Fandom, Social Media, and Authenticity in the Digital Age

Fandom, Social Media, and Authenticity in the Digital Age focuses on the interrelated dynamics of identity, representation, interpretation, and self-reflection. It asks how, where, and with whom we inhabit fandom and popular culture in the digital age. We will examine the role of digital media in the production of celebrity and fandom, using social media tools and platforms as a constant example. More broadly, the course is about what media scholar Henry Jenkins has called “participatory culture,” the processes by which we bring ourselves into digital spaces, establish trust and authenticity (or contest these notions), and negotiate identities in and among others. Along the way, you will develop skills in critical self-reflection and communication, as well as analysis and interpretation. You will audit your own social media use and consider what you have learned in the context of the major social media platforms of our era. Course-Level Learning Outcomes * Identify and describe the relationships between fandom, popular culture, and digital media as each influences our identities and interactions with others * Apply the principles of critical self-reflection and close reading to personal and professional writing and online publications * Engage with communities related to pop culture and fandom, using online platforms to make connections and synthesize knowledge * Reflect on your personal relationships to social media, identity, representation, and social interaction online Course 1 Skills: * Personal development * Analysis * Digital literacy * Writing * Social media * Close reading