f&dm 20c | introduction to digital media

components & requirements

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components & requirements

lectures

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lectures/ demos

Each class session will combine lecture, demos, screenings, and discussion. The lectures will provide background on the day’s topic, offer analysis of digital media material, examine ideas from the readings, and extend those ideas beyond the readings. The screenings/demos will be incorporated into the lectures and include video, web materials, DVDs, computer games, and CD-ROMs.

Discussion sections/labs are a vital component of the class, and they allow you to explore the concepts raised in the readings and lectures and engage in aspects of digital media. Attendance in discussion sections is mandatory; three missed sections will constitute failure in the course. Active participation will be an important element in your grade and narrative evaluation. The TAs will lead the sections, assess and comment on all written work and exams, and draft the narrative evaluations under the professor's supervision. There will also be an on-line component to the discussion section.

There is no textbook for this course. All the course readings are available on-line: either on the web, as pdf files on the department server (linkable from the course web-page) or through the library's electronic reserve (e-res) system. The readings offer a number of disciplinary perspectives into digital media. Because they are integral to the lecture material, you need to complete all readings for the week by Tuesday's class. To access the readings on e-res, click on "Electronic Reserves and Course Materials," then search by either department or instructor. The password is film20c. All pdf and e-res readings will also be placed on regular (hard copy) reserves at McHenry Library.

>a web site analysis (10%)
>participation in the class discussion board (10%)
>a 3-4 page actor-network analysis essay (15%)
>a final 5-6 page paper (20%)
>a midterm exam, given during the 5th week of class (20%)
>a final exam, Wed., Dec. 8, 12-14:00, Oakes 105 (20%)
>participation and attendance in discussion section (5%)

All assignments must be completed to pass the course. Specific guidelines will be provided later.

Late assignments will not be accepted; missed exams will not be rescheduled