What is communication? Is communication tied to language? How does technology change our understanding of communication? What are the consequences of this? And how can we distinguish between information and manipulation?

This lecture provides a thorough overview of key debates in cultural and communication theory and introduces classical and contemporary trends in communication studies. It presents fundamental concepts and models that form the theoretical framework. To understand communication, we draw on a broad spectrum of academic disciplines – from philosophy, linguistics and media studies to psychology, social sciences and education. This makes it clear that engaging with communication is a central tool for creative practice.

The aim of the course is to master key communication theory concepts and to be able to assess the significance of communication ideas and actions for one’s own design. In addition to the lecture components, there will be questions and discussion topics developed collaboratively in small groups.