Semester.ly

Johns Hopkins University | AS.271.120

Environmental Photojournalism

3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

(4.12)

Environmental cognition, consciousness and communication are produced, reproduced, interpreted and remembered with the support of visual representations and, in particular, photography. Images increasingly structure our experience of nature, environmental problems, human-environmental relations, and ecological awareness. Students will review critical literature focusing on visual representation theory, the relationship between images and social change, and the history and typology of environmental photography. An understanding of modern environmental history, environmental issues and sustainability is required. Students will identify and investigate environmental issues facing Baltimore, participate in photographic critiques, and develop a final documentary project focusing on a specific environmental narrative. The class is designed with an emphasis on independent research and practice, interdisciplinary analysis, and application.

Fall 2013

(3.75)

Fall 2014

(4.5)

Fall 2013

Professor: Alexios Monopolis

(3.75)

93Students loved having the freedom to create and explore, and loved the course topic. However, students felt that the class lacked organization and structure, which did not inspire students to keep up with the work. Students suggested providing more feedback and incorporating more learning into the course, even though it is more or less an independent study. Prospective students are highly encouraged to take this course if they are self-directed and have any interest in the environment.

Fall 2014

Professor: Alexios Monopolis

(4.5)

Students praised this course for giving students creative freedom on weekly assignments, the emphasis on learning verses cramming for tests and the enthusiasm of the instructor. Many students felt that the structure and tone set by the instructor made the class one of the best they had taken. The worst aspects of the course included the lack of participation from other students which made in-class discussions very difficult. Suggestions for improving the class included starting on the final project earlier in the semester or giving two projects, providing a review of some photography basics, and providing feedback earlier. Prospective students should know this class and instructor were both highly recommended. Prospective students should have some background knowledge of photography and should know that students found that the more they put into the course the more they got out of it.