ASSIGNMENTS
Late Assignments:
As a general rule, late assignments will NOT be accepted. Exceptions may be made in extraordinary circumstances and when there is an excused absence (see Syllabus). Assignments submitted in a timely manner via email will be accepted if a hard-copy is subsequently submitted as well.Written Assignments:
All written out-of-class assignments are to be done in a standard font, double spaced, and with one inch margins. Any stated length requirements (which are not sacrosanct) are for the primary text itself. Use footnotes or endnotes to cite the sources of materials used when applicable.FILM ASSIGNMENT
1. Response: Watch and respond to an assigned film discussing its conceptual and emotional impacts. (The film will be shown in class and specific prompts will be provided.)
2. Summary: Read the assigned review of the film and write a fairly detailed summary – approximately 2 pages – stating its major points.
3. Paper: Write a short paper – approximately 2 pages – addressing how the review impacted your initial responses and what lessons you have learned from doing this exercise.
The response is due the class period immediately following the showing of the film. The summary and paper are due 2 class periods later, i.e., 1 week from the showing of the film. The film will be shown around the 8th week of the semester.
NB: For this assignment there are no right or wrong answers. There are, however, answers that are more or less thoughtful and thorough.
FCC LETTER ASSIGNMENT
Write a formal letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) persuasively arguing why the FCC should or should not support "network neutrality". The letter must also to set forth the actions the student believes the FCC should take to implement the recommended course of action. The letter is due the class period of May 1, 2009.
NB: The successful completion of this assignment requires both an understanding of the issues surrounding network neutrality and a familiarity with the powers and structure of the FCC.