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. Tuesdays, 10 – 12, room 127

Instructor

Dr. Giuliana Sorce

Discussions of queer representation have long become a staple of mainstream media criticism in Europe and North America. In many prominent cases, the question of whether a film or television show depicts a variety of identity categories in an “appropriate” or “progressive” manner is at the center of attention.

In this course, we will, for the most part, try to avoid this kind of question. Instead, we will read some key texts of queer theory in order to engage with a more foundational issue: How do identities such as “straight” or “gay”, “female” or “male” come to be in the first place? And how do visual media co-constitute, question, or subvert these categories?

You do not have to bring any prior knowledge of queer theory into the class, only a willingness to question your own assumptions, and patience for complexity. Some of the texts we will read can seem quite abstract at first, but the goal is to use them as analytical lenses for very non-abstract films and TV shows.

Note: 
This class is part of a pilot program examining the possibilities of teaching with the help of generative AI. Therefore, you will be introduced to, and occasionally interact with (a privacy-optimized version of), ChatGPT.

All teaching and reading in this class will be in English. Thursdays, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., room 206

Instructor

Tobias Kunz, M. A.

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. Mondays, 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., room 206

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. Fridays, 10 – 12, room 121

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. Fridays, 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., room 127

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! On-site: Wednesdays, Oct 25th, Dec 13th and Jan 31st, 6 p.m to 10 p.m., 206

Instructor

Dr. Kiron Patka