This course will look at how digital technologies can be used as a research tool. Various digital media methods will be demonstrated, primarily drawing upon ethnographic and collections-based methodologies. Students will learn to adopt a critical position in their use of digital technologies, analysing the potentials and limitations of these tools. Students will be provided with case studies and visual materials to work with and will also undertake their own digital project.

Advanced technical skills in managing visual media in digital form will be taught. These skills will give students a strong foundation for developing future research projects with visual media components. They will equally be of value in the development of digital media projects in the cultural sector.

The workshop component of the course will be taught on Apple Macintosh computers and students will be expected to be computer-literate. Owning a personal computer with Adobe Design software will be an advantage, but is not essential and access to computer labs will be provided.

Course aims:

On completing this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Develop methodologies for using digital media in analysis.
2. Use digital image manipulation, editing and web development software.
3. Constructively assess the effectiveness their own and others work.
4. Implement ethical practices in the digital realm.

Learning outcomes:

The course aims to develop critical thinking and practical skills in the use of digital media as a research tool, primarily in the area of visual culture research.

Short exercises (20%); Short written paper, 1000-2000 words (20%); Digital media project - practical component, short exegesis 1000-2000 words and oral presentation (50%); Participation and attendance (10%)

workshop/seminar

Courses offered from the Liberal Arts program, specifically those from the Visual Culture Research sub-plan.