module specification

This module provides a comprehensive examination of diverse genres across various media formats. It explores the distinctive attributes and patterns defining specific genres as well as their form of production and consumption. A variety of genre media from films, TV series, comics, social media to video games serve as a platform to look at the significant role of genre in organising and distinguishing content across media. The exploration spans their evolution, adaptations to new technologies and how they are informed by global socio-cultural contexts.

Going beyond traditional media, the module examines the emergence of new genres from technologically mediated communicative processes and practices in contemporary digital media. From binge-worthy streaming to varied forms of digital contents, the module uncovers ways certain genres both attract and (di)satisfy audience expectations some resonating globally while others carving out niche fan bases inspiring participation.

The module aims to:

· Support the transition into undergraduate studies in media cultures by promoting critical engagement with specific genre media texts

· Introduce students to a wide range of concepts, media texts and formats rooted in different genres

· Facilitate a supportive environment to encourage the examination of cultural, historical and technological influences shaping their creation and reception genre media

· An introduction to the history of genre studies

· Definition of genre in media

· Media genres conventions and subgenres

· Genre hybridity and developments

· An overview of particular genres and formats within their critical contexts

· Detailed exploration of specific genres and texts E.g. Film noir; political thriller; dystopian sf; reality TV, etc.

· Transmedia storytelling and cross-platform gernes

· Genres in the digital age

· Social media genres – Case study: the selfie journal

· The multimodal genre – Case study: the animated webcomic

· Genre fandoms: fun cultures and communities

The module teaching team facilitates screenings of significant genre media audio-visual texts, alongside the presentation of key case studies for seminar-based discussions and analysis.

Teaching methods include formal lectures, seminar discussion, screenings, library sessions and tutorials. Students are expected to attend lectures and seminars: in the seminars they will at times work in small groups and be given practice in listening to each other’s contributions and offering constructive criticism, and in chairing and reporting discussion to the plenary seminar group. The teaching and learning strategy aims at encouraging an inclusive and supportive learning environment that respects and values the contributions of individual students, and provides opportunities for individual intellectual development through a variety of learning opportunities.

The module booklet will be available online, as will lecture outlines and some readings. Weblearn or its equivalent will also be used for communication with students individually and as a cohort. In addition to guided reading, students are expected to read and to use variety of sources (primary and secondary) and use seminars and tutorials to raise issues, questions and seek feedback.

A blended learning strategy will be employed to enhance the learning experience, facilitate communication between students and tutors and develop collaboration among students. The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) will be used as a platform to support online activities including on-line discussions, evaluation of online resources, and access to electronic reading packs. The VLE will also be used to facilitate formative assessment and related feedback, as well as a tool to integrate useful online learning materials provided by research institutions, academic publications, professional organisations and other relevant sources.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of genre patterns in mediated communication

2. Critically analyse specific media genre texts considering their characteristics and broader historical and socio-cultural significance

3. Articulate ideas about the function of genres as a critical concept for media production and consumption

4. Show an understanding of the creative and participatory uses of genre within various media formats

5. Demonstrate familiarity with the evolving aspects of genre in media over time and through technological change

6. Apply knowledge in the critique of specific genre texts and mediums

Reading list awaiting validation:

https://rl.talis.com/3/londonmet/lists/C9B4DE28-105C-176F-1D6D-077A1BC8E5CB.html?lang=en