In this class we will:
- analyze the processes of media spectatorship, engagement, and identification
- study historically evolving approaches, popular perspectives, and academic debates surrounding audiences and fandom
- consider the methodological and ethical stakes at play in studying audiences and fandom
- interrogate how race, sexuality, gender, nation, and culture impact experience of media spectatorship and fandom
- explore the dynamics of our own media spectatorship
- analyze how media spectatorship and fandom is depicted (directly and indirectly) in film and television
- break down the components and processes of a long form research essay
- embark upon primary and secondary research projects on audience engagement and/or fan practices
- iteratively draft and revise long form (10-12 page) research papers based on a combination of secondary and primary research.
