Module Code - Title:
CS4031
-
INTRODUCTION TO DIGITAL MEDIA
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
To introduce students to some of the seminal developments in technology and to provide them with a historical perspective on how these developments have impacted on human development, and to support students in establishing their own online portfolios.
Syllabus:
The module provides an overview of the conceptual development of computers, communication networks and computer media, followed by a discussion of concepts relevant for digital content creation, such as copyright, Creative Commons, Open Source Software and using AI for generating content. Application domains discussed will include: personal computing, social media, education, cultural heritage, healthcare, digital fabrication and digital platforms. The creation of an individual online portfolio will give the students the opportunity to become digital media creators, curate and publish their own work, as well as reflect on their learning process.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to: 1. Assess the influence of technology on human cognition and activity. 2. Determine the accuracy, relevance and authenticity of information sources. 3. Demonstrate an understanding of copyright in the context of various types of digital media resources. 5. Search for information on specific topics, integrate information and context and produce digital content using various media and correct citations. 6. Select, research and summarize information on various digital media topics, collaborating with a group of colleagues in producing and publishing content online.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:1. Represent their own beliefs online in an ethical and considerate manner. 2. Collaborate with students of all abilities in their group.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
The module consists of lectures touching on the history, but also on the recent trends in digital media and their application domains. The labs focus on providing students with the practical skills necessary for authoring and publishing digital media content in the form of individual portfolios, that illustrate their progress in becoming knowledgeable, articulate and responsible. For the group assignment, students are given the freedom to choose a digital media topic they want to focus on, stimulating their creativity, a pro-active attitude and familiarising them with collaborative work.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Lindgren, S. (2017)
Digital Media and Society
, Sage
Other Relevant Texts:
Balbi, G., & Magaudda, P. (2018)
A History of Digital Media. An Intermedia and Global Perspective.
, Routledge
Siapera, E. (2017)
Understanding New Media, 2nd Edition
, Sage
Potter, W.J. (2021)
Media Literacy
, Sage
Fuchs, C. (2017)
Social Media: A Critical Introduction, 2nd Edition
, Sage
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
BSDMDEUFA - DIGITAL MEDIA DESIGN
BSMMPTUFA - MUSIC MEDIA AND PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Autumn
Module Leader:
mark.marshall@ul.ie