COMM 255Digital Content and the Creator Economy

3 credits · Communications · Penn State

The creator economy -- the system of individuals making money through digital content -- is swirling with creativity, excitement and mystery. The rise of creators is changing how people get information, find entertainment and make consumer decisions. This course provides students with a concentration focused on understanding the creator economy and honing the skills needed to be a creator. Additionally, it prepares future communications professionals for working with creators to achieve organizational objectives. Further, the development of the creator economy presents multiple ethical issues in public relations and advertising that will be explored. The role of a content creator is highly entrepreneurial, and builds personal branding and storytelling skills, a growing importance in professional life. By the end, students will possess frameworks for sustainable content ventures that encourage research, strategic planning, ethical practices and active learning. The creator economy is a growing force shaping industries such as social media, news, entertainment, shopping and gaming. By de-mystifying the oft-glamorized world of creators, students will see beyond the spotlight's glare and be ready to ride the waves of change.