Communication 494CI - Comm, Ecology & Sustainability

As forms of communication contribute to the growing integration of the planet, the planet itself is threatened by unprecedented environmental and economic crises. This course will examine ecology and sustainability through the mediating logic of communication technologies, institutions and texts, as well as insights drawn from fields like Anthropology, Geography, Biology, Physics, and Spirituality. Students will develop an interdisciplinary framework to examine conflicts over nature and the social construction of nature and ecology. We will apply key concepts to real world situations through reflection assignments, in class discussion, presentations, an exam, and a research project. Satisfies the Integrative Experience requirement for BA-Comm majors.

Open to Senior and Junior Communication majors only. Background in Mass Communication or Sustainability Studies is highly recommended.

Non-majors can contact Professor Geddes (geddes@comm.umass.edu) to enroll.