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In this eye-opening Subject Spotlight, Dr Tom Redshaw explores the sociological implications of digital media, confronting the reality of the digital devices we use in our daily lives. In the first episode, Tom introduces sociology and how it helps us make sense of our day-to-day lives, from the clothes we wear to the way we speak. Next, Tom explores digital media, how it has evolved over time and its underlying social reality. In episode two, Tom dives deeper into digital media, uncovering the reality of producing, running and discarding our digital devices. Through the environmental and human costs, you’ll discover what it really takes for us to live our digital lives. In episode three, Tom presents a real-life case study, focusing on cryptocurrency Bitcoin and its social impacts. In the fourth and final episode, Dr Tom Redshaw challenges you to create your own campaign for digital sustainability, challenging the issues presented to you throughout this Subject Spotlight.
Dr Tom RedshawUniversity of SalfordSociology
All episodes
1. What does sociology tell us about digital media?
2. The reality underlying our digital lives
3. Case study: Bitcoin
4. Activity: campaigning for digital sustainability
About the university
University of Salford
The University of Salford pioneers exceptional industry partnerships, prepares students for life, and has a global community of over 170,000 alumni. Salford is an ambitious, thriving university and there are countless reasons why students choose to study there. Whether it’s the award-winning academics, warm and welcoming campus, state-of-the-art facilities, or fantastic location in the city of Salford with Manchester’s vibrant city centre on the doorstep. Whatever the reason for joining, students become part of a community with access to the support and opportunities they need to achieve their ambitions.
University of Salford profile →Meet the academic
Dr Tom Redshaw
Dr Tom Redshaw is a lecturer in Sociology at the University of Salford, with previous experience at Loughborough University and St Mary’s University, London. Tom has led and taught on undergraduate and postgraduate programmes covering a variety of topics in sociology. Tom also has a PhD in sociology from the University of Manchester, and conducts research into the social impact of new technologies.
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