In this course, we will examine the role of media in the context of globalization. We will explore theories, topics and emerging concepts related to the scope and depth with which media have become integrated into the daily lives of media audiences in the global sphere. The course asserts that examining global media structures and practices will help expand our critical understanding of the implications of the still evolving media environment. As Marshall McLuhan notes, the content of any medium is another medium. The scale with which human communication has changed can be best understood not so much by the content that media projects but the extent to which the interaction between media institutions, the state, and audiences influence are changing patterns of social, cultural and political behaviors.

By the end of the semester, students will:

• develop a deeper understanding of the role of media in a global context and how it shapes communicative practices between and among global media audiences;
• explore and compare different media systems, structures and practices and how they shape global cultural formations and communication patterns and policies;
• develop an appreciation and a critical understanding of the challenges that a globalized media culture present; and
• synthesize all course related material to develop strategies to interpret the impact of the media in their daily lives.

This seminar explores the concept of “Internet Convergence,” and its impact on culture in an increasingly digital and mobile world. While the course focuses primarily on “emerging media and communications,” it also takes into consideration older ones, including print, radio, television and such broadband networks as telephony, cable, wireless, satellite and the early Internet.

The seminar will introduce students to the:

• core concepts and issues concerning media and communication technologies;
• media and communication industry in transition globally;
• digital platforms (YouTube, Facebook, Podcast, eBay, Flickr, Wikipedia, etc.), and how they are reshaping our lives;
• steps/processes/skills needed for creating online course packages; and
• self-evaluation in how Internet Convergence is impacting them personally.

Students improve their oral and written communication skills through preparation and presentation of written and oral information. For the first semester, the themes range from types of communication, public speaking to networking. Students will be able to use these knowledge and skills to communicate effectively in the workplace in both oral and written forms and to establish and maintain a working relationship. For the second semester, the themes include Applying Communication Principles in the Workplace, Negotiation and Conflict Management, Working in Teams, and Job-seeking skills.

Global Studies 202 aims to introduce contemporary global issues and develop knowledge in specific content-based language. Students will be able to use language appropriate for each of the issues and debate about concepts and issues related to them. It includes such themes as Families, Festivals and Celebrations, Landscape and Environment and Agriculture. Through individual, pair, group and whole-class work, the students will be able to develop the four macro- skills, especially reading and speaking.

Core English deals with various macro skills in English ranging from reading to writing. However, writing is dealt with more insightfully in Writing Skills. Core English is by itself integrative of those various skills in English.

International Relation I provides a basic illustration of what International Relations is mainly about. Essential concepts, theories, ideologies, debates, and controversies over international politics and economy (among other prime national and international factors) will be presented throughout the course. In addition, students will be exposed to different discussions over the relativity of IR theory and practice in the real world, through the analysis of strengths and weaknesses of specific theories when applied to different case scenario/case studies.

A continuation from International Relation I, International Relation II emphasizes the complexity of interconnectedness among prominent actors-be them the governments, civil societies, or individuals who have certain levels of influence over the political and economic decisions. Not only so, International Relations II provides students with a more comprehensive look at how conflicts and instability arise in the face of globalization, technological advancement, and intellectual development, and how they are handled through various means. Contemporary global issues, including the environment, healthcare, and human rights, discussed in this course will serve as a great opportunity for students to see how IR theories are at work in today’s challenging world arena.