Toronto Metropolitan University (2020-2021)

Completed a Major Research Paper (MRP) as part of this degree

Shortened Paper Abstract: Through a critical discourse analysis, this MRP argues that the digital afterlives of Coach Carter (2005), Glory Road (2006), and The Blind Side (2009) provide insights into the importance of education in the athlete-student relationship, racism of the past and how much has or has not changed, the formation of the family unit, and the issues that arise from using films as a teaching tool for Black pain. The digital afterlives of these films create space for a discussion about these insights, which is significant during a time of cancel culture as this culture contributes to the demise of critical thinking with its emphasis on turning the cheek to something that does not agree with one’s ideologies rather than responsibly and cognitively interacting with contrary views. To help stop this close-minded cycle and foster an understanding for how to critically examine films and other media texts, a media literacy assignment for middle school students accompanies this MRP.

Toronto Metropolitan University (2015-2019)