- Level Foundation
- Duration 12 hours
- Course by University of Colorado Boulder
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Offered by
About
In "Fandom, Community, and Identity in Popular Music," you will explore the intersections of fandom and popular culture using pop music as a framework. You will apply your skills of self-reflection and close reading/analysis to a few case studies of pop musicians and the ways in which their art inhabits and evolves in pop culture spaces. You will learn about what it means to be a music fan, and therefore to be a fan in general. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to express your creativity as a fan by making something to contribute back into your fandom. This project will ask you to apply your self-reflection and close reading frameworks, and will ground your studies of fandom and pop culture in your lived experience (both physical and virtual). Course-Level Learning Outcomes * Define and describe the dynamics of popular music and its relationship with fandom, popular culture, and digital media * Apply critical self-reflection and close reading frameworks through analytical writing and creative expression * Engage with pop culture and fandom communities by leveraging online platforms to make connections and synthesize learning * Reflect on your personal relationship to popular music, popular art, and how popular culture intersects with memory and nostalgia Course 2 Skills: * Analysis * Evaluation * Critical Thinking * Communication * Creativity * Close ReadingModules
Course Introduction
1
Videos
- Fandom, Community, and Identity in Popular Music
Pop Music Fandom and Case Studies
1
Discussions
- Share Your Music Fandom...
2
Videos
- The Shape and Scope of Pop Music Fandom
- Interview with Dr. Adam Bradley Pt 1: The Fan and the Critic
3
Readings
- The Shape and Scope of Pop Music Fandom Explained
- Beyoncé: A Case Study
- Taylor Swift: A Case Study
Curated Resources and Readings
2
Readings
- Choose Your Own Adventure...
- Optional Additional Readings
Definitions in Pop Music and Project Overview
1
Assignment
- Definitions in Popular Music
2
Readings
- Making Fandom Project Description
- Download the Self-Reflection and Awareness Framework Quick Reference
Close Listening and Cultural Change
3
Videos
- Close Listening and Cultural Change
- Interview with Dr. Adam Bradley Pt 2: Deep Listening
- Interview with Dr. Adam Bradley Pt 3: Pop Music, Activism, and a Call to Action
1
Readings
- Kendrick Lamar: A Case Study
Curated Resources and Readings
2
Readings
- Choose Your Own Adventure...
- Optional Additional Readings
Revisiting the Skills Frameworks, and an Activity
1
Discussions
- Activity: Favorite Song or Album Dissection
2
Readings
- Self-Reflection and Awareness Framework
- Close Reading and Analysis Framework
Project Preparation
1
Readings
- Preparing Your Making Fandom Project Submission
Global Pop Fandom and Case Study
1
Discussions
- Close Reading and Analysis Prompt
3
Videos
- Globalized and Mobilized
- Interview with Dr. Adam Bradley Pt 4: The 21st-Century Music Fan
- Interview with Dr. Adam Bradley Pt 5: Engaging with Fans in a Genre-Less Music Industry
2
Readings
- K-Pop and the Globalization of Pop Music: A Case Study
- Digital Platforms Spotlight: Patreon and Bandcamp
Curated Resources and Readings
2
Readings
- Choose Your Own Adventure...
- Optional Additional Readings
Course Content Review and Projects
1
Assignment
- Course Content Review
1
Peer Review
- Making Fandom Project
Conclusion and Applying Your Skills
1
Discussions
- Applying Your Skills in Your Community(ies)
1
Videos
- Conclusion: Globalized and Mobilized Pop Music Fandom
Auto Summary
"Fandom, Community, and Identity in Popular Music" is a personal development course offered by Coursera, focusing on the dynamics of pop music and fandom. Under the guidance of expert instructors, learners will engage in self-reflection, critical analysis, and creative expression through case studies of pop musicians. The course spans 720 minutes and offers foundational skills in analysis, critical thinking, and communication. Subscription options include Starter and Professional, catering to those passionate about music, culture, and community connections.

Christopher Haynes