Communication and Digital Culture

A.Y. 2024/2025
9
Max ECTS
60
Overall hours
SSD
SPS/08
Language
Italian
Learning objectives
The course introduces and critically analyses cultural production and communication on digital platforms, focusing on social media platforms.

The course is divided into two parts. The first will be theoretical, introducing the concepts, themes, and forms of production and consumption of digital culture through digital platforms. In the second one, with an applied focus, the course will illustrate the main methodological and analytical approaches for studying online communication.
Expected learning outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
1. Critically observe and interpret phenomena within the digital cultural context;
2. Understand the epistemological and methodological challenges characterising social research on digital cultures and online communication processes;
3. Apply methods of digital data collection and analysis and reflect on the ethical implications of these practices.
Single course

This course can be attended as a single course.

Course syllabus and organization

Single session

Responsible
Lesson period
First trimester
Course syllabus
The module composes itself of two main parts.
In the first, the course will initially focus on key theories and concepts necessary for a general understanding of communication and culture in the digital context. Subsequently, the course will individually examine some of the most relevant aspects of digital communication and culture, analyzing them in light of the most relevant empirical evidence and theoretical contributions.
In the second part, the module will provide the fundamental theoretical and methodological knowledge to independently and rigorously conduct empirical analyses through digital platforms - in particular through social media. The lessons will review all phases of research, from planning to analysis of the collected data, alternating moments of theoretical learning with moments of practical application of the methodologies and techniques learned.
Prerequisites for admission
No requirement. Basic knowledge of Excel is strongly recommended.
Teaching methods
Interactive lectures and seminars.
Teaching Resources
For attending students, the list of mandatory and recommended readings is published in the appropriate section of the module's MyAriel website.
For non-attending students, the list of mandatory readings for the exam is as follows:
1. Poell, T., Nieborg, D. B., & Duffy, B. E. (2022). Piattaforme digitali e produzione culturale. Minimum Fax.
2. Scarcelli, M., Magaudda, P., & Drusian. (2019). Vite interconnesse. Pratiche digitali attraverso App, smartphone e piattaforme online. Meltemi.
3. Caliandro, A., & Gandini, A. (2019). I metodi digitali nella ricerca sociale. Carocci.
Assessment methods and Criteria
For attending students, the exam will be divided in two parts (50% each): a written exam in the classroom and an audiovisual presentation, to be submitted by a deadline specified on myAriel. Further information will be made available on MyAriel and during the course lessons.
Non-attending students will take an oral exam on the entire program of the course for non-attending students, specified on this page.
SPS/08 - SOCIOLOGY OF CULTURE AND COMMUNICATION - University credits: 9
Lessons: 60 hours