Humour, Satire, and Memes in Media

About

This intensive summer course explores the many faces of humour, satire, and memes, and their role in media. Blending academic theory with hands-on experimentation, it equips participants to critically analyse and create satirical content to help them navigate today's highly mediated society. Despite humour’s often unassuming façade ("it’s just a joke!"), it wields a powerful impact on society by challenging norms, exposing truths, and influencing public opinion in profound ways. The course combines group learning, practical output, and cultural immersion, designed to be both engaging and practical. By focusing on student-directed learning, including the use of Problem-Based Learning (PBL), teamwork, creativity, and cultural discovery, it promises a dynamic and enriching experience.

This programme is designed as a part of our Intensive 2 Week Summer School, where multiple courses from a wide variety of Masaryk University study programmes and departments will be offered. These courses will be arranged in an intensive and dynamic form, each working day there will be an academic session. In the afternoon and evenings students come together from across disciplines to enjoy everything Brno has to offer!

Course leader

Dr. Khin-Wee Chen

Target group

This course is targeted for bachelor and master students. The curriculum requires no specific previous knowledge. Students of all fields and degrees are welcome.

Course aim

By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Analyse and create humorous and satirical content, including political cartoons and memes.
- Understand the cultural and political impact of humour and satire in media.
- Engage with Czech culture through a blend of academic study and cultural activities.
- Present creative media projects that reflect their understanding of humour, satire, and media.

Fee info

The cost of this program is €1275. The cost breakdowns as follows: Tuition fees; Accommodation in Brno (12-26 July); Breakfast; Orientation; Daily cultural and social activities including welcome and farewell receptions; Saturday trip to one of the local Czech UNESCO sites; 24/7 support. Students should budget an additional €200-500 depending on their spending habits for food (lunch, dinner) and other expenses. Public transport ticket is in additional costs.