Communication for Social Change

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Provider

Coursera
Pricing

Paid Course
Languages

English
Certificate

Certificate Available
Effort

9 weeks, 1 hour a week
Sessions

Self-Paced
Level

Intermediate
Subtitles

English

Found in

Overview

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This course critically examines how communication contributes to social change. It covers topics such as the role of social movements in shaping communication theories, digital alternatives for community development, and the opportunities and challenges of digital interventions like e-government. This resource offers a critical exploration of how communication drives social change, blending theory with real-world examples. It examines the role of social movements, digital interventions, and community informatics in shaping societal transformation. Designed for online learning, it provides a deep, reflective understanding of communication's impact on governance and social progress. This resource is suitable for students, scholars, and professionals in communication, social work, and digital media. A basic understanding of social change theories and an interest in communication's role in society are recommended. This course provides a comprehensive analysis of how communication influences social change, from grassroots movements to digital interventions. It critically examines the relationship between communication strategies and societal transformation. This course is based on Communication for Social Change, by Pradip Ninan Thomas. Copyright ©2019 by Sage Publications Limited. All rights reserved, including rights for text and data mining and training of artificial technologies or similar technologies. Published by Sage Publications Limited, London. Used by arrangement with Sage Publications Limited.

Syllabus

Communication for Social Change: An Extended Introduction and Critique
- This module explores the evolution and theoretical foundations of communication for social change (CSC), emphasizing the importance of context, critical analysis of digital interventions, and the role of power dynamics in development. Learners will gain insights into how CSC strategies have developed, their limitations, and the need for more politically informed approaches.
Accounting for Context in Communication for Social Change
- This module explores how audience diversity and contextual factors shape effective communication for social change. It covers key concepts such as functions, capabilities, and the importance of tailored strategies to achieve equitable outcomes. Learners will gain insights into adapting communication approaches to different cultural and social contexts.
Anti-context: Infrastructure Struggles in India: Between Maoism and the State
- This module explores the complex relationship between infrastructure, communication technologies, and power struggles in India, focusing on how these elements shape conflict dynamics between the state, Maoist movements, and local communities. It provides insights into the use of digital tools in resistance and control, and examines the limitations of alternative infrastructure in marginalized regions.
Social Movements, Communications and Social Change: An Introduction
- This module explores the origins, characteristics, and challenges of social movements, focusing on their role in challenging power structures and driving social change. Learners will gain an understanding of how collective action shapes societal transformation and the importance of communication in mobilizing support for causes.
Learning from a Social Movement: The Case of the Right to Information Movement
- This module explores the intersection of social movements and theoretical frameworks, focusing on the Right to Information (RTI) movement in India. It examines how indigenous practices like jan sunwais challenge Western concepts of public spheres and civil society. Learners will gain insights into the role of marginalized voices in shaping societal change.
Digital Humanitarianism: Challenges and Opportunities
- This module explores the emerging field of digital humanitarianism, examining how digital tools are used in crisis response and the societal implications of living in risk-prone environments. Learners will gain insights into the role of technology in disaster management and the challenges faced by communities in leveraging digital resources. The module also investigates the evolving relationship between technology and society in times of crisis.
Contemporary Digital Alternatives: Community Informatics, The Case of Telecomunicaciones Indigenas Communitarias and the Information Commons
- This module explores community informatics as a strategy for addressing digital inequalities through participatory and locally driven approaches. Learners will examine case studies of community-led telecom initiatives and understand the principles of co-production and the informational commons. The course also covers research methods and global examples of low-cost digital solutions.
Making the Digital Count: E-government, Public Sector Software and Social Change
- This module explores the transformation of public administration through e-government, focusing on digital innovations, transparency, and the balance between efficiency and citizen rights. It examines key concepts like governmentality, open data, and the challenges of public sector software in promoting social change.
The Other Side of the Digital: E-Waste
- This module explores the environmental and social challenges of e-waste, including its global impact, regulatory issues, and the role of media in shaping public awareness. Learners will gain an understanding of how e-waste is managed across different income levels and the ethical responsibilities involved in digital technology use.