Examines landmark theories from a variety of disciplines, all or most of which preceded digital communication, that provide the theoretical dynamics that inform, embody, or are altered by computer-mediated communication and online social interaction. By studying modern benchmarks in psychology, sociology, anthropology, education, management, nonverbal interaction, and communication, the objectives of the course are to cultivate participants? social scientific foundation with which to ground the study of contemporary electronic media in historical and theoretical contexts, enhance their research by improving their ability to recognize and capitalize on existing theories, and to sharpen their conceptual analysis.