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COMU2150 | Final Essay Proposal Word Length: Variable (text and images)

Due: Sep 21, 2026 by 16:00 Brisbane time

Submit: via TurnItIn on Blackboard

Value: 15%

Overview

This assignment asks you to conduct a field-based analysis of a physical public or semi-public

space, documenting and critically interpreting how media forms in that environment construct,

regulate, or challenge ideas about identity. You will apply theoretical frameworks from the

course (for example, gender performativity, whiteness, posthumanism, etc.) to analyse the

media objects and representations, spatial dynamics, and embodied experience in that space.

You will submit two separate components for this assessment: the proposal (outlined here)

and the final analysis (description and rubric on Blackboard). It will be useful to be familiar with

both parts before you begin your proposal.

Note: You may not choose a singular, commercial establishment that is laid out in a similar

way across a franchise (for example Sephora, or Starbucks). You may, however, choose an

independent, unique retail location, like Avid Reader. You should also choose a small enough

location that you will be able to analyse its media objects in depth. So, for example, instead of

trying to analyse a whole building on campus, focus on one lobby or other area with a

significant concentration of media. If you have any doubt about the suitability of your location,

please consult with your tutor.

Purpose

1. To ensure students have a viable field site and a focused analytical direction grounded

in course theory.

2. To gain experience doing fieldwork and gathering evidence

3. To gain experience and skills in documenting fieldwork

Instructions

Submit a written proposal that includes (as notes, bullets, or a combination):

• A clear description of the chosen field site (location and rationale)

• Preliminary observations about the types of media that are visible and their placement

• Proposed identity lens or problem (e.g., gender binaries, racial visibility, queer erasure,

posthuman surveillance)

• Two course readings/theories you plan to apply and how they relate to your site. These

are your initial hypotheses. They do not need to be extensively argued or documented,

and you may find that you change your analysis as you progress in the assignment.

• Any anticipated ethical or access considerations

• 10+ original photographs (that is, taken by you for this assignment), each labelled

(e.g., “Fig. 1: Fitness ad near entrance”); Note: Photos should capture media objects

and the overall space they are deployed in. You don’t need 10 photos of 10 different

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media objects (though you can do that if you like). Aim for a minimum of 5 media

objects (broadly conceived).

• A spatial map (hand-drawn or digital) indicating locations of all documented media

texts. Remember the point is to document the space in order to support your analysis,

not to create a perfect or beautiful model! Messy maps are most welcome!

• 1–2 pages of field notes describing the exact location, time of visits, conditions

(day/night, raining/sunny, crowded/empty, etc. etc.) interactions, and anything not

visible in photos

• A reference list in APA or MLA style