Special Topics in Film and Digital Media: Immersive Media

This class will introduce students to current thinking around the practices and technologies of immersive media from the 17th to the 19th centuries. Each week we will cover a topic, object or theme that demonstrates the varied ways in which immersive media and/or immersive experiences can take form, be thought and understood. Screenings or artist talks will complement weekly content by providing contemporary (20th & 21st century) examples of themes and questions raised by lectures and readings. Topics covered will include realism and reality; telepresence and gender; illusion and magic; information and connectivity; collecting, collections and power; interactive media, education and play, among others. This class will include a range of activities including writing and creative (making-based) assignments.