Social media applications and uses for suistanability communication

Target Students
Bachelor, 3rd year. This class, taught in English, should appeal to students in the public communication concentration, but also those interested in sustainability, health, marketing, tourism, corporate communication, environment, etc. and students who are interested in career paths that includes government, business, NGOs, socially responsible organizations.

Course Description
Students will examine the emergence, development and contemporary uses of social media in communication science. Using sustainability related behaviors as the focus of the course, the social media environment will be examined, including historical development, uses, and its outcomes. Specific focus is placed on communication through and with social media to promote sustainable behaviors.

The class utilizes a practical, applied experiential approach to creating communication strategy, identifying appropriate social media, message development, implementation, and evaluation. Students will be introduced to research evidence and related to social media practices and impact. Students will be expected to discuss and apply material from readings, complete assignments, participate in class-related social media, and develop and implement social media activities related to communicating for sustainable behaviors.

General Class Outline
1) Introduction 2) Emergence of Social Media 3) Development 4) Current Social Media Environment 5) Impact of social media 6) Social Media Communication Strategy

Class Conditions
Students should come to class with laptop or tablet computers. Otherwise, the class will have to use a computer lab for some sessions.

Evaluation
The exam is composed of in class work (30%) and a final written examination (70%).