Cultural Globalization & CanCon
Examining the influence of American media on Canadian culture and the role of 'CanCon' policies in protecting Canadian content.
Key Questions
- Analyze the extent to which Canadian culture is influenced or 'swallowed' by American media.
- Justify the government's role in subsidizing Canadian artists, musicians, and filmmakers through 'CanCon' policies.
- Explain how the internet and digital platforms have altered the consumption and production of culture in Canada.
Ontario Curriculum Expectations
About This Topic
In a globalized world, culture is one of our most important exports and imports. This topic examines the influence of American media on Canada and the policies the government uses to protect and promote Canadian content (CanCon). Students learn about the CRTC and why the government subsidizes Canadian artists, filmmakers, and musicians.
This unit also explores how the internet and social media have changed the way we consume culture, making it harder to maintain national boundaries. This topic comes alive when students can 'audit' their own media consumption and collaborate to create a 'CanCon' playlist or film festival, fostering a discussion about what makes a culture unique.
Active Learning Ideas
Inquiry Circle: The Media Audit
Students track their media use for 24 hours (music, TV, YouTube, TikTok). They categorize each item as 'Canadian' or 'Foreign' and present their findings on a class 'culture chart'.
Formal Debate: Is CanCon Still Necessary?
Students debate whether the government should still require radio and TV stations to play a certain percentage of Canadian content in the age of Spotify and Netflix.
Think-Pair-Share: Defining Canadian Culture
Pairs brainstorm five things that make 'Canadian culture' distinct from American culture. They share their list and discuss whether these things are being 'swallowed' by global media.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionCanadian culture is just 'American culture with more snow'.
What to Teach Instead
Canada has unique bilingual, Indigenous, and multicultural roots that create a distinct cultural identity. Using examples of Indigenous art or Quebecois cinema helps students see this diversity.
Common MisconceptionCanCon rules are just about protecting 'boring' government art.
What to Teach Instead
CanCon rules helped launch the careers of global stars like Drake, The Weeknd, and Celine Dion. Discussing the 'economic' side of the arts helps students see its value.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is CanCon (Canadian Content)?
Why does the government subsidize Canadian artists?
How has the internet changed cultural globalization?
How can active learning help students understand cultural globalization?
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