BCM100 - Information Theory and Interactivity

Subject Title
Information Theory and Interactivity

Subject Description
With the advent of digital, many Communications and Marketing practitioners are often left wondering: Does the space need to significantly evolve or are we still working with the same rules, just new tools? Through this course, we will examine the social, political, economic, legal, and historical context of the use of information sharing, artificial intelligence, new media, new distribution channels, and new delivery systems to develop and refine what we now call interactive media. Students are introduced to the concepts, progression, and adoption of communication tools, and how they are used to support the dissemination and promotion of information. Students develop an awareness of the capability to use content development tools and techniques primarily associated with interactive media.

** Course descriptions may be subject to change in commitment to align with evolving industry needs.

Credit Status
Mandatory course credit for all students in the Honours Bachelor of Communications and Media degree

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

1. Describe theoretical concepts of information theory and its application to interactivity in a digital context. 
2. Explain how design and architecture of digital/interactive assets and platforms influences or supports the dissemination and promotion of information. 
3. Examine tools and processes used in creating and managing digital media assets. 
4. Define user-centered design and user experience principles for accessible, interactive, information-based media.  
5. Explain the basic structural and aesthetic elements and qualities of media products, platforms, and software.  
6. Discuss how information is created and consumed in both private and public spheres. 
7. Describe the standards and laws of cyberspace that regulate the creation, dissemination, and promotion of information. 

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.