Final Project Prompt Critical Study of K-Pop Fandom Due Finals Week (Exact date and time TBD) Overview During the second half of the quarter, we have focused our attention on cultural themes, social practices, and political tensions in K-Pop fandom, paying particular attention to the many complex formations of identity that have emerged in various global contexts. We can see this shift in emphasis not only in the subjects addressed in our lectures and readings, but in the ‘human-centered’ approach to research reflected in the scholarship we have read. Fan studies remains a relatively new field of study, but it has established a strong preference for understanding how people make meaning through their everyday interactions with media texts. For this project, you will follow along these lines of inquiry and explore one aspect of K-Pop fandom and how it has been articulated and shaped among a specific demographic of fans. Your exploration should culminate in a short 10-15 minute presentation to be delivered in-person during finals week. You may work alone, as a pair, or a group of three, and are free to pursue a topic covered in our course materials or an outside topic with the approval of the instructor. Whatever path you take, your analysis should be research-oriented, focused on a specific issue, practice, or concept, and aim to understand its human dimensions. While the parameters for what you choose to analyze remain fairly flexible, your options for how you analyze your topic (i.e., your research method) remain fairly limited and are outlined in the next section. You must submit a short written description of your plan for the final project as soon as possible and will be asked to share your idea with your peers on the last day of class. Choosing a Research Method I have provided several options for how you may pursue your analysis, in part, to accommodate for the variety of circumstances imposed on us by the pandemic. You should choose your method in accordance with your mental and physical capacities, but also based on the kinds of questions you wish to pursue with this project. Option 1: Conduct an ethnographic study of how a particular concept, practice, or debate has shaped the cultural identities of K-Pop fans. For this option, you will need to conduct and record 4-5 substantive audio interviews (45 minutes – 1 hour each) with a curated group of K-Pop fans. The strength of your interviews will shape the depth and richness of your analysis and depend largely on the quality of the questions you ask. This brief overview of how to ‘ask the right questions’ in an ethnographic interview will help get you started, but it is strongly suggested that you also consult with the instructor about the list of questions you plan to ask your subjects. Once you have conducted your interviews, you will identify the overlaps, deviations, and discursive patterns in how your subjects respond to your questions and synthesize them into a 10-15 minute media-rich presentation. You might find this brief overview of ethnography as a research method helpful in grounding your study, but remember that we have read a number of examples of fan ethnographies this quarter that can serve as a model. Your presentation should engage with at least two scholarly sources, which may be drawn either from the syllabus or your own research. The instructor will help you find appropriate sources. Expected Deliverables and Research Requirements for Option 2A: ? 4-5 recorded audio interviews (45 mins – 1 hour each) – each recording should be submitted with paper ? 5-6 page Google slideshow. ? At least 2 outside scholarly sources to support your analysis ? Works cited page Option 2: Conduct an auto-ethnographic study of K-Pop fandom by critically engaging with a K-Pop fan practice and reflecting on how the practice fosters emotional connection with the artist, broader community of fans, as well as a sense of cultural identity. You may interact with any practice, but there should be some sort of tangible object or form of documentation of your practice using an audiovisual medium (video, audio, images, web design, etc.) that feels most appropriate. You must then present your reflections and findings, along with the representation of your fan practice, in a 10-15 minute presentation. Your presentation must engage with at least two scholarly sources, which may be drawn either from the syllabus or your own research. The instructor will help you find appropriate sources. Choosing a Topic In an effort to help shake loose some ideas for you, I have provided a summary of topics covered between Weeks 5 and 10 below. In addition, I have jotted down a handful of important concepts that we did not have an opportunity to address this quarter. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and that you are welcome to propose a topic not included here. Themes/issues: ? cultures of racism and misogyny within fandoms ? toxic fandoms, anti-fandom ? fandom as individual vs. collective identity ? fandom as consumerism vs. cultural resistance ? fandom as gendered pathology ? racialization of fandom as white and male Practices/objects: ? fan art ? fan chants ? dance covers ? memorabilia collection Concepts: ? sasaeng (‘stalker fans’) ? anti-fan ? intimacies, connectivity ? ‘fan speak’ ? ‘Twitter Stan’ Themes, practices, concepts not covered in class: ? shipping, fan fiction, and other queer articulations of fandom ? crack videos, remixing, and other vidding practices ? Multi-fandom

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.