Description
This course invites students to become digital storytellers for a healthier, more interconnected world—beginning with the places they call home. Inspired by the ecological imagination of Hayao Miyazaki’s films, students will learn to create stories that restore relationships between people and the land, challenge extractive narratives, and spark a deeper sense of care, responsibility, and possibility.
Using digital tools—photography, audio/video for social media, and interactive mapping (StoryMap JS & ArcGIS StoryMaps)—students will craft original, place-based stories that explore Maine’s living landscapes, environmental histories, and regenerative futures. Projects center on narrative change, helping students reframe the story from depletion to renewal, from disconnection to co-evolution.
Disclaimer
In order to best accommodate student projects and course goals, the format, schedule or content for this course may be modified. In addition, student input may alter the content and direction of our work. In such case, changes will be made directly to this online syllabus, with in-class announcements.
Professor
- Joline Blais, Associate Professor of New Media
- 225 Boardman Hall
- Zoom / Slack
Please use Slack direct message to contact me–
it’s private and much faster than email - email: jblais@
Class
- T/TH 3:30-4:45, 130 Estabrook Hall
- Remote–if needed via Zoom
- 3 credit hours
Office hours
Required
- Website: http://umainenewmedia.net/nmd343/ You MUST be logged in to see ALL class content.
- Join (register for) the class website during the first class using your real name as username, and @maine.edu email (all others deleted for security)
- After you Join, use Login: https://umainenewmedia.net/nmd343/login (bookmark this)
- Canva, free version
- Adobe Express (Post, Page, Video) Free for Students
- ArcGIS, free with @maine.edu account
- Smartphone and/or DSLR camera
Recommended
- This list will grow based on student imput and/or suggestions.
How To Succeed
- Show Up & Do the Work
Missing class & missing work = zero. That hurts your grade fast—so keep up and turn things in, even if not perfect. A 65 grade will NOT lower your grade as much as a 0. - Freebies = Lifelines
Life happens. You get 1–2 chances to turn in late work, no excuse needed. Use them for when you really need them. - Absences Add Up You get 2 free absences. After that, each one drops your attendance grade by 2 points (out of 30%). No distinction between excused/unexcused—you’re in charge of managing your time. Do check in with any challenges that are keeping you from succeeding. We can usually assist.
Learning Objectives/Outcomes
- Create original digital stories using photography, audio/video, and ArcGIS storymaps.
- Develop story skills for use in various media environments or platforms
- Have fun exploring and document Maine’s landscapes, communities, and ecological histories.
- Understand and apply the concept of narrative change to environmental storytelling.
- Develop skills for peer revision and giving and receiving feedback
- Collaborate with community partners and peers
- Publish and curate a public-facing digital portfolio that reflects growth as a place-based, media savvy storyteller.
Grade Breakdown
- 30% Class Participation, Attendance & In-Class Work (you get to drop 1 lowest grade, and make up a second)
- 20% Photo Story
- 20% Video Story
- 30% Rich Media Story
- All make up work must be completed within a week of due date, so you dont fall behind.
What Your Grade Means
A = Outstanding
Above-and-beyond effort, strong work, active help to/from peers, clear growth.
B = Very Good
Met all expectations, showed effort and thoughtful input, supported others.
C = Just OK
Did the basics, little extra effort or class contribution.
D = Slipping
Work mostly incomplete, little learning or engagement, low scores.
F = Checked Out
Missing or failing most work. No signs of effort or progress.
Bottom Line:
It’s easy to pass with steady effort. High grades take extra effort. It’s also easy to fail if you check out. Stay engaged, do the work, and ask for feedback or advice if you need it—we’re here to help you thrive.
SUCCESS CHECKLIST
Being present with focused attention on your work and your classmates is key.
Show Up, Speak Up
Be in class, on time, and ready to participate. Attendance counts toward your grade.
Do the Work—On Time
Turn in assignments by the posted deadlines. Partial work is better than none.
Revise & Improve
Low grades? If you turn in work time, you may get 1-2 chances to revise or replace them—stay on top of your work.
Communicate Early
Missing class or struggling? Tell me ASAP. I’ll help if you show effort and responsibility.
Respect Matters
Listen actively. Speak thoughtfully. Support diverse perspectives.
Stay Focused
No phones out during class. Don’t multitask unrelated work on your laptop—do use it to expand your engagement with class work.
Be Ready to Work
Bring your laptop or necessary tools—phones alone won’t cut it for in class work. Use your phone when required for tasks or fieldwork.
Use Your Resources
Take advantage of TA office hours, tutors, labs, equipment, and campus support services.
Life Happens—Talk to Me
Illness? Family duties? Reach out early. I won’t grade based on personal setbacks, but I need to know to support you.
UMaine Policies
Covid 19: For more information see Black Bears Care Pact: https://umaine.edu/return/black-bears-care/
And: UMaine Covid 19 policy
• Academic Honesty
• Students Accessibility Services Statement
• Course Schedule Disclaimer
• Observance of Religious Holidays/Events
• Sexual Discrimination Reporting
Additional Policies
• Student Conduct Expectations
• Classroom Civility
• Inclusive and Non-sexist Language
• Copyright Notice for Materials Accessible through the Course Website
• Contingency Plans in the Event of an Epidemic
