WMMC1000 1.1 What is Communication

Introduction to WMMC1000

• WMMC1000: An introductory media unit at Macquarie University focusing on critical research in visual media.

  • Covers various important areas of visual culture studies and communication theory.

Lesson Overview

• Weekly Topics:

  • Week 1: Intro to Media and Communication

  • Week 2: Visual Culture

  • Week 3: Political Economy

  • Week 4: Gender

  • Week 5: Social Media

  • Week 6: Revision and Debates

Learning Outcomes

• Key Skills Developed:

  • Recognize and define visual culture and communication theory areas through activities.

  • Explain politicized aspects of visual media concerning production and content.

  • Critically review, analyze, and synthesize findings in visual media.

  • Present work conforming to academic standards in both written and spoken form.

  • Appraise issues in cultural and social communication practices, including philosophical and political facets.

  • Use discipline-specific terminology effectively.

Assessments

• Major Assessments:

  • Presentations: 20% (starting Week 2)

  • Image Analysis: 20% (due Week 4)

  • Major Essay: 35% (due Week 6)

• Minor Assessments:

  • Active Contribution: 10% (ongoing)

  • Online Quiz: 10% (Week 2)

  • In-Class Debate: 5% (Week 6)

• Presentation Protocol:

  • Presentation duration: approx. 10 minutes.

  • Video clips: maximum 1 minute 30 seconds.

  • Encourages original research and class interaction.

  • Presentation timing choices have advantages and disadvantages.

Understanding Communication

• Definition and Process:

  • Communication is a social process where individuals utilize symbols to create meaning.

  • Symbols can be arbitrary, verbal or non-verbal, and can involve face-to-face or mediated interactions.

  • Communication's effectiveness is influenced by social and cultural contexts (time, place, relationships).

Communication Theory

• Key Concept:

  • WMMC1000 emphasizes that meanings from a sender to a receiver may not always align; signs can possess multiple meanings.

Cultural References in Media

• Analysis of Characters:

  • Grandpa Joe as the Villain in Willy Wonka:

    • Theory suggests he demonstrates disregard for others while pursuing personal desires.

    • Analysis highlights his knowledge of Wonka's operations as suspicious.

  • Jar Jar Binks as a Sith Lord:

    • Popularized theory on Reddit and supported by the actor Ahmed Best.

  • Kirk and Spock as Romantic Figures:

    • First slash pairing in fandom culture, recognized for perceived homoerotic subtext.

    • Discussion of slash culture and other pairings in media.

Meaning-Making Process

• Interpretation:

  • Communicative practices may not lead to common meanings; the failures in communication can elucidate aspects of postmodern culture.

  • Significance of multiple meanings in acts of visual communication will recur in coursework.

References and Future Readings

• Recommended readings for further understanding in Lesson 1.2 include works by Ang and Huizing.

  • Final references: Ang (2006), Huizing & Bouman (2002), Watzlawick et al. (1972), Turner & West (2018).

• Consider the implications of these readings on your understanding of media communication.