Modern Languages and Cultures
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title RESEARCHING DIGITAL CULTURES IN THE AMERICAS
Code HISP348
Coordinator Professor NR Thornton
Languages, Cultures and Film
N.Thornton@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2023-24 Level 6 FHEQ First Semester 15

Pre-requisites before taking this module (other modules and/or general educational/academic requirements):
 

Modules for which this module is a pre-requisite:
 

Co-requisite modules:
 

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours           22

 22
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 128
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
There is a resit opportunity This will be marked anonymously Standard UoL penalties will apply.  0    25       
There is a resit opportunity This will be marked anonymously Standard UoL penalties will apply.  0    50       
There is a resit opportunity This will be marked anonymously Standard UoL penalties will apply.  0    25       

Aims

To gain an understanding of the theory and methodologies of research digital cultures. Using content created in the Americas it takes a decolonising and intersectional approach to understanding the uneven and broad uptake of digital creativity and consider how these can be analysed.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Show an awareness of the key theoretical and conceptual debates on the creation and distribution of non mainstream moving and still images.

(LO2) Demonstrate an applied knowledge of the wider historical context in which non mainstream moving and still images circulate.

(LO3) Apply theoretical approaches or critical secondary literature to the analysis of non mainstream moving and still images.

(LO4) Successfully apply close textual analysis of a range of material produced by non mainstream creators.

(LO5) Develop critical thinking skills in the analysis of digital cultures and online creativity.

(S1) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills – oral

(S2) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills - written

(S3) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Academic writing (inc. referencing skills)

(S4) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Influencing skills – argumentation

(S5) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Communicating for audience

(S6) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Media analysis

(S7) Critical thinking and problem solving - Critical analysis

(S8) Critical thinking and problem solving - Evaluation

(S9) Information skills - Critical reading

(S10) Skills in using technology - Online communications skills

Teaching and Learning Strategies

The majority of teaching will be delivered face-to-face on campus. Online delivery will be used to complement the on-campus delivery and where technology affords a better learning experience.

This module will be taught using a combination of lectures and worshops. The lectures will introduce key concepts and theoretical debates within the study of archives, Internet and Film Studies. The workshops will consolidate the material taught in the lectures, as well as instruct and equip you with the skills to apply these concepts to close readings of film texts and online artefacts. The lectures and workshops will be supplemented with a number of online activities and resources which will further support collaborative learning.

Syllabus
 

Topics covered during the module may include:

The evolution of the self online and off;

The self, the Other, and authenticity;

An introduction to celebrity, stardom, and influencers;

The Amateur and Professional;

Platforms and their affordances;

An introduction to user generated content including vidding and fandom;

Defining and analysing memes and mash-ups;

Online eco-systems;

An introduction to geo-blocking and filter bubbles;

An analysis of the politics of appropriation.

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.