Brent Rust-Online activities change us
Brent had some interesting ideas about online communities and how we don’t portray our real selves. His point about the older generation being different because of cultural issues is correct. And the younger generations have moved from guarding to let it all hang out is also a good point. I am not sure about businesses still being run by traditional models as thing change so fast. I do think there are many new innovated small businesses that are owned by the younger generations. But I do think he has a good point about the over sharing and transparency. I would ask what has changed and transparency is so prevalent these days. I think he did a great job in presenting all the issues surrounding security, masquerading as others, and sexting. On location awareness, I find that issue somewhat disturbing. He made a good point that by responding to marketing ads through mobile technology, they know your whereabouts. I am not sure if that is what really bothers me or is it that they can manipulate the medium. Culturally, I would also point to what is lost from the shift. Great presentation!
Cynthia-Race and ethnicity-Representations in cyberspace
This was the most interesting topic I found today. That cyberspace gives unrepresented groups more choice about representation through the medium than anywhere else. Cynthia is on target with the lack of minority representation in the media. I remember all the actors in old westerns who played Indians! Most, if not all were white people painted up to represent Indians. I feel her argument is very clear on this because there are so many examples of racism in media today. What I would like to see is her final paper on why this is so important. The need for representation is always rooted in culture. I think society cannot progress without inclusion. Also, what impact does this have on our culture? I would ask what change would bring and how does that affect the predominantly white media. Great topic!
Neil Fastabend- Advantage of smart phones-Narrowing the digital divide
I like how his presentation focuses on developing countries and how mobile phones are narrowing the divide. His stats are interesting showing how many people rely on mobile technology. I wonder how long it will be before the naysayers give up the dependency issue and just accept the technology. I like he presented it as a hybrid space. It clearly delineates the difference of how society views space. His example of the guy who organized for the food shortage is a good support for the paper, a new use for the technology. Good focus on mobility and great presentation! I like the prompt to type!
Josh Cook-Internet Activism\Why is it necessary?
It is necessary in the real world for communication technology and this new trend in shaping political agendas. It is used for fundraising, lobbying, forming protest such as the WTO. But it has a dark side as well. The WTO protesters took over private property and basically held the police at bay for several hours. It could have turned rather violent. But that is no different than any other political activists who have a propensity for violence. I like the examples of the 2008 presidential election—Obama used social media to help him win the campaign. That is an excellent support for the paper. I like the issues of how online spaces are being used for activism for rescue efforts-Katrina and Indian Ocean. The importance of the medium I think is how it works for collaboration and what makes it different. I think you’re on the right track! Good job!
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Presentations-04/27/2010
Dan Anderson-Video games and communities
I am always amazed at the number of video gamers (Xbox live-20 million users). The notion we can play across digital mediums with anyone and anywhere is changing how we communicate. I like the approach that the enhancement in online environments is driven by sharing and the goings-on in the medium, not race or gender. I find it interesting that out of the gaming presentations, learning principles and networking online are correlated as positive. I hope more people realize that gaming is entrenched in learning and has endless potential to teach skills. I think his presentation is focused in Gee which is good. I think the opposition should be well defined as there are so many myths and connotations that are associated with gaming. All which are easy to gain permanency in peoples attitudes. I think Julie’s suggestion to elaborate on the theorists will help bolster the argument. Great presentation!
Mike Payne-Cyber crimes/real vs. virtual
I like that he started the class of with a practical example. I think it is out of the ordinary that cyber crime is thought of as worse than physical crime. It is not a correlation I am used to making. I thought the presentation was filled with a ton of facts and statistics but I had trouble with the so what? It is natural for people to be outraged by crime but it is everywhere. So what makes cyber crime worse? I think is probable to think if we move our lives to the electronic allure that crime will follow. I think it would be beneficial to take the personal experience out of the argument and focus on why this space is more significant than the other. I like some of the ideas he had on how to prevent theft and other crimes but how does that change us? Good presentation!
Lee Kidd-You Tube and perpetuating hate
I struggled somewhat with this concept as there were so many paths to chase. I agree with Maurice to on one thing, the project is trying to prove too much. I think there is an argument in all the research but again, taking personal conviction out of the argument and focusing on the facts of why You Tube is wrong for hate or political slander. I think he has a good foundation to build off of but there are too many issues that cloud the argument. With all the platforms for hate, You Tube is just another medium. I would ask why it grabs the spot light and what about the medium that makes it so significant? I also believe one can’t make people behave (hate mongers) but I think there is something to argument about the medium. Finally, as a big fan of the 1st amendment, that would be a good place for opposition. I like the idea of putting You Tube on trial as a matter of speech, and I think he has plenty of research to focus an argument on the medium being used for other than customary issues. Good job at fielding questions and taking some different perspectives. Good presentation!
Angel Almaraz-Bridging the digital divide through games
I like the concept of integrating learning into gaming through technology and making games more interactive. I think the argument is sound in Gee and using the critical learning, probing, and self-knowledge principals. The challenge is digital literacy and catching up to technology for some. But I find the proposal interesting in that traditional learning styles are so deep-rooted in the K1-12 system it will be interesting on how progressive schools are willing to be. She had great examples by First Lego League and how they promote math and science. I think the opposition should have a game designed for them so they can learn the benefits of gaming. I really liked the proposal and think the argument is strong!
Derrick Nelson-Bridging the gap-Mobile phone Technology
Derrick gave a fast and comprehensive presentation on mobile technology that makes one think. I like the idea that the technology breaks away from the tethered computer desktop and is revolutionizing information and communications. His argument is solid in McCann, Rheingold, and Carvin so I think he will have no trouble making a stand. I know he has a ton of research but is there statistics on how effective mobile technology is for closing the gap? So, great presentation and I learned a lot!
Kristen De La Rosa-Program Hope
I like the proposal on promoting-Access/ Knowledge, and safely on the internet. Also, I think it is a good point on how currently it is a masculine environment. I think Kristen laid out her strategies well and looks at literacy/learning to use tools/and acknowledges the lack of existing programs. It is great that it brings in field experts to learn presentations online and helps to bridge education/over sharing/ theft/ and resists cyber bullying. What a well thought out argument! Involving public schools/Parent nights/volunteer based/Raise public awareness is so needed! I think it faces huge hurdles at Kristen pointed out with the lack of volunteers/support/not available in every school/Access/no perfection in program/ and kids who slip through cracks. Great job!
I am always amazed at the number of video gamers (Xbox live-20 million users). The notion we can play across digital mediums with anyone and anywhere is changing how we communicate. I like the approach that the enhancement in online environments is driven by sharing and the goings-on in the medium, not race or gender. I find it interesting that out of the gaming presentations, learning principles and networking online are correlated as positive. I hope more people realize that gaming is entrenched in learning and has endless potential to teach skills. I think his presentation is focused in Gee which is good. I think the opposition should be well defined as there are so many myths and connotations that are associated with gaming. All which are easy to gain permanency in peoples attitudes. I think Julie’s suggestion to elaborate on the theorists will help bolster the argument. Great presentation!
Mike Payne-Cyber crimes/real vs. virtual
I like that he started the class of with a practical example. I think it is out of the ordinary that cyber crime is thought of as worse than physical crime. It is not a correlation I am used to making. I thought the presentation was filled with a ton of facts and statistics but I had trouble with the so what? It is natural for people to be outraged by crime but it is everywhere. So what makes cyber crime worse? I think is probable to think if we move our lives to the electronic allure that crime will follow. I think it would be beneficial to take the personal experience out of the argument and focus on why this space is more significant than the other. I like some of the ideas he had on how to prevent theft and other crimes but how does that change us? Good presentation!
Lee Kidd-You Tube and perpetuating hate
I struggled somewhat with this concept as there were so many paths to chase. I agree with Maurice to on one thing, the project is trying to prove too much. I think there is an argument in all the research but again, taking personal conviction out of the argument and focusing on the facts of why You Tube is wrong for hate or political slander. I think he has a good foundation to build off of but there are too many issues that cloud the argument. With all the platforms for hate, You Tube is just another medium. I would ask why it grabs the spot light and what about the medium that makes it so significant? I also believe one can’t make people behave (hate mongers) but I think there is something to argument about the medium. Finally, as a big fan of the 1st amendment, that would be a good place for opposition. I like the idea of putting You Tube on trial as a matter of speech, and I think he has plenty of research to focus an argument on the medium being used for other than customary issues. Good job at fielding questions and taking some different perspectives. Good presentation!
Angel Almaraz-Bridging the digital divide through games
I like the concept of integrating learning into gaming through technology and making games more interactive. I think the argument is sound in Gee and using the critical learning, probing, and self-knowledge principals. The challenge is digital literacy and catching up to technology for some. But I find the proposal interesting in that traditional learning styles are so deep-rooted in the K1-12 system it will be interesting on how progressive schools are willing to be. She had great examples by First Lego League and how they promote math and science. I think the opposition should have a game designed for them so they can learn the benefits of gaming. I really liked the proposal and think the argument is strong!
Derrick Nelson-Bridging the gap-Mobile phone Technology
Derrick gave a fast and comprehensive presentation on mobile technology that makes one think. I like the idea that the technology breaks away from the tethered computer desktop and is revolutionizing information and communications. His argument is solid in McCann, Rheingold, and Carvin so I think he will have no trouble making a stand. I know he has a ton of research but is there statistics on how effective mobile technology is for closing the gap? So, great presentation and I learned a lot!
Kristen De La Rosa-Program Hope
I like the proposal on promoting-Access/ Knowledge, and safely on the internet. Also, I think it is a good point on how currently it is a masculine environment. I think Kristen laid out her strategies well and looks at literacy/learning to use tools/and acknowledges the lack of existing programs. It is great that it brings in field experts to learn presentations online and helps to bridge education/over sharing/ theft/ and resists cyber bullying. What a well thought out argument! Involving public schools/Parent nights/volunteer based/Raise public awareness is so needed! I think it faces huge hurdles at Kristen pointed out with the lack of volunteers/support/not available in every school/Access/no perfection in program/ and kids who slip through cracks. Great job!
Friday, April 23, 2010
Presentations-Week 04/19/10-04/23/10
Mark Milton-Online Enabled Environmental Activism and Computer-mediated communications.
Mark’s proposed that cyberspace gives online communities the ability to become more aware of current environmental issues and provide a new platform for activism. I thought his idea was interesting in that Ecosnoop is a new form of “Watch Dog” entity that uses a digital platform to promote environmentalism. This is not a new idea but a re-invented concept of activism. The EPA, USFW, Green Peace, and many other watch dog’s now have a new platform in which to advocate. Mark indicated the use of electronic lobbying; live web casts, unofficial websites, email, online communities, and eliminates dependence on mainstream media. I would suggest exploring how Ecosnoop works, why it works, and how it given transparency to the global issue of environmental contamination and exploitation. It would be interesting to know what, if any, Ecosnoop has control over. I think the presentation was good and Mark brought something educational to the class.
Sara Fuentes-Presenting yourself differently
I thought her presentation was good and she had a lot of information for her paper. Looking at the virtual extensions of self compared to meat space is interesting in that we get to take a critical view of ourselves. In meat space we don’t carry the big mirror around and compare ourselves nor look at our portrayal of self. I think exploring representation of self in both spaces is important for her paper but I would explore why it is so different. Is our exposure more important in the VR space? I like the fact that Sara is targeting student opinions as well. Practical data brings validity to the argument. I think Sara did a good job with her presentation and research.
Cassie Lane-SM sites in the classroom/ Elementary ed. Major
Argument-Woogiworld and A Really different place should be used by teachers to enhance learning, in different content areas. Also draw students who normally are not engaged. I like the goals of these models in that kids lack many of the fundamentals. I think both sites are a good comparison to internet learning and I especially like that the learning components of government. I think it is a good proposal and I would look for collaborative sites that show outcomes from internet learning tools. I would also focus on Julie’s suggestion to state why these sites are good models and focusing on the teacher perspective. For the opposing I wonder if their argument against has to do with the demographics (age of opposing) or just a change in traditional models. Good presentation!
Dena Lacey-Social Media-Cyber Bullying
Social Media lacks privacy settings and is complicated with legal issues, copyright infringements, defamation of characters, and cyber bullying. Dena stated that regulation and enforcement is the biggest obstacle to overcome on a global scale. Whose job is it to police or regulate privacy issues? Governing body? Collaborative responsibility? She supports her argument with a broad scope though. The focus is on the Communications Decency Act-Amends federal code-Section 230, Megan Myers Cyber bullying act, Digital Millennium Copyright Act, and Phoebe Price case. Her argument is that there is no one to govern or enforce cyber bullying. I like where she is headed but I would focus on one issue and work with that. To play Devil’s advocate-I would say the first amendment protects the very essence of free speech. How is cyber bullying any different that promoting or expressing who or what you are? Of course it is wrong to bully anyone! But if we are to believe that: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances (Wikipedia), then how can anyone enact a governmental agency to protect against what is published or said on the net? Will a cyber law or entity enacted to prohibit bullying infringe upon or protect anyone’s rights? I think your argument will have to be real clear to convince the reader that enforcement should include a governmental entity. The first amendment is a good opposing argument in itself. I would take the stand to argue my point, and if it upsets the first amendment folks, then I think it would be a successful argument! Some interesting thoughts: http://www.edjurist.com/blog/some-preliminary-thoughts-on-cyber-bullying-and-the-first-am.html Good presentation!
Michelle Assink-Interfaces and designs are helping seamless transition to the virtual space.
Human Computer interaction-I found this interesting in that we do treat our machines with a humanistic approach. The implications on our culture is fascinating. Showing the emotional involvement and how it begins to blur the boundaries between the physical and virtual worlds will give credence to the argument. The examples of Second life and the interface that transform things to 3D are good. I think the cultural implications and how interfaces are being used is a good focal point. Good presentation!
Brittany Bogenreif-Mobile location-based advertising
Direct Marketing-The changes in how marketing is approached through mobile technology is interesting. The shift from the traditional snail mail, catalogs, kiosks, mailings and coupon advertisements to mobile locations-phones, internet, using GPS technology shows how profound the change has become. I think Brittany is on the right path with the focus on digital platforms and why location based interaction is revolutionary. I found very useful stuff in this study by IBM for marketing strategies and here is the link: ftp://public.dhe.ibm.com/common/ssi/pm/xb/n/gbe03189usen/GBE03189USEN.PDF
Mark Belben-Argument-World of Warcraft
Blizzard? Allow players to have more access. I found this an interesting topic as I have not played but have watched my nephew. So with limited understanding of the topic I found Blizzard’s changes WWC to make game appeal appealing. The game pushes the learning curve-Forcing players to rely on 3rd party sites. Well, I can see how important the issue is by Mark’s enthusiasm. I think he is on the right track and not knowing enough about the game, I can only say Good Presentation! I think you’re well prepared and informed.
Chris-Digital Divide fragmentation will grow in cyberspace.
Community fragmentation-Perpetuates the digital divide because rigidity of concepts, communities don’t intermingle, and isolation in the electronic village. I like the exploration of the divide being different by the way technology. I never thought of infrastructure of technology changing the divide so much as creating a bigger hole. I don’t think the Utopia will ever happen, and the tools developed in the future shed a different light on how they will affect cultures are fascinating. I wonder if the divide is closable after a certain point, and what does that mean for technology. Great presentation!
Mark’s proposed that cyberspace gives online communities the ability to become more aware of current environmental issues and provide a new platform for activism. I thought his idea was interesting in that Ecosnoop is a new form of “Watch Dog” entity that uses a digital platform to promote environmentalism. This is not a new idea but a re-invented concept of activism. The EPA, USFW, Green Peace, and many other watch dog’s now have a new platform in which to advocate. Mark indicated the use of electronic lobbying; live web casts, unofficial websites, email, online communities, and eliminates dependence on mainstream media. I would suggest exploring how Ecosnoop works, why it works, and how it given transparency to the global issue of environmental contamination and exploitation. It would be interesting to know what, if any, Ecosnoop has control over. I think the presentation was good and Mark brought something educational to the class.
Sara Fuentes-Presenting yourself differently
I thought her presentation was good and she had a lot of information for her paper. Looking at the virtual extensions of self compared to meat space is interesting in that we get to take a critical view of ourselves. In meat space we don’t carry the big mirror around and compare ourselves nor look at our portrayal of self. I think exploring representation of self in both spaces is important for her paper but I would explore why it is so different. Is our exposure more important in the VR space? I like the fact that Sara is targeting student opinions as well. Practical data brings validity to the argument. I think Sara did a good job with her presentation and research.
Cassie Lane-SM sites in the classroom/ Elementary ed. Major
Argument-Woogiworld and A Really different place should be used by teachers to enhance learning, in different content areas. Also draw students who normally are not engaged. I like the goals of these models in that kids lack many of the fundamentals. I think both sites are a good comparison to internet learning and I especially like that the learning components of government. I think it is a good proposal and I would look for collaborative sites that show outcomes from internet learning tools. I would also focus on Julie’s suggestion to state why these sites are good models and focusing on the teacher perspective. For the opposing I wonder if their argument against has to do with the demographics (age of opposing) or just a change in traditional models. Good presentation!
Dena Lacey-Social Media-Cyber Bullying
Social Media lacks privacy settings and is complicated with legal issues, copyright infringements, defamation of characters, and cyber bullying. Dena stated that regulation and enforcement is the biggest obstacle to overcome on a global scale. Whose job is it to police or regulate privacy issues? Governing body? Collaborative responsibility? She supports her argument with a broad scope though. The focus is on the Communications Decency Act-Amends federal code-Section 230, Megan Myers Cyber bullying act, Digital Millennium Copyright Act, and Phoebe Price case. Her argument is that there is no one to govern or enforce cyber bullying. I like where she is headed but I would focus on one issue and work with that. To play Devil’s advocate-I would say the first amendment protects the very essence of free speech. How is cyber bullying any different that promoting or expressing who or what you are? Of course it is wrong to bully anyone! But if we are to believe that: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances (Wikipedia), then how can anyone enact a governmental agency to protect against what is published or said on the net? Will a cyber law or entity enacted to prohibit bullying infringe upon or protect anyone’s rights? I think your argument will have to be real clear to convince the reader that enforcement should include a governmental entity. The first amendment is a good opposing argument in itself. I would take the stand to argue my point, and if it upsets the first amendment folks, then I think it would be a successful argument! Some interesting thoughts: http://www.edjurist.com/blog/some-preliminary-thoughts-on-cyber-bullying-and-the-first-am.html Good presentation!
Michelle Assink-Interfaces and designs are helping seamless transition to the virtual space.
Human Computer interaction-I found this interesting in that we do treat our machines with a humanistic approach. The implications on our culture is fascinating. Showing the emotional involvement and how it begins to blur the boundaries between the physical and virtual worlds will give credence to the argument. The examples of Second life and the interface that transform things to 3D are good. I think the cultural implications and how interfaces are being used is a good focal point. Good presentation!
Brittany Bogenreif-Mobile location-based advertising
Direct Marketing-The changes in how marketing is approached through mobile technology is interesting. The shift from the traditional snail mail, catalogs, kiosks, mailings and coupon advertisements to mobile locations-phones, internet, using GPS technology shows how profound the change has become. I think Brittany is on the right path with the focus on digital platforms and why location based interaction is revolutionary. I found very useful stuff in this study by IBM for marketing strategies and here is the link: ftp://public.dhe.ibm.com/common/ssi/pm/xb/n/gbe03189usen/GBE03189USEN.PDF
Mark Belben-Argument-World of Warcraft
Blizzard? Allow players to have more access. I found this an interesting topic as I have not played but have watched my nephew. So with limited understanding of the topic I found Blizzard’s changes WWC to make game appeal appealing. The game pushes the learning curve-Forcing players to rely on 3rd party sites. Well, I can see how important the issue is by Mark’s enthusiasm. I think he is on the right track and not knowing enough about the game, I can only say Good Presentation! I think you’re well prepared and informed.
Chris-Digital Divide fragmentation will grow in cyberspace.
Community fragmentation-Perpetuates the digital divide because rigidity of concepts, communities don’t intermingle, and isolation in the electronic village. I like the exploration of the divide being different by the way technology. I never thought of infrastructure of technology changing the divide so much as creating a bigger hole. I don’t think the Utopia will ever happen, and the tools developed in the future shed a different light on how they will affect cultures are fascinating. I wonder if the divide is closable after a certain point, and what does that mean for technology. Great presentation!
Friday, April 16, 2010
Presentations-Round 2
Katie Shaw-Digital divides in low-income schools
I thought Katie’s presentation was interesting in that many program implementations often focus mainly on the students. Incorporating the administration is a good start! I think the technology aspect needs to be understood from the top down otherwise the administrators might lack the vision it is going to take. I feel the education system is long overdue in supporting teacher’s and technology. Your project is taking a concerted approach in addressing the divide. The use of visual feedback (charts) is a good progression towards fostering support long term. I also like the idea of using conference time for families as well. Often making the family connection gives great insight to the child’s learning environment. I think it would be interesting to see outcomes of a program like this with intercity kids. Great presentation!
Beau Yancy-Gaming - What your mother warned U about
I thought this was a good subject to approach as there is so much misinformation and fear about gaming. The fact some kids or adults have seizures does not mean the gaming community as a whole is affected. If gaming led to depression every kid would be on Prozac! Technology feeds off gaming community is a good point and I think there is not enough awareness on how gaming impacts culture. I think society often confuses technology and gaming have no commonality and will always be separate entities. I like the surgery technology visuals and the military drones. I think it makes the connection that gaming is more than “play.” I think a good point to give emphasis is gaming has many facets and is evolutionary with the faster technology. Also, your point that gaming is no longer a pastime and its many applications in today’s technology is good. Great presentation!
James-Gaming
I thought your approach was interesting because people often do not think about the processes of gaming and learning together. I especially like the exploration into Braille and showing the patterning the brain does to work through strategies. I never thought about 3-D images in the brain and how we map images. Most of us just accept the autopilot process. Your point on representation and imagery becoming stronger through gaming is fascinating. And creating a new era of kids is interesting as well. Kids seem smarter every generation and I think you make a good point in the cultural changes it will have. Learning capacity and comprehension will give good support for your paper and I think you’re on to a great topic! Good job!
Hans- Social networks bridging the chasm
Well I think the sunglasses added the special effects! I like you’re looking at Silva and showing how social networks are more legitimate for schools and working environments. The 3 C’s is a good concept! I like your concept of content-Value correlated to content-Broadens content through connections. Create-Public spaces must be preserved in virtual reality. It made me think of how space is used and consumed. Also proposing that these will interact and bridging the gap of the “chasm” is a good support. Your argument that people interact and utilize content changes culture is interesting. I think a good point you made about connecting across borders. I think digital platforms are only going to get more complicated for some to migrate to, and the future of social media will help bridge that gap. Do you think social media plays a big role in bridging the gap of the divide for challenge (disabled) kids? I thought of this while you were presenting about how social media has opened doors to inclusion for all levels of interaction. Great job!
Spencer Towne- Games impact teens and young adults-Military
What roles do they play?
I liked your approach to how allusive gaming is in giving teens a false impression of actual combat. Often the military glorifies combat and gaming is a seductive tool. I think you have plenty of opposition in that the younger generation has an unrealistic view of the military at times. I think focusing on the tactics and how they build bad habits, enticement, and induce PTSD is good. I like that your contrasting the physical vs. virtual and the effects of both. I would definitely look at studies of social media in recruitment as a support. I would be interested to see if game simulations change the outcomes of real training. I like that you’re exploring the environmental aspects and how gaming creates desensitization. Do you feel gaming has any positive aspects to training? Good topic and presentation!
I thought Katie’s presentation was interesting in that many program implementations often focus mainly on the students. Incorporating the administration is a good start! I think the technology aspect needs to be understood from the top down otherwise the administrators might lack the vision it is going to take. I feel the education system is long overdue in supporting teacher’s and technology. Your project is taking a concerted approach in addressing the divide. The use of visual feedback (charts) is a good progression towards fostering support long term. I also like the idea of using conference time for families as well. Often making the family connection gives great insight to the child’s learning environment. I think it would be interesting to see outcomes of a program like this with intercity kids. Great presentation!
Beau Yancy-Gaming - What your mother warned U about
I thought this was a good subject to approach as there is so much misinformation and fear about gaming. The fact some kids or adults have seizures does not mean the gaming community as a whole is affected. If gaming led to depression every kid would be on Prozac! Technology feeds off gaming community is a good point and I think there is not enough awareness on how gaming impacts culture. I think society often confuses technology and gaming have no commonality and will always be separate entities. I like the surgery technology visuals and the military drones. I think it makes the connection that gaming is more than “play.” I think a good point to give emphasis is gaming has many facets and is evolutionary with the faster technology. Also, your point that gaming is no longer a pastime and its many applications in today’s technology is good. Great presentation!
James-Gaming
I thought your approach was interesting because people often do not think about the processes of gaming and learning together. I especially like the exploration into Braille and showing the patterning the brain does to work through strategies. I never thought about 3-D images in the brain and how we map images. Most of us just accept the autopilot process. Your point on representation and imagery becoming stronger through gaming is fascinating. And creating a new era of kids is interesting as well. Kids seem smarter every generation and I think you make a good point in the cultural changes it will have. Learning capacity and comprehension will give good support for your paper and I think you’re on to a great topic! Good job!
Hans- Social networks bridging the chasm
Well I think the sunglasses added the special effects! I like you’re looking at Silva and showing how social networks are more legitimate for schools and working environments. The 3 C’s is a good concept! I like your concept of content-Value correlated to content-Broadens content through connections. Create-Public spaces must be preserved in virtual reality. It made me think of how space is used and consumed. Also proposing that these will interact and bridging the gap of the “chasm” is a good support. Your argument that people interact and utilize content changes culture is interesting. I think a good point you made about connecting across borders. I think digital platforms are only going to get more complicated for some to migrate to, and the future of social media will help bridge that gap. Do you think social media plays a big role in bridging the gap of the divide for challenge (disabled) kids? I thought of this while you were presenting about how social media has opened doors to inclusion for all levels of interaction. Great job!
Spencer Towne- Games impact teens and young adults-Military
What roles do they play?
I liked your approach to how allusive gaming is in giving teens a false impression of actual combat. Often the military glorifies combat and gaming is a seductive tool. I think you have plenty of opposition in that the younger generation has an unrealistic view of the military at times. I think focusing on the tactics and how they build bad habits, enticement, and induce PTSD is good. I like that your contrasting the physical vs. virtual and the effects of both. I would definitely look at studies of social media in recruitment as a support. I would be interested to see if game simulations change the outcomes of real training. I like that you’re exploring the environmental aspects and how gaming creates desensitization. Do you feel gaming has any positive aspects to training? Good topic and presentation!
Friday, April 9, 2010
Presentations: Day one Argumentative Paper
Sheila: Gender Roles & Social Media
I liked the comparison between the different sites but was intrigued with the Star Dolls site. The fact people actually pay to look virtually better tells me vanity has made the transformation successfully to VR. I thought your presentation was well constructed with the focus of how gender presents or is perpetrated upon users. I wonder if gender is so innate that it can’t help but rear itself no matter the forum. Club Penguin is interesting in that attempting to establish a genderless sight seems to equate to perpetrating gender upon the user anyway. Giving the option of not having gender seems to invoke the need to find it through other means. I think exploring how the different genders “find” each other in the genderless arena is fascinating! Good presentation!
Maurice: Mobility & Agriculture
I found this presentation interesting as the farmer breathes the ebb & flow of life more so than most. I like how one piece of technology can rule the fields. I think you have good supportive resources and have thought through your project well. One thing that might be interesting is to see how local farmers in our region utilize technology, and do they value it versus the traditional ways that farmers have relied on for hundreds of years. I think some of the class suggestions on how they monitor soil and irrigation through technology would enhance your presentation. James made a good comment on how certain crops demanded higher levels of technology. That might be worth exploring as well. Great job!
Corrinda: Educating through gaming
I thought your presentation and research project is awesome! It is interesting how video games are so integrated with learning strategies, and many people cannot grasp that concept. I like that you’re turning this into a lesson plan, difficult! The memory game was a great interactive component and I particularly liked where the class began shouting out help for Dena in her quest for matching dinosaurs. That showed support that gaming incorporates learning and it takes cognitive processing skills. I think it would be good to incorporate studies of traditional learning modalities to newer strategies for contrast. I like that your comparing Gee to Gardner, that will give continuity to your paper. Great job!
Kathy: Politics & Social Media
I like your general concept of how Obama used social media to gain presidency over McCain. I think showing the strategies of how he used the internet to communicate his message is good. I was somewhat confused on your argument regarding traditional methods vs. the internet technology. I think Julie’s question regarding “So what?” is important in that what is so special in the process he used. That would be a great focal point. I think you have good sources and can derive and fine tune your argument further. I also like your statement on how politics have become a marketing campaign but how has that changed? Your background on Dean is supportive. I think you have a good start to your paper. Good job!
I liked the comparison between the different sites but was intrigued with the Star Dolls site. The fact people actually pay to look virtually better tells me vanity has made the transformation successfully to VR. I thought your presentation was well constructed with the focus of how gender presents or is perpetrated upon users. I wonder if gender is so innate that it can’t help but rear itself no matter the forum. Club Penguin is interesting in that attempting to establish a genderless sight seems to equate to perpetrating gender upon the user anyway. Giving the option of not having gender seems to invoke the need to find it through other means. I think exploring how the different genders “find” each other in the genderless arena is fascinating! Good presentation!
Maurice: Mobility & Agriculture
I found this presentation interesting as the farmer breathes the ebb & flow of life more so than most. I like how one piece of technology can rule the fields. I think you have good supportive resources and have thought through your project well. One thing that might be interesting is to see how local farmers in our region utilize technology, and do they value it versus the traditional ways that farmers have relied on for hundreds of years. I think some of the class suggestions on how they monitor soil and irrigation through technology would enhance your presentation. James made a good comment on how certain crops demanded higher levels of technology. That might be worth exploring as well. Great job!
Corrinda: Educating through gaming
I thought your presentation and research project is awesome! It is interesting how video games are so integrated with learning strategies, and many people cannot grasp that concept. I like that you’re turning this into a lesson plan, difficult! The memory game was a great interactive component and I particularly liked where the class began shouting out help for Dena in her quest for matching dinosaurs. That showed support that gaming incorporates learning and it takes cognitive processing skills. I think it would be good to incorporate studies of traditional learning modalities to newer strategies for contrast. I like that your comparing Gee to Gardner, that will give continuity to your paper. Great job!
Kathy: Politics & Social Media
I like your general concept of how Obama used social media to gain presidency over McCain. I think showing the strategies of how he used the internet to communicate his message is good. I was somewhat confused on your argument regarding traditional methods vs. the internet technology. I think Julie’s question regarding “So what?” is important in that what is so special in the process he used. That would be a great focal point. I think you have good sources and can derive and fine tune your argument further. I also like your statement on how politics have become a marketing campaign but how has that changed? Your background on Dean is supportive. I think you have a good start to your paper. Good job!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Shirky-Epilogue
Shirky-Epilogue
I particularly liked Shirky’s Epilogue in addressing or re-emphasizing the use of social media tools in the wake of crisis. The effectiveness and rapid ability to cross boundaries that were once closed in a sense are changing with social media applications. With the example of the Sichuan
Friday, April 2, 2010
Internet Activism-Blog #10
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQL8QfyzcMs
My recent research for 375 class has enlightened me to how powerful internet activism can be. I was researching copyright laws and intellectual property rights when I came across a compelling situation concerning the Nestle Company. They are one of the largest food manufactures in the world.
The Nestle Company is currently under a political social media war for their threats made towards Greenpeace, consumers, and outrageous behaviors from their PR department. Greenpeace has consistently put pressure on the chocolate bar giant to eliminate the use of palm oil in their food manufacturing, namely KitKat production. Greenpeace has declared that the production of palm oil causes deforestation of the rainforests. Then the environmental group Greenpeace made a parody video connecting Nestle to deforestation and destroying the habitats for orangutans. Nestle countered with a request to have the video pulled from You Tube (They agreed!); then engaged in a “whizzing” dispute with Greenpeace, and eventually with consumers via Facebook. Nestle cited that they have the right to protect their intellectual property and that it was copyright infringement to alter their logos. Consumers became enraged with Nestle and responded through their Facebook account. The video was posted on You Tube and now has gone viral due to Nestlé’s claim of copyright infringement. You Tube has removed the video but many video sharing sites have reproduced the material. Now there is another parody video of Nestle employees discussing copyright infringement. Another parody was produced incorporating the logo of Nestle KitKat bar, replacing the name with the word “Killer.” Nestlé’s Facebook page has approximately 93,000 friends and growing daily. Most are consumers outraged at the negative behaviors of Nestle. Nestlé’s behavior has snubbed thousands of consumers who are threatening boycotts of their products.
The corporate responses came in the form of threats and mocking consumers, making matters worse. At one point, Nestle posted the following quotes on Facebook saying, “To repeat: we welcome your comments, but please don’t post using an altered version of any of our logos as your profile pic – they will be deleted.”
When bloggers and consumers left advice for Nestle on how to embrace social media, they went on to say mockingly, “Thanks for the lesson in manners. Consider yourself embraced. But it’s our page, we set the rules, it was ever thus. You have freedom of speech and expression. Here, there are some rules we set. As in almost any other forum. It’s to keep things clear.”
And they went on with comments such as, “Oh please… it’s like we’re censoring everything to allow only positive comments.”
The PR did not stop there, and went on to correct grammar of the consumers comments, inciting a flurry of political demonstrations. This is when the social media political firestorm transitioned over to the physical world.
Nestle has retracted (at 90 MPH) their statements and apologized to consumers for their less than appropriate behaviors. The fallout from this incident will likely remain an issue as it demonstrates how internet activism can effectively bring global transparency to corporate America and its subsidiaries. Furthermore, Nestlé’s responses and behaviors will likely become a training video for corporate America’s social media departments on what does not work!
Do you think Nestle was correct in their claim of copyright infringement? Could this firestorm of internet activism been prevented? Thoughts?
Thursday, April 1, 2010
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