Media Studies classes for exchange students

Course Summary

Digital Media Theory is designed to survey the major theoretical approaches to digital media with a focus on its role in society. We will survey theories of social media and digital platforms, investigate researchers’ optimism and pessimism with respect to digitalization, examine how communities and networks are forged online, look into the emotions and affect in online communication, showcase how platforms can be used as spaces for activism and empowerment, discuss the key role of algorithms and datafication, and critically examine power structures in the global digital economy.
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to understand digital media theorizing; describe digital media affordances using concrete theories and examples; critically evaluate digital media technologies and uses; and assess the role of digital media communication as a future media professional.

Instructor

Dr. Giuliana Sorce

Course Summary

The aim of this course is to familiarize students with theories and methods of the digital humanities and how they can be used for studying film. Digital humanities is a broad term that refers to the application of digital tools in various disciplines of the humanities, including film studies. We will trace some of the main lines of thought and a few of the most current approaches, such as the use of databases, geodata, and machine learning. In class, we will examine several digital humanities projects and discuss their methods. A special focus will be put on the role of visualizations in analyzing large amounts of data.

Instructor

Dr. Erwin Feyersinger

Claudius Stemmler

Course Summary

This in-depth course offers an exploration of animation history. We’ll delve into evolution of the art form, from its pre-film origins to contemporary practices. Through lectures, screenings, and discussion, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of animation techniques, explore diverse international styles, and examine the work of key figures who shaped the field. This course is ideal for students seeking a foundational knowledge of animation history and theory.

Instructor

Naima Alam

Course Summary

The goal of this practical seminar (Lehrredaktion) is to tackle the emerging opportunities, dangers, and intricacies of tools and technologies powered by artificial intelligence in journalism - whether it is their utilization in content curation or in the writing process. In exploring the current technological possibilities, ethical considerations will be a crucial aspect of our discussions, addressing issues such as bias in algorithms, accountability, and the potential impact on journalistic integrity. The seminar will do so by creating an issue of a digital magazine (“Cogito”), directly comparing the capabilities of AI generated copy with journalistic work. 

Instructor

Marcel Lemmes

Course Summary

The seminar serves to explore and adopt aesthetic techniques for the design of radio pieces, radio shows and podcasts.You will get to know the basic building blocks of auditory production – voice, music, noise, ambiance, and silence – and explore the creative diversity of these building blocks and what functions they serve in auditory communication.

A large part of the seminar is made up by online learning materials consisting of video, audio and written guidance. At the end of each unit you will produce a small audio piece, and at the end of seminar you will finally sum up what you have learned in a 3-minute piece in which you develop your own sonic ideas.

In 3 extended on-site meetings throughout the semester, we will do hands-on training, clarify open questions, and discuss your sound ideas. While the seminar focuses on the aesthetics of German radio/audio culture, we might be able to draw comparison to radio and podcast formats from different countries.
Important: Even though our first on-site meeting won’t take place before some time into the semester, the actual seminar starts in week 1 with online lectures and assignments! Check your email for onboarding information!

Instructor

Dr. Kiron Patka