studies texts.