Course Catalogue

Digital Media and Information Studies 1B INFOST1002

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Humanities
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 1 (SCQF level 7)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

From social media to AI, from coding to immersive environments, this course explores the technologies and ideas transforming digital media, developing practical skills and critical perspectives for a world shaped by digital communication and creativity.

Timetable

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%): Students may submit as 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 connecting personal experience of platforms to course content. This assessment develops skills in evidence gathering, critical analysis, information organisation 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 range and significance of digital media technologies in contemporary society;

■ Explore the historical and technical journey from analogue to digital communication;

■ Develop practical skills in coding and web-based communication;

■ Critically examine the role of platforms, social media, AI and immersive technologies in shaping digital culture;

■ Situate digital media within broader contexts of work, creativity, cultural production and the arts..

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

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

1. Critically evaluate the role and impact of digital media technologies in contemporary society;

2. Explain the historical and technical processes underpinning the shift from analogue to digital communication;

3. Demonstrate foundational practical skills in coding and digital content creation;

4. Analyse the social, cultural and economic dimensions of platforms, social media and AI;

5. Situate digital media within contexts of creative practice, cultural production and the world of work

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions