In Writing the Selfie we focus on the selfie as an utterance that participates in rhetorical discourse, and thus we attempt to apply classical rhetorical categories to a visual text. Composition is inherent in any communication act, no matter how quick and automatic that act is; thus, in this course, we view the selfie as a digital platform contributing to the rhetorical ends of composition.

Course Requirements:

Class meetings engage students in activities designed to promote rhetorical skills; “field trips” offer students the chance to go out and about in order to take selfies intentionally; peer reviews provide helpful feedback to students about their composition strategies.

For the final project, students will choose 4 selfies, one for each of the rhetorical discourses introduced in class: good character, persuasion, identification, and discursive formation. Students will then write a reflection on the particular rhetorical purpose of the selfies and on the socio-historical importance of what they represent: i.e., why is it important that you say what you say through your selfies?

Intended Audience:

Undergraduate students interested in digital media and cultural studies. Students minoring in Digital Studies and/or Writing are particularly welcome.

Class Format:

Seminar-style format that includes group discussions of readings as well as group work. Peer collaborations will play an important part in this seminar format. In addition, regular "field trip" sessions allow students opportunities to take selfies intentionally.