Communicating Digitally

• Credit value: 30 credits at Level 6
• Convenor: Dr Scott Rodgers
• Assessment: an 800-word digital communication analysis (20%), 1500-word digital communication strategy (30%) and partial implementation of a digital communication probject - blog, vlog, podcast, social media profile or digital publication (50%)

In this module you will gain advanced skills in digital communication techniques, including:

• blogging
• vlogging
• podcasting
• social media
• digital publications.

You will also develop skills and knowledge across the publication formats and interactive environments crucial for media practitioners today. Covering everything from the distinctive styles of online writing to the challenges of producing coherent multimedia content, our focus is on using digital media strategically rather than gratuitously.

As well as working on particular skills, you will be expected to develop effective overall strategies in online self-presentation, establishing for yourself a professional and strategic approach to your digital profile. By the end of the module, you will be able to demonstrate critical engagement with a fast-changing media environment, and an awareness of the needs and interests of digital media users.

Indicative syllabus

• Online identity: from personal profile to professional brand
• Audience interaction and engagement
• Linking, sources and netiquette
• Blogging, microblogging and news feeds
• Approaching social media professionally
• Working with photos, infographics and animations
• Working with sound and podcasts
• Working with video and screen recording
• Digital media business models
• Web metrics, analytics and SEO