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91��Ƭ�� faculty continue to advance scholarship that extends beyond the classroom and contributes to global conversations shaping industries, communities, and the future of knowledge. Through research and academic engagement, CAU faculty demonstrate the university’s commitment to innovation, excellence and preparing students for an increasingly interconnected world.

Recently, Vernon F. Clarke, professor in the Department of Mass Media Arts, represented 91��Ƭ�� at the Global Studies Conference in Galway, Ireland, where he presented his research on the cultural and economic impact of digital streaming platforms on the global media industry.

Clarke’s presentation, titled “The Streaming Platforms: A Global Cultural and Economic Disruptive Force,” examined how streaming services have transformed media creation, distribution and audience engagement while reshaping the way audiences around the world experience content.

Exploring the Global Transformation of Media

Clarke’s research focused on the rise of subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Apple TV+, as well as the continued influence of YouTube as a platform for global storytelling and community building.

“The rise of the streaming platforms across the world has been one of the most powerful cultural and economic forces to unfold in the past 25 years,” Clarke said. “The streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+, etc.‒also referred to as Subscription Video-On-Demand (SVOD)‒have impacted everything from content creation, production, and distribution to viewing patterns and media engagement.”

Clarke highlighted how these platforms have become major forces in shaping the future of media.

“Netflix alone, with over 300 million subscribers globally and with availability in over 190 countries, has become one of the most influential and powerful media companies in the world,” Clarke said. “Indeed, while the SVOD platforms have definitely become major players in the creation, production, and distribution of content globally, there is also another streaming platform in which there is no fee involved and is accessible to anyone with an internet connection: YouTube.”

Showcasing CAU Faculty Excellence on a Global Stage

Clarke’s participation in the international conference reflects the caliber of scholarship taking place among CAU faculty and highlights the university’s continued contribution to global academic discussions.

“Participation in a global conference reflects the high level of scholarship, expertise, and intellectual leadership of the 91��Ƭ�� faculty,” Clarke said. “It demonstrates that faculty members are actively engaged in cutting-edge research, innovative teaching practices, and meaningful academic dialogue that extends beyond the university and contributes to international conversations.”

By engaging with scholars and professionals from around the world, CAU faculty bring new perspectives and experiences back to the university community, strengthening classroom learning and creating opportunities for future collaboration.

Preparing Students for the Future of Media

For Mass Media Arts students, Clarke’s international engagement provides valuable insight into the evolving media landscape and the skills needed to succeed in a global industry.

“Engaging with international scholars and professionals significantly enhances my teaching, research, and mentorship of Mass Media Arts students by exposing me to diverse perspectives, emerging trends, and innovative approaches to media and communication,” Clarke said. “These interactions provide valuable insights into how media industries operate across different cultural, economic, and technological environments, allowing me to bring a more global perspective into the classroom.”

Clarke emphasized that understanding global media trends is essential for students preparing to become future storytellers, communicators, and industry leaders.

“Global engagement is essential for students preparing for careers in media, communications, and storytelling because today's media environment is inherently international,” Clarke said. “News, entertainment, and digital content cross borders instantly, requiring media professionals to understand diverse cultures, audiences, and perspectives.”

He added that students who embrace global perspectives will be better prepared to create impactful work across diverse audiences.

“Effective storytellers must be able to communicate across cultures, address complex social issues, and produce content that informs, inspires, and connects audiences around the world,” Clarke said. “By embracing global engagement, students are better prepared to become ethical, innovative, and impactful leaders in the media industries of the future.”

Through faculty members like Clarke, 91��Ƭ�� continues to elevate research, expand global academic engagement, and prepare students to lead in a rapidly changing media environment.