There is little doubt that media have a huge influence on individuals’ lives. In this special topics seminar students will become familiar with past and contemporary theorizing and research in media psychology. The seminar intertwines latest research on the uses and effects of media with research inthe cognitive sciences. Topics include (1) The Psychology of Entertainment;(2) Media Narratives and the Moral Mind; (3) Opportunities and Threats of Social Media; (4) Video Games – The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly; (5) Persuasion and Social Influence with Media; (6) Media and Children. Students will have the opportunity to conduct small research projects in the area of their interest.
3
UnitsOptional
Grading1, 2, 3
PasstimeGraduate students only
Level LimitLetters and science
CollegeThis guy has lived more lives and has gone on more endeavors than I thought possible for a person. You'll think you heard it all and then bam, he'll drop more lore. His passion bleeds through his words and renders his lectures engaging as a result. His class can be rigorous but he is fair. Put your best foot forward and you'll be rewarded.
The “study guides” you receive in this class literally say “know everything in the readings and everything on the slides and everything I talked about in class.” No guidance whatsoever. Also, for a media class where things have changed exponentially in the past decade, you should use materials that have current statistics.
Weber is a very nice guy, but this was a mediocre class. Grade relied on 4 things, midterm, final, mock trial, and paper, with the midterm average being 77%. The first half of the class focusing on video game history and the second focusing on video game addiction. Would I take him again? Maybe. Would I take the class again? No.
Prof Weber is so sweet and really cares about his students. But I do NOT recommend this class for those who do not care enough about video games. If you're passionate about this topic I'm sure you'll find it interesting. The mock trial was poorly managed and the two MC exams covered so much content though the final wasn't cumulative.
Dr. Weber is the best prof i've ever had! He is extremely knowledgeable and cares a ton about his students. No mandatory attendance but I still attended every class because it was fun and interesting. Grade was 2 tests and 1 paper, he provided study guides. Overall an amazing class and an amazing prof. Highly recommend!
Class graded on midterm final and mock trial. The mock trial was so poorly managed and organized. Roles are not equal. The midterm was based on SO much information and the most random things. Would not reccomend.