In this course, we will work to synthesize and critically examine some of the major contemporary considerations for children¿s and teens¿ media use today. Are media bad for kids' Good for kids' Or does the answer depend on a variety of factors and what outcomes we are measuring' Together we will apply an interdisciplinary lens to examine (a) what we know ¿ and don¿t yet know ¿ about media in the lives of youth, and (b) where we envision the field of children¿s media needs to go. As we consider nuances and trends across the media uses and effects of diverse youth, we will carefully examine extant research, focusing on four angles: developmental considerations, media and education, media for well-being and connection, and the navigation and creation of media landscapes. We will consider how technological advancements, such as AI, and the evolving needs and priorities of young people come into play for child media use ¿ and how the research and industry worlds should respond. This class aims to prepare students to navigate topics around youth and media, to help build students¿ foundation for a variety of media-, education-, and research-related careers, and to hone students¿ ability to innovate in the design, use, study, and conversations around media for youth in an ever-expanding digital world.

Note that this information may change at any time. Please visit the MyBU Student Portal for the most up-to-date course information.