Course features

The process of digitalisation has progressed rapidly in recent years, leading to a proliferation of new forms of cultural production and to increased opportunities for creative and digital industries. The Internet, in particular, has given shape to new relationships between producers, service providers and audiences.

There is now widespread recognition that digital technologies have profoundly changed the way we produce content, share information, develop products and services, and create knowledge, while defining new skills and relationships.

This module will examine the role of Internet cultures on visual and performing arts, software and computer games, and digital journalism as key examples of creative digital industries.

Students will critically examine the cultural, economic and social dimensions of some of the fastest-growing sectors in the digital economy while considering how power and knowledge are shaped in our contemporary era.

The nature of Internet cultures will be analysed by looking at the following ideas:

• the redefinition of heritage, memory and identity

• the role and nature of digital audiences

• concepts of prosumers and of produsage

• the nature of (free) labour in digital industries.

The module will also reflect on digital industries and Internet cultures in relation to social media and other examples of participatory culture.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• Appreciate the key drivers of the technological, social and cultural innovation in today’s economy. 
• Apply theories and concepts to contemporary forms of production and distribution.
• Demonstrate theoretically informed critical skills to the common debates relating to the relationships between new media and industries.
• Apply key theories and concepts to case studies and recent innovations in the digital economy.

Entry requirements

T​he standard entry requirements comprise:

• A 2:2 honours degree or international equivalent 
• A CV and personal statement outlining reasons for study  
• English language at Band B (IELTS 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in each skill).

For information on our English language requirements please see our English Language requirements page.

Assessment

You will be assessed via the following:

• 4000-word essay (90%)

• Engagement and Participation (10%)

Further information

This module runs over 10 weeks and combines online interactions with your peers and instructors with self-directed learning.

The module materials aim to provide you with a rich and varied online learning experience and include:

• Five live webinars

• Topic-specific interactive lessons

• Readings

• Discussion forums

• A variety of activities designed to encourage student participation, learning, debate and contributions.

Every two weeks, there will be a live webinar session where you will engage with your instructor and fellow students. These sessions may include a range of activities: to discuss the week’s topics, debrief the week’s activities and/or debate on and answer questions posted in the weekly forum. They may also have specific preparation activities and readings.