We are all bombarded daily by numerous sources of media. When given a choice between media and some other activity, many of us turn to media, whether for entertainment, information or communication. It's a common belief that these choices are benign and that they do not impact our everyday lives and attitudes. Not so, says social psychologist Dr. Karen Dill.

In two insightful, informative sessions, Dill will draw on extensive research to show us how media influence us - and why we resist believing they do. She'll discuss issues of race and gender, social identity, violence and politics.

She'll also assess how "new media," like blogging, texting and other social media tools are affecting the way we communicate. Dill will highlight the importance of learning media literacy skills and managing our own consumption in a media-saturated world. Finally, she'll discuss new and emerging technologies that are widening the digital divide between children and adults.

Our Leader

Dr. Karen Dill is a long-time Hickory resident and social psychologist. She has given expert testimony before the United States Congress, has lectured internationally and has been interviewed by news outlets worldwide. She is the author of the single-most-cited study on the effects of video-game violence and is currently Director of the Media Psychology Doctoral Program at Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara, California.

Dr. Dill published her new book, How Fantasy Becomes Reality: Seeing Through Media Influence, in September 2009, through Oxford University Press. The book is available through Oxford University Press, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble booksellers. Reviews are available online.

For a complete biography, please visit Dill's website at www.drkarendill.com.

To Register

Seminar registration for How Fantasy Becomes Reality: Seeing Through Media Influence is available to adults by phone, mail or online through April 6, 2010. After April 6, please call Karen Summey at 828-324-6966, ext. 2008.

Click a payment option below to print out a registration form or to register online. To register by phone, call 828-324-6966, ext. 2001.

Cost includes lunch for both sessions. Cost is only $40 per person, or $35 per person for 2 or more registering as a group. Payment is due at the time of registration and may be made by credit card, check, or PayPal account.

Cancellation Policy

You may cancel your registration on or before April 6. After April 6, no refunds will be given; however, substitutions are welcome. We reserve the right to cancel this program in the event of unforeseen circumstances. If an event is cancelled for any reason, a refund of the registration fee will be made.