Comm amid Fragmentation, Weaponization and AI

Catalog description

This course examines the contemporary challenges for communicators in an era defined by fragmented, participatory, and weaponized information ecosystems. From the rise of misinformation and the erosion of trust, to the opportunities and risks presented by AI, we ask: what does effective communication look like today? Students will gain both a strong theoretical grounding and practical skills, including how to build community resilience against rumors, answering questions at a town hall, or disseminating new research. The course draws on recent case studies and integrates real-time examples as events unfold. Assessments include online discussion posts, in-class participation, leading an activity, a midterm exam, and a communications toolkit or strategy memo offering actionable recommendations for an organization or institution.