LANG 1405
Mediated Me: An Introduction to Digital Literacy
Course Description
You scroll memes, videos, and reels all day - but what are they really doing to how you think and communicate? LANG1405 gives you the skills to find out. Through hands-on tasks built on real issues and experiences, you'll learn to read the digital world critically and speak to it with confidence. As AI and social media reshape work, these are the communication skills employers want - and you'll build them while making work you're proud to share.
Highlights
Make it, don’t just study it.
Don't just analyse digital media - make it. Design a meme or reel, lead real discussions, and produce an influencer-style video on an issue you care about. Theory becomes skills you can show, not just describe.
Every task builds on the last.
Five connected tasks, one journey: define a real issue, make a meme or reel, lead discussions, then craft an influencer video and rationale. Each step powers the next, so your skills and confidence grow across the course.
Skills that outlast the trends.
Forget chasing the app of the moment. You'll master platform-proof skills - multimodal communication, participatory culture, online community - that stay useful as tech changes. Plus a smart take on GenAI: use AI critically while keeping your own authentic voice.
Assessments
Assessment 1: A multimodal influencer style assessment divided into three parts; a short introduction to the topic, a meme or reel about the topic with a rationale describing your process and choices, and an influencer style video on the topic with an accompanying video or written rationale.
Assessment 2: A weekly group online discussion from weeks 5 to 10.
Target Students
Ideal for curious, creative, and reflective students who want to critically explore digital media and enhance their communication skills through the creation and analysis of digital texts like memes, videos, and online discussions.
Learning Experience
Student testimonials
- “I thoroughly enjoyed the class and have indeed learned a great deal from your course. The engaging lectures and class assignments inspired me to explore the field of digital literacy.”
- “[The course] has really intrigued my interest and helped me notice the multimodality elements that exist in real life.”
- “I have learnt so many concepts regarding digital literacy through online and face to face interactions with classmates. The video assignment allows me to practice my editing skills as well, which is a fresh and interesting experience!”