Course Catalogue

Digital Media and Information Studies 1A INFOST1001

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Humanities
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 1 (SCQF level 7)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

How does data shape our world? This course explores the creation, use and social impact of digital information, developing the critical and practical skills needed to navigate today's data-driven society.

Timetable

Lectures: Weekly two 1-hour lectures over 10 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus; weekly two 1-hour workshops (choice of times) over 10 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus

Requirements of Entry

None

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

The standard assessments for this course are:

■ Critical research project (80%): Either a written report with images (1500 words), an annotated visual essay (10-15 captioned images), or a recorded video essay (approximately 12 minutes). All formats include a self-reflective component evaluating personal engagement with data-driven environments. This assessment develops skills in evidence gathering, critical analysis, information literacy and professional communication

■ Lab portfolio (20%): A curated portfolio of outputs from weekly practical workshop sessions, demonstrating progressive development of digital skills and critical engagement with course content across the semester.

 

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available:

■ There is no alternative to the assessments, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions).

 

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.

Course Aims

This course aims to:

■ introduce students to the nature, value and social significance of information and data in contemporary society;

■ develop critical understanding of how data is produced, stored, circulated and used at scale;

■ explore the ethical, legal and social implications of data-driven environments;

■ build practical skills in information literacy, data analysis and information visualisation;

■ situate information and data more broadly within contemporary contexts.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

1. distinguish between data, information and knowledge and explain their relationships;

2. critically evaluate the social, ethical and legal dimensions of data-driven decision-making;

3. apply information literacy skills to assess the credibility, relevance and trustworthiness of digital information;

4. demonstrate understanding of how data is stored, organised and made meaningful through visualisation and analysis;

5. situate data and information practices within contemporary contexts.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions