COMM discussion post and reply

Instructions: (PLEASE READ!)
1. Listen to the podcast segment linked to your prompt of choice.
2. Choose ONE of the three prompts listed below and write a discussion post with your response. Be sure to (1) answer the questions provided in the prompt and (2) make clear connections between the content of the podcast and relevant course material.
3. After you make an initial post, choose a post made by one of your classmates and write a response. Be sure to (1) respond thoughtfully to what was discussed in the original post and (2) go beyond simply saying whether you agree or giving compliments. The goal of writing responses is to elaborate on what was originally discussed and to carry on the conversation.
A detailed version of the rubric for discussion assignments may be found here: On the Media Discussion Rubric
Initial post and one discussion post reply needed
NOTE: There is no flexibility regarding deadlines. However, if you miss the opportunity to create an initial post by Thursday, you may still respond to a peer by Monday and earn credit for that part of the assignment.
Another NOTE: The class is divided into groups for discussion assignments. This means you will be able to view responses from other members of your group, but not the entire class.
Additional information about expectations for discussion assignments may be found here (also on D2L under Content > Start Here): On the Media Discussion Directions
Prompt 1
In the second segment of this week’s OTM podcast, Gladstone talks with Lili Loofbourow about Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky. Loofbourow discusses the parallels between Zelensky’s presidency and his former role as a comedy actor. She also brings up how his current administration has been successful in using communication to rally Ukraine and global allies.
In class we learned about the cultural power that the United States has typically held in global media and how this has spread Western values throughout the world. We also learned about media globalization. Using key concepts from the course material and specific examples mentioned in the OTM episode, discuss:
What concepts that we learned about in class can explain why Zelensky’s message is resonating with global audiences? How do they differ from how they were used in the 20th century?
Loofbourow held some reservations about using Western narratives in Zelensky’s communication. Do you agree or disagree with her? Why?
Prompt 2
In the second segment of the September 25, 2020 OTM podcast, Bob Garfield talks with Alexandra Dean, producer of This Is Paris, a documentary about reality star Paris Hilton. Dean discusses the process of making the documentary and what she was able to learn about Hilton.
In class we talk about the structure and variations of reality television and the role of story editors. Using key concepts from the course material and specific examples mentioned in the OTM episode, discuss:
What does This is Paris reveal about the key elements of reality television? What are some things audiences should be aware of when watching reality television?
How does the documentary differ from reality television? Or does it? What does Dean’s conversation disclose about this process?
Prompt 3
During the last segment of the September 25, 2020 OTM podcast, Xandra Ellin speaks with several guests about what can be understood from watching reality television. They particularly discuss The Bachelor(ette) and other dating reality shows.
In class we learned about what and who is behind media content creation. We also discussed diversity in the media industry. Using key concepts from the course material and specific examples mentioned in the OTM episode, discuss:
Why does it matter when women and minorities are not involved in the creative process of media? Do you think this has changed in recent years? Why or why not?
How does reality television act as a “cultural artifact”, as stated by Ellin? Why would people continue to watch reality programming when many consider it low-culture?
first: https://www.wnycstudios.org/podcasts/otm/segments/…
second: https://www.wnycstudios.org/podcasts/otm/episodes/…
third: https://www.wnycstudios.org/podcasts/otm/segments/…