In this course we take an interdisciplinary approach to the investigation of how language both shapes and is shaped by American society with a specific focus on New Media. Drawing on critical and analytical tools and socio-cultural theories to examine this dynamic relationship, our examples are pulled from Twitter, Facebook, Snapchat, texting, Instagram, YouTube, and more. Through this, we explore questions surrounding issues such as moral panics and the feared degradation of language, literacy(ies), the global dominance of English, identity and self-presentation, the definition of community, and gossip and shaming. Course requirements include class participation, leading class discussion, regular reading responses, and a research project. Fulfills the Second Writing Requirement.

​NOTE: Although this will be a different course than AMST 2462: Language and New Media, if you have taken AMST 2462 you should NOT sign up for this AMST/MDST 3559.

* This course can be used to fulfill the Second Writing Requirement (AMST or MDST).

** This course fulfills the Social Science Requirement for the College (AMST). 

*** This course fulfills requirements for the American Studies major (AMST), Linguistics major (AMST or MDST), and Media Studies major (MDST).

COURSE GOALS

Upon completion of this course, you will have:    

• gained an understanding of the dynamic interaction of language, social identities, and New Media.

• critically analyzed our understanding  & ideologies of language & New Media as portrayed in areas such as the (New) media, popular culture, & everyday interactions.

• improved your academic writing & reading skills;

• become familiar with several theoretical models for the study of language, society, and New Media;

• improved a range of skills (analytical, communication, presentation, team work, academic research, technology/digital, etc.) via class activities and your final project;

• connected the knowledge & perspectives you learned in class to your own life & society.