EARTHSYS 285: Community-Engaged Multimedia Environmental Communication

Course Description

This course uses the tools of multimedia production to address the crucial need for authentic community engagement and effective information sharing in solving environmental challenges. Students will develop and refine their skills in at least one of the following: photojournalism, documentary filmmaking, interviewing, and audio storytelling. Students will learn approaches to connecting with Bay Area community members and organizations, understanding their holistic needs through direct interaction and relationship building. By collaborating on real-world communication projects, students will create impactful multimedia content that not only highlights environmental issues but also offers practical assistance to community- serving organizations. This course emphasizes the importance of strategic partnerships, ensuring that students' work is relevant, trusted, and beneficial to those they aim to serve, ultimately fostering stronger ties between academia and local communities. The prerequisite of EARTHSYS 192/292 OR similar multimedia production experience is recommended. Students who have not taken EARTHSYS 192/292 may still be admitted via instructor consent. Enrollment is by application. Link to course application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScmNdfm4kpvGwQg_LtYa4keG4l9-OpkI0QrxVCAUb1qpA56mw/viewform?usp=dialog This is a Cardinal Course certified by the Haas Center for Public Service.