Technology+Representation,+Matt+Geiger

TOPIC: Positive Role Models In iCarly

After screening several episodes of iCarly, the question must be asked, do all the characters in iCarly serve as positive role models? There are many instances in iCarly that can be questioned if they are. In iCarly we see many forms of stereotyping in multiple episodes. Not only do we see stereotyping and negative representations, but many of the characters do things in the shows, that if children in the real world did this they could have very negative consequences. When iCarly uses technology and the internet, do they show safe ways and realistic outcomes for their creations of the internet?

METHOD: I am going to screen at least 5 episodes of iCarly to look and note the negative stereotypes and representations found in iCarly, I will also look for what kind of dangerous actions with the internet and technology the characters do, with or without negative consequences. I will also note if these consequences are realistic to their media creations. For every instance i find that they have contact with the internet, I will note what could have been a negative consequence that the show did not provide and how if children did the same thing, they could have a negative outcome. I will also look for the stereotypes, representations and negative media posted on the iCarly website. I will see if in certain episodes if these representations and stereotypes are more prevalent in some episodes and answer why. By the end of my analysis I will be able to come to a conclusion on each character if they are positive role models for their young audience.

EXPECTATIONS: I am sure i will find many subtle stereotypes and representations throughout my screenings. I am sure in some episodes these stereotypes will be much more apparent than in other episodes. I am pretty confident that I will find a a pattern and recurring instances of the same stereotypical representation in the show. Also I expect to find many instances where they do things in the show that turn out fine, but could have many negative consequences in the real world. I expect to find that many of the characters in the show can be negative role models.

I like the focus on negative consequences, Matt! you have the green light!