Communication & Culture

Examines communication needs associated with contexts of heightened concern (e.g., crisis, conflict, disasters). Analyzes theories about perception of risk. Explores theories, principles and practices of risk and crisis communication that support individuals, organizations and communities making effective risk/benefit decisions, managing fear and uncertainty, and responding to crisis.

Examines theoretical discussions on social media and their impact on studies of human interactions and introduces current methodological debates in fields such as digital methods, digital humanities and ’big data’. Presents a variety of contemporary tools and techniques to help students navigate and analyse the emerging data landscape and to equip students with basic skills managing analytical tools, data sampling, basic statistics, network analysis, and data visualisation. Immerses students in the latest discussions on methodological development to take advantage of ‘digital trace data’ and computational tools.

Presents an overview of the historical development of theories and approaches to media and cultural studies as they interconnect with communication studies. Considers the meaning and production of culture, the culture industry, and various interpretive practices. Explores how mass media has influenced and been influenced by cultural industries and contextualizes our current digital age in relation to other major advancements in communication history. Drawing on contemporary media and cultural theory, the course investigates how our current digital environment modifies our definitions of privacy and the public, civil society, political participation, and culture through case studies and applied and experiential activities. 

Takes as its premise the political and ideological nature of communication, media and culture. Surveys classic and contemporary sources, themes and debates in the academic communication literature as these relate to disciplinary subfields such as policy, political economy, political communication, technology studies, cultural economics, law and ethics, and as they manifest in the interpersonal, print, broadcast, and telecommunications realms. Learners explore topics ranging from trans-national and state-level concerns to civil society; from electoral politics to those of social movements and countercultures; and from major policy documents and regulatory bodies in Canada and abroad to issues like terrorism and propaganda, privacy and surveillance, digital media and intellectual property that test the capacity of policymakers. 

Responds to current and emerging issues or trends in the professional field of communication and communication studies. Offered by local and visiting scholar practitioners with expertise in the relevant topic. Course topics may include: science communication, crisis communication, ‘new’ new media (the second wave of new media that extends beyond websites and email), journalistic shifts, and political discourse.

Past offering: Communication for Decolonization

This course was designed to enhance skills and capacities by exploring advanced concepts in decolonization—both environmental and human—through the lens of communication. By engaging with diverse perspectives and collaborating with others within and beyond this class, you will not only find inspiration but also deepen your self-awareness and understanding of your place in the world.

1. Colonization as a Continuing Threat: Colonization continues to impact societies in multiple ways, with far-reaching consequences for both the environment and humanity.
2. Decolonization Begins with the Self: The process of decolonization starts with personal and professional reflection.
3. Integrating Multiple Ways of Knowing: Different worldviews and ways of knowing can inform how we communicate and relate to the Earth and its Indigenous peoples.
4. Environmental, Indigenous, and Arts-Based Approaches: These approaches, either individually or combined, provide powerful tools for improving relationships through communication.

Coursework includes:

• Creative and Reflective Assignments: A variety of assignments that include writing, creative expression, reflection, and sharing within the class community.
• Readings and Engagement: Students will engage with works by leading scholars and thinkers in environmental, Indigenous, and arts-based methodologies.
• Weekly Discussions: Participation in both synchronous and asynchronous discussions to deepen understanding and share insights.