Assignments

Assignment 1: Wikipedia

For this assignment, you will investigate the rich social ecosystem and organizational structure that allows Wikipedia to function. Specifically, you will explore some of the community policies that govern Wikipedia, and write a report on how these rules play out in practice, and whether they contribute to or inhibit collaboration on Wikipedia. Ideally you will create an account, and make several edits before writing the report to give you some "hands on" data about community on the site. More details on the assignment as well as the menu of rules to choose from, as well as a space for you to report your observations can be found on the Assignment 1 Details and Reporting.

Assignment 2: The Elevator Pitch

For this assignment, you should develop a short pitch (approximately one page) describing an important emerging theme or case study related to the course that you can develop later into a Class Presentation and Final Project. Construct an argument that will "sell" your idea to your colleagues. Think of the big picture and prepare your arguments for why your chosen topic or case study is worthy of further inquiry. Use links as appropriate. Some possible final project topics can be found here: Project Ideas. Post your pitch to the course wiki at Assignment 2 Submissions.

Assignment 3: Audio or Video Production

This assignment consists of an audiovisual work of your creation, and can be based on previous work (such as your Elevator Pitch). The work could be an audio file (such as a podcast or song), a video (such as a remix or animation), or a compelling image (such as a mindmap or photo montage). If an audio or video work, you should aim for a length of 3-5 minutes (there is 7 minute maximum). Content and presentation are much more important than length (a compelling 2-minute audio interview would be great). Whichever format you choose, your assignment should somehow fit in to one or more of the course's six broad thematic areas. Ideally, this assignment would feed into your class presentation and final project. Unlike the other individual assignments, this one may be done in pairs. Additional Assignment 3 Details and Links.