Internet Cultures: Theory And Practice

Course Code: MMAMCC_29

Masters Level Module

The ability to understand and work with blogs, social networking software, virtual worlds and other online spaces (previously known as "web 2.0" and now sometimes gathered under the label "Social media") is becoming a key issue for many professionals, from teachers and lecturers to a range of other occupations. This module will introduce you to theories of Internet culture through practical engagement with blogging and other online spaces and allow you to investigate critically the arguments around its role in formal and informal learning. For all participants, the course will enable an understanding of contemporary culture and personal agency in a medium which is expanding into every facet of contemporary living. For those working as teachers or youth workers the course provides space in which to engage with the world in which very many of their pupils or clients will be living and learning outside of formal settings. There are also professional development opportunities for participants who are publishing, maintaining and/or contributing to school and college-based websites. Theoretical approaches to understanding the new media and their potential are also important. On this module you will be introduced to some of the key theories and debates, which are concerned with online social software. You will also engage in debate about the place and purpose of the new forms of communication in our societies and a variety of approaches to the analysis of such communication forms. This combination of theory and practice is designed to provide, at master's level, the basis for professional and academic development. The course can be taken on its own, as part of the Institute of Education's MA in Media, Culture and Education (PMM9_MCC9IM), or as a 30 credit optional module on many of the IOE's MAs.

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