Dr. Carlos R. Mendieta

Carlos Mendieta is an Associate Professor in the Department of Media & Communication at International University Canada, where he teaches and mentors students across the School of Arts & Social Sciences. His academic work focuses on mass communication theory, examining how media messages are produced, distributed, and interpreted by audiences, and how media systems influence public opinion and social behavior.

Throughout his academic career, Carlos Mendieta has developed a teaching approach that connects classical communication theory with contemporary media environments, helping students understand how foundational theories of media influence still apply, and sometimes need updating, in an age of digital and social media. He encourages students to critically evaluate both traditional and emerging media effects research.

In his courses, Carlos Mendieta draws on media effects case studies, communication theory frameworks, and current research in mass media influence to help students understand the theoretical and empirical dimensions of communication studies. Students explore topics such as agenda-setting theory, media framing effects, audience reception studies, and the evolving relationship between traditional mass media and digital communication platforms.

As an Associate Professor within the Department of Media & Communication, Carlos Mendieta also contributes to curriculum planning that helps students understand both classical and contemporary communication theory. He works closely with colleagues across the School of Arts & Social Sciences to ensure that coursework provides a strong theoretical foundation alongside practical media literacy skills.

Carlos Mendieta places particular emphasis on helping students develop critical media literacy, recognizing that understanding how media messages are constructed and how they influence audiences is valuable across many careers, not just media production roles. He designs coursework that encourages students to apply communication theory to analyze real media content critically.

Recognizing that many of his students are working professionals studying online, Carlos Mendieta structures his courses with accessible theoretical explanations, clear analytical frameworks, and consistent opportunities for applied discussion. His approach to online teaching emphasizes building strong media literacy and theoretical understanding that students can apply across communication-related careers.

Students who study under Carlos Mendieta often highlight his ability to make communication theory feel relevant to understanding the media they encounter every day. His long-term goal as an educator is to help students develop the critical thinking and theoretical knowledge needed to support careers in media studies, communication research, and media literacy education.