CoursesNetworked Communities and Civic Engagement
WRIT 0021 - 308

Networked Communities and Civic Engagement

For years, marketers, CEOs, online journalists, and communication researchers have described digital technology as steadily eroding our physical place. Some celebrate our ability to keep up with family and friends, or join virtual communities regardless of the distance. Others warn of isolation, avatar only dialogues, a decline in civic participation and a recognition of others.

Instructor(s)
  • Patrick Wehner
Semester

Fall 2023

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Monday / Wednesday, 8:30 AM – 10:15 AM

In this critical writing seminar, we will be focusing on online addresses and digital mail versus physical streets, roads, signs, expressions, and interactions. How could you really understand the surroundings that other people know and operate within? How can we listen and use physical and online communication as means to promote working together? Our course will commence with a close reading of Smart Cities by Germaine Halegoua, after which students will branch off into their selected research topic in online communication, civic movements, digital advertisements, or community Google maps. The course will culminate in two public facing research projects, a white paper and a public opinion piece.

Note: This is an SNF Paideia designated writing seminar, designed to examine and encourage dialogue across differences. Students and faculty participating in the Paideia writing seminar cluster will have an opportunity to meet once a month for dinner, dialogue, and a keynote speaker or facilitator, as well as engage in other cross seminar community building activities. SNF Paideia designated courses are noted on student transcripts.

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