The social network Yik Yak has resumed activities in the past year, after having been discontinued. What makes this social network particularly interesting is that it relies on anonymity and an enclosed geographical area. In this mini-course we’ll examine what “yaks” say and how they say it, analyzing them from a rhetorical and cultural perspective. You will analyze several yaks that convey views of your community, as well as create your own strategic yaks. 

Course Requirements:

The work you will do in this class will culminate in the creation of a Yik Yak Ethnography: an evidence-based description that records a specific cultural perspective of your Ann Arbor community. While contemporary culture will be central to our discussions, this is primarily a course in writing and rhetoric, so we will pay particular attention to strategies for effectively conveying your arguments, in yaks, to your community.

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 "yakking" sessions allow students opportunities to gauge the rhetorical and cultural trends in the Ann Arbor Yik Yak community.