Ethnography of Technology and Media in the United States

Catalog description

Applied widely across the humanities and social sciences, ethnographic approaches to the study of culture encompass a wide variety of qualitative research methods that range from intimate personal interviews to participation in large group events. This seminar presents a detailed study of how the integration of technologies into the fabric of everyday life in the United State has both enabled the creation of new cultural forms and redefined existing social and cultural life. Students will engage with foundational and emerging works that apply the theories and methods of ethnography to the close study of technology and media use and culture, as well as works that demonstrate how emerging technologies may be applied in ethnographic research. In addition to presenting the relevant literature, this seminar will provide students with rigorous training in the requisite skills and concepts that define ethnographic practice, and offer opportunities for students to apply these skills and concepts to produce significant field research. Examples of technological forms considered could include video games, 3D printing and maker technologies, genetic technologies, mobile phones and devices, and a variety of internet technologies.