Teaching Through Film: Utilizing Popular Criminology in the Classroom

Authors

  • Matthew C. Atherton California State University San Marcos Author

Abstract

As technology and media become more popular pedagogical tools for instructors, the discussion of using films as a way to help students understand criminological concepts is also growing. Using a conceptual framework of popular criminology, the author set out to explore the ways in which films can be incorporated into a unique course aimed at increasing students' understanding of criminological theory and criminal justice issues. The article is divided into three sections: a discussion of the design of the course, a discussion of specific films and how they were used in the course, and an exploratory analysis of student experiences in the course. These data show that when implemented in a thoughtful way, films influence student learning by reinforcing themes found in course readings, connecting theoretical issues within the films to issues in society, and inspiring students to reevaluate their previous experiences with particular films.

Published

2024-03-23