Media and film studies

Everyday Life and Technology

Module code: P3020
Level 6
30 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework

The module investigates the overlapping technological, cultural and social dimensions of technology (particularly communication technologies, but also other domestic technologies) as they are encountered in everyday life. It explores these issues through an investigation of historical and contemporary examples (the telephone, the radio, the television, the mp3 player, the fridge, the computer and the internet) and discusses how domestic technologies are socially shaped, re-shaped, experienced and consumed. During the module you will consider major theoretical approaches to the study of everyday technologies as well as debates about their consequences and significance.

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate a coherent and specialised knowledge of key critical discourses on technology and everyday life.
• Analyse a media technology from the perspective of everyday life, demonstrating reflexivity in relation to approaches adopted.
• Independently devise and execute a small-scale research investigation to test out ideas central to the field of technology and everyday life, and effectively argue a position.