1. Who is Judith Miller? Should the United States have a federal shield law protect reporters?
- Judith Miller is a former New York Times reporter who does not believe that as a reporter, she nor anyone else is above the law. She strongly felt that being a reporter, was the key form of government watch dogs. She had to spend 85 days in jail for refusing to testify about her confidentiality sources in connection with the leaked identity of the CIA operative, Valerie Plame.
5. What do you think of the current movie rating system? Should it be changed? Why or why not?
- I believe the current rating system is quite accurate. I know that the system will not be pleased by all, but in my opinion it does not need to be changed. The movies I watch are rated R because I am of age and in those type of movies, they need to be rated R because of the material that is the movie. Most individuals, mainly the parents are concerned with their children. I believe that if parents raise questions about a certain movie than don't let the children watch the movie. The rating system was designed for a particular reason and the viewers should follow the guidelines.
6. Should the Fairness Doctrine be revived? Why or why not?
- The fairness doctrine was well developed an does not need to be revived. The importance of the doctrine was to minimize any possible restrictions on free speech caused by limited access to broadcasts outlets. The general idea was to have coverage of controversial issues of public importance. The doctrine was all for being fair on the radio as well as TV. I do not believe it should be revived, I only believe it should be upheld by the government.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
chapter 15 Questioning the Media:
1. What are your main concerns or criticisms about the state of media studies at your college or university?
- My main concern would be how strong is the mass media department. I would be concerned if the faculty is truly passionate about the media studies that they would be teaching. Some teachers, are more concerned with paychecks and grades, while others connect with students in a different way. If I majored in mass media or communications, I would want to know would there be any special program I could enroll in. Another concern of mine is about the newspaper department. I would want to know how to join the team and get involved. A few criticisms I have are about the mass media study department here at LR.The newspaper comes out at random times of the year. I open up the paper and I see the same faces in almost every paper and in every section of the paper. I also see the same quotes and interviews from the same individuals. The paper should have a variety of different types of people and activities.
3. Can you think of an issue that media industry and academic researchers could study together?
- I believe an issue they would be able study together is the field of young children. I would want to know the effects of sitting young children in front of the TV at a young age. Also, if TV is really safe for children or should it be monitored all the time? When it comes to my nephews, I am more than aware of what they are exposed to on TV. All the TVs are set to block off all channels that are not suitable for them. I tend to not leave them in front of a TV because the TV is a lot for them to take in and to capture. My last issue would be to research if music in the classroom can benefit kids with learning and progressing. The advantage of listening to my ipod in class is that it helped improve my grades. I was able to grasp material better while listening to music because I am focused.
4. In looking at media courses in a college curriculum, what do you think the relationship is between theory and practice?
- I believe the relationship between theory and practice is that an individual can have a problem and in hopes of finding a solution. The theory would be the problem that is needing to be researched and the practice would be the steps taken to reach and prove the theory right or wrong. The courses do belong in a liberal arts college because the students studying at such schools need the practice to be sure they are ready to step into careers well prepared. Having a separate communication college would cause problems because how would the school be funded and also the students would have to find a way to go from the liberal to the communication college. The communication would be a good place for internships and for students to reach higher promotions and opportunities.
- My main concern would be how strong is the mass media department. I would be concerned if the faculty is truly passionate about the media studies that they would be teaching. Some teachers, are more concerned with paychecks and grades, while others connect with students in a different way. If I majored in mass media or communications, I would want to know would there be any special program I could enroll in. Another concern of mine is about the newspaper department. I would want to know how to join the team and get involved. A few criticisms I have are about the mass media study department here at LR.The newspaper comes out at random times of the year. I open up the paper and I see the same faces in almost every paper and in every section of the paper. I also see the same quotes and interviews from the same individuals. The paper should have a variety of different types of people and activities.
3. Can you think of an issue that media industry and academic researchers could study together?
- I believe an issue they would be able study together is the field of young children. I would want to know the effects of sitting young children in front of the TV at a young age. Also, if TV is really safe for children or should it be monitored all the time? When it comes to my nephews, I am more than aware of what they are exposed to on TV. All the TVs are set to block off all channels that are not suitable for them. I tend to not leave them in front of a TV because the TV is a lot for them to take in and to capture. My last issue would be to research if music in the classroom can benefit kids with learning and progressing. The advantage of listening to my ipod in class is that it helped improve my grades. I was able to grasp material better while listening to music because I am focused.
4. In looking at media courses in a college curriculum, what do you think the relationship is between theory and practice?
- I believe the relationship between theory and practice is that an individual can have a problem and in hopes of finding a solution. The theory would be the problem that is needing to be researched and the practice would be the steps taken to reach and prove the theory right or wrong. The courses do belong in a liberal arts college because the students studying at such schools need the practice to be sure they are ready to step into careers well prepared. Having a separate communication college would cause problems because how would the school be funded and also the students would have to find a way to go from the liberal to the communication college. The communication would be a good place for internships and for students to reach higher promotions and opportunities.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Chapter 13 Questioning the Media
1. Are you exposed to popular culture from other countries? Why or Why not?
- I would say I am exposed to popular culture from other countries. In the school systems, schools now offer different types of languages taught to expand the knowledge and theory of being bilingual. When I was in high school and even in college, I had the opportunity to learn about the spanish culture. I learned about the language, the countries, the types of music and dances. I was exposed to a lot of information, but it was educational and I liked the class and the culture. Most people may feel uncomfortable stepping out of the comfort zone and trying something different, but I am not that type of person. Another way I am exposed is having the different types of foods offered here. In America, there is not only american based foods. There is a variety offered and I can go places for chinese, italian, japanese and even arubian foods. Having these type of choices can give a consumer a way to embrace other cultural foods from different places. My last exposure to other countries is the music. I can go to local music stores or online and I can hear different genres and styles from non-american artists. Overall, I feel it is important to embrace other countries and to be open minded.
2. Do you read international news? Why or why not?
- I read international news because I feel it's more than important to know what is going on in other places. Things that happen in other countries can affect America in some way. When things happen, America is always on call for help and relief. It is truly a good way to show that a country cares and can be supportive during the rough times. The latest news about the earthquake in Japan was drastic and horrifying. I watched the heavy waters destroy the land as well as take away houses and cars. Despite the country, we are still human and we all hurt, feel pain, and bleed the same way. It is always a good approach to read and know what is going on in other places to be informed.
5. Is there such a thing as a global village? What does this concept mean to you?
- I believe there is a such thing as a global village. There is one that I believe exist here in America as well as in our surrounding neighborhoods and communities. The word is described as the home of all nations and people living interdependently. In comparison with my home, we have different types of people living here but we are all different. I would consider America, the home of all nations because we have different social groups, races, and nationalities. We all have different roles and lifestyles, but we help each other and depend on one another to survive.
- I would say I am exposed to popular culture from other countries. In the school systems, schools now offer different types of languages taught to expand the knowledge and theory of being bilingual. When I was in high school and even in college, I had the opportunity to learn about the spanish culture. I learned about the language, the countries, the types of music and dances. I was exposed to a lot of information, but it was educational and I liked the class and the culture. Most people may feel uncomfortable stepping out of the comfort zone and trying something different, but I am not that type of person. Another way I am exposed is having the different types of foods offered here. In America, there is not only american based foods. There is a variety offered and I can go places for chinese, italian, japanese and even arubian foods. Having these type of choices can give a consumer a way to embrace other cultural foods from different places. My last exposure to other countries is the music. I can go to local music stores or online and I can hear different genres and styles from non-american artists. Overall, I feel it is important to embrace other countries and to be open minded.
2. Do you read international news? Why or why not?
- I read international news because I feel it's more than important to know what is going on in other places. Things that happen in other countries can affect America in some way. When things happen, America is always on call for help and relief. It is truly a good way to show that a country cares and can be supportive during the rough times. The latest news about the earthquake in Japan was drastic and horrifying. I watched the heavy waters destroy the land as well as take away houses and cars. Despite the country, we are still human and we all hurt, feel pain, and bleed the same way. It is always a good approach to read and know what is going on in other places to be informed.
5. Is there such a thing as a global village? What does this concept mean to you?
- I believe there is a such thing as a global village. There is one that I believe exist here in America as well as in our surrounding neighborhoods and communities. The word is described as the home of all nations and people living interdependently. In comparison with my home, we have different types of people living here but we are all different. I would consider America, the home of all nations because we have different social groups, races, and nationalities. We all have different roles and lifestyles, but we help each other and depend on one another to survive.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Chapter 12 -Questioning the Media-
1. What do you think of when you hear the term public relations? What images come to mind? Where did these impressions come from?
- When I think of the term public relations a few ideas generate in my mind. I think like an average individual and believes it has something to do with the general public and how the public operates. I also believe it is how the public carries a certain relationship with a certain company and having certain standards to portray. A few images that come to mind with public relations is the business attire and the idea of unity. The public relationships field is a type of business with respect and integrity. These images come from movies that I've watched and from people I have come in contact with that have worked in the field. At one time, it was a field I wanted to try to get into. I did my research and everything about the field was exactly the way I believe it was.
2. What might a college or university do to improve public relations with homeowners on the end of a campus who have to deal with noisy student parties and a shortage of parking spaces?
- A college and/or universities can do a great deal to improve public relations with homeowners. I came up with a few ideas of my own. For the loud noises, I agree that the neighbors should work on an agreement plan, that way the college individuals can still have fun and the neighbors can still keep the peace and harmony. I feel it would be accurate if colleges were within a certain distance away from neighborhoods, creating a sound barrier between the two. Another solution would be to have all students parking to have a parking pass. That way only certain drivers would be allow to park in certain spots and for the ones that do not have a pass, would be towed. That idea sounds general and fair because an individual should not part where he/she is not allowed to. In either situation, a respectable approach is still necessary. Both parties do have a right to want to be loud and want to keep things calm and quiet. The neighbors also have a right to be able to come home and not see their driveway blocked by cars. In an regards, the number one issue is safety. The neighborhoods which are the community need to work together with the colleges/universities to make sure that safety is always practiced and maintained.
5. Besides the Exxon Valdez and the Tylenol cases cited in this chapter, investigate and research a PR crisis. How was the crisis handled?
- The PR crisis I chose to write about is the big E Coli scare. After reading about the case, I seen that it was nationwide crisis. The crisis mainly hit in the western part of the country, mainly in California. Many produce farming companies were in jeopardy of bagging and selling "tainted" spinach. The issue resulted in deaths of over 150 consumers and sickened a few others. Luckily, the tainted spinach was pulled off shelves of local markets, grocery stores, and school cafeterias. The blame was not aimed mainly at the spinach, but towards the cattle and the farming livestock process. Government inspectors and food safety experts made it their mission to decrease the chances of the E coli situation coming back as well as other bacterial matter. They made sure the farmers as well as bagging/shipping companies were following safety regulations to ensure a product of quality is being bought and consumed.
- When I think of the term public relations a few ideas generate in my mind. I think like an average individual and believes it has something to do with the general public and how the public operates. I also believe it is how the public carries a certain relationship with a certain company and having certain standards to portray. A few images that come to mind with public relations is the business attire and the idea of unity. The public relationships field is a type of business with respect and integrity. These images come from movies that I've watched and from people I have come in contact with that have worked in the field. At one time, it was a field I wanted to try to get into. I did my research and everything about the field was exactly the way I believe it was.
2. What might a college or university do to improve public relations with homeowners on the end of a campus who have to deal with noisy student parties and a shortage of parking spaces?
- A college and/or universities can do a great deal to improve public relations with homeowners. I came up with a few ideas of my own. For the loud noises, I agree that the neighbors should work on an agreement plan, that way the college individuals can still have fun and the neighbors can still keep the peace and harmony. I feel it would be accurate if colleges were within a certain distance away from neighborhoods, creating a sound barrier between the two. Another solution would be to have all students parking to have a parking pass. That way only certain drivers would be allow to park in certain spots and for the ones that do not have a pass, would be towed. That idea sounds general and fair because an individual should not part where he/she is not allowed to. In either situation, a respectable approach is still necessary. Both parties do have a right to want to be loud and want to keep things calm and quiet. The neighbors also have a right to be able to come home and not see their driveway blocked by cars. In an regards, the number one issue is safety. The neighborhoods which are the community need to work together with the colleges/universities to make sure that safety is always practiced and maintained.
5. Besides the Exxon Valdez and the Tylenol cases cited in this chapter, investigate and research a PR crisis. How was the crisis handled?
- The PR crisis I chose to write about is the big E Coli scare. After reading about the case, I seen that it was nationwide crisis. The crisis mainly hit in the western part of the country, mainly in California. Many produce farming companies were in jeopardy of bagging and selling "tainted" spinach. The issue resulted in deaths of over 150 consumers and sickened a few others. Luckily, the tainted spinach was pulled off shelves of local markets, grocery stores, and school cafeterias. The blame was not aimed mainly at the spinach, but towards the cattle and the farming livestock process. Government inspectors and food safety experts made it their mission to decrease the chances of the E coli situation coming back as well as other bacterial matter. They made sure the farmers as well as bagging/shipping companies were following safety regulations to ensure a product of quality is being bought and consumed.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Chapter 11 Questioning the Media
1. What is your earliest recollection of watching a television commercial? Do you have a favorite ad? A most despised ad? What is it about thse ads that you particularly like or dislike?
- My earliest recollection of commercials were towards the food industry. I remember sitting in front of the tv and watching the McDonald's kids meal commercials. Their commercials were definatly suited towards the younger kids. I would always remember McDonalds having the best toys and chicken nuggets. Everytime the toys would change, I had to be sure to get the newest toys. For a short time period, I collected the toys. My friends and I considered ourselves to be cool because we would play with our toys at school. My favorite type of ads are the ones that send a strong message to the audience. My favorite ads are the "Foundation for a Better Life" messages. Even though, the commercials are not trying to sell anything, they are encouraging strong values of life that are priceless. Each commercial I see, I try to use that specific message and add it into my daily life and routines. These are the types of commercials that the youth of America should be watching instead of the ones about bad behavior, drugs, and alcohol. There are also certain ads that I despise quite well. These ads are not my favorite type of commercials. The ads I don't prefer are the ones that talk about cigarettes and drinking. These type commercials targer the adult and older crowd and try to persuad the consumers and watchers taht all the "cool" adults drink particular beers and do certain activities.
2. Why are so many people critical of advertising?
- I believe people are critical towards advertisement because they are so opinionated. We, as a people have a right to be opinionated. Whether an ad is good or bad, individuals will always have an opinion about it. There are ads out now that I believe are very well put together and creative with the use of media and technology. There are also ads that are plain, cut, and dry. People use ads in order to market or sell particular products or merchandise. The average person may hear about ads on tv, radio, newspaper, or on bulletin boards while driving down the highway. I can never see myself approving of any ads about drinking, smoking, or drugs. I also learned that some ads can be misleading. It's hard to believe what ads are valid and which ads are fake. The most invalid ads are the exercise ads and the ones about taking diet pills and the weight will "fall off" and "disappear." A person has to know what to believe and what is not true. An ad can please some people, but it won't please everybody.
4. Should advertising aimed at children be regulated?
- I strongly believe advertisement aimed at children should be regulated. I believe that commercials should be brought to the head people of tv networks, than it should be approved of whether or not it is good enough to be televised. I have young siblings and nephews, and that last thing I would want them to see is a commercial they shouldn't be looking at. If an ad it focused towards children than it should highlight playing with toys or something educational. When I watch my nephews, I have my tv set to show very little commercials. I also let them watch shows on NickJr and Playhouse Disney. I know those type of shows are for them and that the commercials are targeted towards their age group.
- My earliest recollection of commercials were towards the food industry. I remember sitting in front of the tv and watching the McDonald's kids meal commercials. Their commercials were definatly suited towards the younger kids. I would always remember McDonalds having the best toys and chicken nuggets. Everytime the toys would change, I had to be sure to get the newest toys. For a short time period, I collected the toys. My friends and I considered ourselves to be cool because we would play with our toys at school. My favorite type of ads are the ones that send a strong message to the audience. My favorite ads are the "Foundation for a Better Life" messages. Even though, the commercials are not trying to sell anything, they are encouraging strong values of life that are priceless. Each commercial I see, I try to use that specific message and add it into my daily life and routines. These are the types of commercials that the youth of America should be watching instead of the ones about bad behavior, drugs, and alcohol. There are also certain ads that I despise quite well. These ads are not my favorite type of commercials. The ads I don't prefer are the ones that talk about cigarettes and drinking. These type commercials targer the adult and older crowd and try to persuad the consumers and watchers taht all the "cool" adults drink particular beers and do certain activities.
2. Why are so many people critical of advertising?
- I believe people are critical towards advertisement because they are so opinionated. We, as a people have a right to be opinionated. Whether an ad is good or bad, individuals will always have an opinion about it. There are ads out now that I believe are very well put together and creative with the use of media and technology. There are also ads that are plain, cut, and dry. People use ads in order to market or sell particular products or merchandise. The average person may hear about ads on tv, radio, newspaper, or on bulletin boards while driving down the highway. I can never see myself approving of any ads about drinking, smoking, or drugs. I also learned that some ads can be misleading. It's hard to believe what ads are valid and which ads are fake. The most invalid ads are the exercise ads and the ones about taking diet pills and the weight will "fall off" and "disappear." A person has to know what to believe and what is not true. An ad can please some people, but it won't please everybody.
4. Should advertising aimed at children be regulated?
- I strongly believe advertisement aimed at children should be regulated. I believe that commercials should be brought to the head people of tv networks, than it should be approved of whether or not it is good enough to be televised. I have young siblings and nephews, and that last thing I would want them to see is a commercial they shouldn't be looking at. If an ad it focused towards children than it should highlight playing with toys or something educational. When I watch my nephews, I have my tv set to show very little commercials. I also let them watch shows on NickJr and Playhouse Disney. I know those type of shows are for them and that the commercials are targeted towards their age group.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Chapter 10 Question the Media
1. What are your earliest recollections of books? Do you read for pleasure? If yes, what kinds of books do you enjoy? Why?
-My earliest recollections of books was when I was younger. I had a wide selection of variety of Dr. Suess books. My mohter and grandmother would always read me a good night story before going to bed. I would always request a Dr. Suess book because they would make particular voices to really bring out the story. I had other books as well, but those books were boring to me. My favorite Dr. Suess book was "Green Eggs & Ham" because it will always be a classic child story. The books meant a big deal to me as a child because I valued the reading time with my family. I used to read often when I was in elementary and middle school, but that was because it was required to read a certain amount of books throughout the year. Once I hit high school, the reading process slowly faded out the picture. I would than only read for class, but outside of class I would not think about picking up a book. It was the process of becoming less productive and more lazy. Even now as a college student, my reading skills have not been much of an interest. I find myself making excuses as to why I don't read or couldn't read. As of now, I read things for class or when I'm looking up things such as information for homework or for a project. My favorite types of books involved some type of mystery. I enjoyed mystery books because the books always had a suspense behind the motives. I also liked non-fiction books because the books provided thorough facts that were quite informational.
3. If you were opening an independent bookstore in a town with a chain store, such as Barnes & Noble, how would you compete?
- If I were to open an independent bookstore in a town with Barnes & Noble, I would want to compete with the company. I would compete by having a more cool type name for my business. I would call my store either "Books & Stuff" or "Book Club." That way people would be able to remember the store name because it sounds more realistic. I would also try to create my very own mascot for my store. It would have to be a mascot that represents the power of reading and being a leader, I would choose a lion. On the inside I would provide low budget books, newspapers, computer labs, and also free wi-fi. I would also have a built in coffee shop with smoothies, drinks, and other snacks. In order to make the place more comfortable for everyone, those would be my ideas. Overall, it would be hard to compete with a company as strong as Barnes & Nobles because the company is well respected and established.
6. Would you read a book on an Ipod or a Kindle? Why or why not?
- I would not want to read a book on an Ipod because I used my Ipod only for my music. In today's technology society, Ipods have allowed an individual to do things such as reading novels on the Ipod, even though that does not work for me. I am the type of person that likes to highlight, make little notes, and write in my books to help study or remember things. I know things of that nature, I would not be able to do on my Ipod. I would consider myself to be an old-fashioned book reader. I prefer to have the printed materials in my hands because it would feel more reliable as opposed to an Ipod source. I would be more prone to misplacing my Ipod more than a book. I see a good amount of individuals who have their Ipods on them at all times throughout the day, those would be the ones whom would benefit from Ipod book reading. It may benefit some, but I know it would not benefit me.
-My earliest recollections of books was when I was younger. I had a wide selection of variety of Dr. Suess books. My mohter and grandmother would always read me a good night story before going to bed. I would always request a Dr. Suess book because they would make particular voices to really bring out the story. I had other books as well, but those books were boring to me. My favorite Dr. Suess book was "Green Eggs & Ham" because it will always be a classic child story. The books meant a big deal to me as a child because I valued the reading time with my family. I used to read often when I was in elementary and middle school, but that was because it was required to read a certain amount of books throughout the year. Once I hit high school, the reading process slowly faded out the picture. I would than only read for class, but outside of class I would not think about picking up a book. It was the process of becoming less productive and more lazy. Even now as a college student, my reading skills have not been much of an interest. I find myself making excuses as to why I don't read or couldn't read. As of now, I read things for class or when I'm looking up things such as information for homework or for a project. My favorite types of books involved some type of mystery. I enjoyed mystery books because the books always had a suspense behind the motives. I also liked non-fiction books because the books provided thorough facts that were quite informational.
3. If you were opening an independent bookstore in a town with a chain store, such as Barnes & Noble, how would you compete?
- If I were to open an independent bookstore in a town with Barnes & Noble, I would want to compete with the company. I would compete by having a more cool type name for my business. I would call my store either "Books & Stuff" or "Book Club." That way people would be able to remember the store name because it sounds more realistic. I would also try to create my very own mascot for my store. It would have to be a mascot that represents the power of reading and being a leader, I would choose a lion. On the inside I would provide low budget books, newspapers, computer labs, and also free wi-fi. I would also have a built in coffee shop with smoothies, drinks, and other snacks. In order to make the place more comfortable for everyone, those would be my ideas. Overall, it would be hard to compete with a company as strong as Barnes & Nobles because the company is well respected and established.
6. Would you read a book on an Ipod or a Kindle? Why or why not?
- I would not want to read a book on an Ipod because I used my Ipod only for my music. In today's technology society, Ipods have allowed an individual to do things such as reading novels on the Ipod, even though that does not work for me. I am the type of person that likes to highlight, make little notes, and write in my books to help study or remember things. I know things of that nature, I would not be able to do on my Ipod. I would consider myself to be an old-fashioned book reader. I prefer to have the printed materials in my hands because it would feel more reliable as opposed to an Ipod source. I would be more prone to misplacing my Ipod more than a book. I see a good amount of individuals who have their Ipods on them at all times throughout the day, those would be the ones whom would benefit from Ipod book reading. It may benefit some, but I know it would not benefit me.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Chapter 9 Blog
1. What are your earliest recollections of magazines? Which magazines do you read regularly today? Why?
My earliest memory reading magazines was when I read the NickJr and Cartoon Network magazines. These used to keep my interest because I always use to watch the cartoons on TV, but reading and looking at the pictures, made it much more interesting for me to keep my interest. The magazines have changed when I used to looks at them as a kid. Most of the time, I really look at magazines on a regular basis, but when I am able to I look at different magazines for my interest. For example, I am a kind of person that is really into music and keeping up with the music artist, so I try to read Word Up!
5. Think of stories, ideas, and images (illustrations and photos) that do not appear in mainstream magazines. Why do you think this is so? (Use the Internet, LexiNexis or library to compare your list with Project Censored, an annual list of the year’s most underreported stories.)
Many ads, stories, and illustrations aren’t show in specific magazines because of the content and the use of it. For example, there are specific types of content usage. There is a magazine called, King, and it promotes some sexual content. This would not be suitable for children who read NickJr and other kid magazines. There are many rules and regulations that the corporations need to follow. This goes for if the person wanted to advertise a picture or article. It is similar to the specific channels that should be watched on TV. Certain types of magazines with specific ads and pictures are for certain age groups.
7. Do you think the Internet will eventually displace magazines? Why or why not?
Magazines aren’t as popular as the Internet, but they still exist. Honestly, there are many different types of magazines that play a major part in this economy. For example, kids magazines are for entertainment and enjoyment. In my opinion I don’t feel that Internet would knock magazines completely off the market. Yet, I feel that it may slow it down. Magazines are very important and viewed by different age groups, its just used in different types of ways. In out day and age, we look at Internet for more of our entertainment at times, but we still look at magazines for informative as well as entertainment.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Chapter 8 Questioning the Media
1. What kind of stories, topics, or issues are not being covered well by mainstream papers?
- There are a few issues that are not being discussed as much as they should have been brought to my attention. My first topic would be the matter of education. There are problems in the education department, but the issues are not being brought out as a serious matter. Each year more standardized testing is being done with students. There are colleges and universities that increase tuitions yearly, the drop out rate amongst high school students is continiously rise, and in some states, some teachers are even being let go. These issues are too broad and drastic for anyone to ignore. Parents only dream for their kids to receive a well established education, but how can students get the learning and knowledge provided by the teachers if school systems are letting them go? All the prior issues have occured because classes are being over crowded due to the decreased amount of teachers. I remember at my high school, the school system cut back and let a few teachers go because of budget cuts. My class had to combine with another class because my teacher was let go. I felt bad for the teacher who had to take over both classes. She went from teaching 22 students to teaching 47 students. The real question would be, "Are we helping the students, or are we causing harm?" I can only hope things can become better. The newspapers are more focused on less realistic material and overlooking the valuable cases and issues. The school systems around the country have to come together and organize another plan that is best for the students.
2. Why do you think people aren't reading U.S. daily newspapers as frequently as they once did? Why is newspaper readership going up in other countries?
- I believe the people are not reading the newspaper because individuals do not know who or what to believe. The media is quite broad because there is too much happening all over the country. As a country, we are still dealing with the same issues such as unemployment, poverty, and the economy. The readers can only assume its going to be the same problems in the paper, only printed on different days. I believe the readers have become bored with reading the paper. As a reader, the paper does not attract me anymore enough to read. There is also the matter that the newspapers are not selling as much and remain on the stands. Many newspaper companies are going digital. Instead of printing the news, companies are posting the news online to make the news more accessible for the working groups. That way readers can catch up on the news while on the go. I believe the readership has increased in other countries because the other countries can possibly read what is going on in America. In some countries, the government is quite strict on releasing information such as the news. The people may not be allowed to know the news or watch the news on tv; therefore, they read the paper. The internet may not be a strong hold in other countries when it comes to access, the newspaper might be the only way to get information.
5. Will blogs and other Internet news services eventually replace newspapers? Explain your responses.
- I think they will replace newspapers because people are more internet based. People use the internet at home, schools, and on their phones. There are plenty of resources and ways for a reader to gather the news instead of relying only on the newspaper. The newspaper service can only go but to a certain limit. If the readers are not getting the papers from standds, the last option would be from the tv, but in this case it would be the internet. The blogs would not be successful without the internet being created, therefore; the blogs survive off the Internet. I personally do not tend to read blogs because the blogs they are individual's thoughts and opinions. The blogs can also be changed, deleted, or things added to it. I would not know what to believe. In due time, technology will take over and the newspaper companies will lie in rest.
- There are a few issues that are not being discussed as much as they should have been brought to my attention. My first topic would be the matter of education. There are problems in the education department, but the issues are not being brought out as a serious matter. Each year more standardized testing is being done with students. There are colleges and universities that increase tuitions yearly, the drop out rate amongst high school students is continiously rise, and in some states, some teachers are even being let go. These issues are too broad and drastic for anyone to ignore. Parents only dream for their kids to receive a well established education, but how can students get the learning and knowledge provided by the teachers if school systems are letting them go? All the prior issues have occured because classes are being over crowded due to the decreased amount of teachers. I remember at my high school, the school system cut back and let a few teachers go because of budget cuts. My class had to combine with another class because my teacher was let go. I felt bad for the teacher who had to take over both classes. She went from teaching 22 students to teaching 47 students. The real question would be, "Are we helping the students, or are we causing harm?" I can only hope things can become better. The newspapers are more focused on less realistic material and overlooking the valuable cases and issues. The school systems around the country have to come together and organize another plan that is best for the students.
2. Why do you think people aren't reading U.S. daily newspapers as frequently as they once did? Why is newspaper readership going up in other countries?
- I believe the people are not reading the newspaper because individuals do not know who or what to believe. The media is quite broad because there is too much happening all over the country. As a country, we are still dealing with the same issues such as unemployment, poverty, and the economy. The readers can only assume its going to be the same problems in the paper, only printed on different days. I believe the readers have become bored with reading the paper. As a reader, the paper does not attract me anymore enough to read. There is also the matter that the newspapers are not selling as much and remain on the stands. Many newspaper companies are going digital. Instead of printing the news, companies are posting the news online to make the news more accessible for the working groups. That way readers can catch up on the news while on the go. I believe the readership has increased in other countries because the other countries can possibly read what is going on in America. In some countries, the government is quite strict on releasing information such as the news. The people may not be allowed to know the news or watch the news on tv; therefore, they read the paper. The internet may not be a strong hold in other countries when it comes to access, the newspaper might be the only way to get information.
5. Will blogs and other Internet news services eventually replace newspapers? Explain your responses.
- I think they will replace newspapers because people are more internet based. People use the internet at home, schools, and on their phones. There are plenty of resources and ways for a reader to gather the news instead of relying only on the newspaper. The newspaper service can only go but to a certain limit. If the readers are not getting the papers from standds, the last option would be from the tv, but in this case it would be the internet. The blogs would not be successful without the internet being created, therefore; the blogs survive off the Internet. I personally do not tend to read blogs because the blogs they are individual's thoughts and opinions. The blogs can also be changed, deleted, or things added to it. I would not know what to believe. In due time, technology will take over and the newspaper companies will lie in rest.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Chapter 7 Questioning the Media
1. Describe your earliest memory of going to a movie. Do some research and compare this with a parent's or grandparent's earliest memory. Compare the different experience.
- My earliest memory of going to a movie was with my sisters and parents. I was around 6 years old when I first went. I remember being excited when we walked into the building. The first thing that caught my eyes were the lights and the sounds coming from the arcade. I wanted to play all the games, but my favorite was the game with the steering wheel. This was a new surrounding to me and I liked the enjoyment the arcade brought to me. Moving forward to the counter, I believe the theaters are quite wise when it comes to marketing. I spotted all kinds of candy, popcorn, nachos and a bunch of other junk foods. I was the right height to see it all. I yelled, kicked, and screamed until I got all the junk food a kid my age would want. The last step was making our way into the movie. There were plenty of seats to choose from, but I wanted the seats at the very top in the back. That way I would be higher than everyone. I looked at the screen and I thought "wow that is a real big tv." The seats were somewhat like lounge chairs and so comfortable. My mother told me I was into the movie, but slowly started to decline halfway through the movie. I figured it was because of all the junk food I ate during the movie.
- I compared my movie experience with my grandpa. He is quite the wise man and knows alot about history. He told me that growing up blacks were not allowed to mingle with whites when it came to movies. Also that blacks were limited to what/when they could watch at the movies. He told me they had drive in movie theaters. When a person would drive in a vacant parking lot and watch the movie on a big screen while sitting in this car. He remembers eating junk food and having fun with friends. He also remembers that some movies were in color, while others still remained black and white. I am glad that I have more options and advantages that what my grandpa had growing up.
2. Do you remember seeing a movie you were not allowed to see? Discuss the experience.
- A movie I was advised not to watch was the original "Scream" movie. My mother did not want me to watch the movie because she felt I was not mature enough to handle the materials in the movie. My mother knew I was too young and would have bad dreams. At the time, I wanted to prove her wrong. I had only seen a handful of horror type movies, but I knew this movie would be nothing to be scared of. I decided to sneak and watch the movie with my older siblings and cousins. I was the youngest out of the group, while everyone else was twice my age. I was calm during the previews, but within ten minutes of the movie, I was scared. I found myself under the covers and loosing control. It was hard for me to sleep alone because I would picture the "killer" coming after me in my sleep. I slept with my parents a few times to be on the safe side. I was lucky enough not to have any bad dreams. I knew than that I should have listened to my mother from the beginning.
3. How often do you go to the movie theaters today? How often do you play DVDs on a television at home, or watch movies on a computer? Which experience do you prefer and why?
- I have not been to the movie theaters in a while because I have not found the time to go. I work on a regular basis throughout the week and being in school full time can also be another hassle. When I was younger I would go to the movies almost every weekend with friends because it was something to do on the weekend. The prices than were more affordable for me to go often. When I did go I would eat a big meal before I went, that way I would not have to buy any of the high priced snacks. The prices of the theaters now are quite pricey for me to go. I am more than sure as the prices continue to rise, the revenue of the movie theaters will slowly decrease. I also have not been because there has not been any movies that interest me well enough to go. I normally wait for the movie to come out on DVD, I try to find it on the newest creation, Netflix. I usually watch DVDs at home and on my computer a few times a week. I prefer to watch the DVDs at home because there is no rush, no hassling, and I can watch them on my time. I do not have to pay the crazy prices when I can watch them for cheap on my computer.
- My earliest memory of going to a movie was with my sisters and parents. I was around 6 years old when I first went. I remember being excited when we walked into the building. The first thing that caught my eyes were the lights and the sounds coming from the arcade. I wanted to play all the games, but my favorite was the game with the steering wheel. This was a new surrounding to me and I liked the enjoyment the arcade brought to me. Moving forward to the counter, I believe the theaters are quite wise when it comes to marketing. I spotted all kinds of candy, popcorn, nachos and a bunch of other junk foods. I was the right height to see it all. I yelled, kicked, and screamed until I got all the junk food a kid my age would want. The last step was making our way into the movie. There were plenty of seats to choose from, but I wanted the seats at the very top in the back. That way I would be higher than everyone. I looked at the screen and I thought "wow that is a real big tv." The seats were somewhat like lounge chairs and so comfortable. My mother told me I was into the movie, but slowly started to decline halfway through the movie. I figured it was because of all the junk food I ate during the movie.
- I compared my movie experience with my grandpa. He is quite the wise man and knows alot about history. He told me that growing up blacks were not allowed to mingle with whites when it came to movies. Also that blacks were limited to what/when they could watch at the movies. He told me they had drive in movie theaters. When a person would drive in a vacant parking lot and watch the movie on a big screen while sitting in this car. He remembers eating junk food and having fun with friends. He also remembers that some movies were in color, while others still remained black and white. I am glad that I have more options and advantages that what my grandpa had growing up.
2. Do you remember seeing a movie you were not allowed to see? Discuss the experience.
- A movie I was advised not to watch was the original "Scream" movie. My mother did not want me to watch the movie because she felt I was not mature enough to handle the materials in the movie. My mother knew I was too young and would have bad dreams. At the time, I wanted to prove her wrong. I had only seen a handful of horror type movies, but I knew this movie would be nothing to be scared of. I decided to sneak and watch the movie with my older siblings and cousins. I was the youngest out of the group, while everyone else was twice my age. I was calm during the previews, but within ten minutes of the movie, I was scared. I found myself under the covers and loosing control. It was hard for me to sleep alone because I would picture the "killer" coming after me in my sleep. I slept with my parents a few times to be on the safe side. I was lucky enough not to have any bad dreams. I knew than that I should have listened to my mother from the beginning.
3. How often do you go to the movie theaters today? How often do you play DVDs on a television at home, or watch movies on a computer? Which experience do you prefer and why?
- I have not been to the movie theaters in a while because I have not found the time to go. I work on a regular basis throughout the week and being in school full time can also be another hassle. When I was younger I would go to the movies almost every weekend with friends because it was something to do on the weekend. The prices than were more affordable for me to go often. When I did go I would eat a big meal before I went, that way I would not have to buy any of the high priced snacks. The prices of the theaters now are quite pricey for me to go. I am more than sure as the prices continue to rise, the revenue of the movie theaters will slowly decrease. I also have not been because there has not been any movies that interest me well enough to go. I normally wait for the movie to come out on DVD, I try to find it on the newest creation, Netflix. I usually watch DVDs at home and on my computer a few times a week. I prefer to watch the DVDs at home because there is no rush, no hassling, and I can watch them on my time. I do not have to pay the crazy prices when I can watch them for cheap on my computer.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Chapter 6 Questioning the Media
2. If you controlled a cable public-access channel in your community, what would be your channel's goal? What could we do to make public-government,or educational access programming more appealing? Should we?
- I would have a different type of goals that would provide an overall image for my company. One goal for my company would be to have a positive image to uphold. That way consumers would want to coperate with my company. I would not want other companies to bad mouth my company especially to consumers. I believe that having a good quality company is what would bring in the money and the business. Another goal would be to try to branch out amongst other communities. That way more people can have access to my channels and programs. The company would be something unique to provide information for the people of the community because the individuals are the community. A good way to make educational channels more appealing would be to change certain things around. I would try to have certain shows during particular time frames. The mornings would be for the young kids, getting ready for school. That way they can get the brain working early in the morning. Than towards the afternoon, that session would be for the older kids. When kids come home, the last thing they want to hear about is education anything while at home. A quick way to reach out to more kids is to link into what they like, cartoons. In a way, I feel by trying to make these topics more appealing would be a waste of energy.
3. Do you think the must-carry rules violate a cable company's First Amendment rights? Why or why not?
- I do not believe the must carry out rules violate the first amendment laws. The company does have the right to show and put on what they want to. At the same time, I feel the amendments have nothing to do with the must carry rules. The major must carry out rules states that the cable operators were to assign channels and carry all local tv broadcast on their systems. I believe it was fair of the FCC to come about with the rules and regulations. If the FCC would not have stepped in, the cable companies would have taken advantage of consumers. THe FCC made sure that everyone was having equal rights and opportunities when it came to be broadcasting shows.
5. Do you think DBS is an equal competitor to cable? Why or why not?
- The thought of DBS being an equal competitor to cable is out of the question. DBS has a higher advantage over cable. With cable, a consumer would be getting basic channels. The channels that are more required rather than wanted by consumers. The DBS has more option with channels that basic cable can not provide. The DBS also was able to provide HD channels and better quality. The usage of DBS has increased over the years. In my opinion, that proves consumers are leading more in that direction. A consumer would be able to watch different music, types of sports, and even stations programmed for music. Both programs are useful tools for entertainment, but DBS surely outshines the average cable network provided today.
- I would have a different type of goals that would provide an overall image for my company. One goal for my company would be to have a positive image to uphold. That way consumers would want to coperate with my company. I would not want other companies to bad mouth my company especially to consumers. I believe that having a good quality company is what would bring in the money and the business. Another goal would be to try to branch out amongst other communities. That way more people can have access to my channels and programs. The company would be something unique to provide information for the people of the community because the individuals are the community. A good way to make educational channels more appealing would be to change certain things around. I would try to have certain shows during particular time frames. The mornings would be for the young kids, getting ready for school. That way they can get the brain working early in the morning. Than towards the afternoon, that session would be for the older kids. When kids come home, the last thing they want to hear about is education anything while at home. A quick way to reach out to more kids is to link into what they like, cartoons. In a way, I feel by trying to make these topics more appealing would be a waste of energy.
3. Do you think the must-carry rules violate a cable company's First Amendment rights? Why or why not?
- I do not believe the must carry out rules violate the first amendment laws. The company does have the right to show and put on what they want to. At the same time, I feel the amendments have nothing to do with the must carry rules. The major must carry out rules states that the cable operators were to assign channels and carry all local tv broadcast on their systems. I believe it was fair of the FCC to come about with the rules and regulations. If the FCC would not have stepped in, the cable companies would have taken advantage of consumers. THe FCC made sure that everyone was having equal rights and opportunities when it came to be broadcasting shows.
5. Do you think DBS is an equal competitor to cable? Why or why not?
- The thought of DBS being an equal competitor to cable is out of the question. DBS has a higher advantage over cable. With cable, a consumer would be getting basic channels. The channels that are more required rather than wanted by consumers. The DBS has more option with channels that basic cable can not provide. The DBS also was able to provide HD channels and better quality. The usage of DBS has increased over the years. In my opinion, that proves consumers are leading more in that direction. A consumer would be able to watch different music, types of sports, and even stations programmed for music. Both programs are useful tools for entertainment, but DBS surely outshines the average cable network provided today.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Chapter 5 - Questioning the Media-
1. Describe your earliest memories of watching television. What was your favorite show? Which, if any shows did your family watch together? Were there shows that you were not allowed to watch? Which ones and why?
- My earliest moments and memories with watching TV, happened when I was a young child. I remember watching the TV loving the sounds and the animations. I would cry and complain until I would get my way and watch TV. There were even times, I would fall asleep by the TV. My mama would always tell me "... back away from the TV, or you'll go blind." Luckily I listened to her and nothing bad came from me sitting to close. She would also say it was a great tool to keep me quiet for a few hours. My favorite shows included Sesame Street and Gullah Gullah Island. Those were my favorite shows because I loved counting, shapes, and the family on Gullah Gullah Island reminded me of my own family. A big caring family with different personalities all living in one house. The TV was a place were we would bond together as a family. As a family, we would watch game shows and action type shows. My sisters and I would always argue over what we wanted to watch. I would always win because I was the only boy in the family. I was used to always getting my way of some sort. When it came to the TV shows, there were also shows my parents blocked and forbid us from watching. We were not allowed to watch any shows that portrayed violence, sexual activity, drugs & alcohol involvement. One type of shows included wrestling, because it caused harm to other people for the fun of the sport. As I got older, my parents became more lenient as to what we watched.
2. How much television do you watch today? Which programs do you try to watch regularly? What attracts you to your favorite program(s)?
- I find myself watching television on a regular basis. I normally do it to pass the time because I am generally bored in my dorm room. It is also a useful tool at night, because the TV has to be on in order for me to go to sleep. I can watch the TV for hours because it gives me the opportunity to be lazy and relaxed. I also watch TV when I'm doing homework, even though it does distract me easily. I know that if I am not listening to my radio or ipod, than I am tuned into a TV show. On the TV, I am a very open minded person. When it comes to programs. I like to watch the news, things about animals, talk shows, game shows, and of course cartoons. My favorite show is First48 because it's a show my mama and I would watch together. It's a crime related type show that portrays real life murder crimes and gives a little lead way as to how the forensics team operates. We would try to figure out suspects and what happened within the crime scenes. The show attracts me because I know the show is real. There are no actors nothing has been "recreated." The police officers, the witnesses, the suspects are all new. The only thing that is changed, is the names of people to protect their rights. Some of my uncles and aunts are detectives and homicide officers. the field has always been an interest for me; watching the process on TV, makes the show even better.
3. If you were a network television executive, what changes would you try to make in the programs that America watches?
- There are a few changes I would have in mind. I would produce and direct more shows that focus on education. Some adolescents may know they need to have school to be successful and educated. Education is a structural tool that is needed in his/her background. Although, some may have different paths to choose. I would want programs to educate the younger crowd because they are the future leaders of this country. To show them the affects of not staying in the books. Some may end up as drop outs or even incarcerated. I would not want that for anyone especially if he/she has the capability to do more. I would also lend towards having more family oriented shows. Shows that families can sit and watch together and get the messages from within the shows. Families are loosing the sense of bonding together as a whole. I would also strive to eliminate the hardcore shows that portray the lifestyles of gangsters, gang members, and violence. I do know those issues may never go away, but it would be the one less thing watched by the children. In today's society children copy what they see on TV because it seems to be "cool." That is why parents should still be monitoring their children's shows.
- My earliest moments and memories with watching TV, happened when I was a young child. I remember watching the TV loving the sounds and the animations. I would cry and complain until I would get my way and watch TV. There were even times, I would fall asleep by the TV. My mama would always tell me "... back away from the TV, or you'll go blind." Luckily I listened to her and nothing bad came from me sitting to close. She would also say it was a great tool to keep me quiet for a few hours. My favorite shows included Sesame Street and Gullah Gullah Island. Those were my favorite shows because I loved counting, shapes, and the family on Gullah Gullah Island reminded me of my own family. A big caring family with different personalities all living in one house. The TV was a place were we would bond together as a family. As a family, we would watch game shows and action type shows. My sisters and I would always argue over what we wanted to watch. I would always win because I was the only boy in the family. I was used to always getting my way of some sort. When it came to the TV shows, there were also shows my parents blocked and forbid us from watching. We were not allowed to watch any shows that portrayed violence, sexual activity, drugs & alcohol involvement. One type of shows included wrestling, because it caused harm to other people for the fun of the sport. As I got older, my parents became more lenient as to what we watched.
2. How much television do you watch today? Which programs do you try to watch regularly? What attracts you to your favorite program(s)?
- I find myself watching television on a regular basis. I normally do it to pass the time because I am generally bored in my dorm room. It is also a useful tool at night, because the TV has to be on in order for me to go to sleep. I can watch the TV for hours because it gives me the opportunity to be lazy and relaxed. I also watch TV when I'm doing homework, even though it does distract me easily. I know that if I am not listening to my radio or ipod, than I am tuned into a TV show. On the TV, I am a very open minded person. When it comes to programs. I like to watch the news, things about animals, talk shows, game shows, and of course cartoons. My favorite show is First48 because it's a show my mama and I would watch together. It's a crime related type show that portrays real life murder crimes and gives a little lead way as to how the forensics team operates. We would try to figure out suspects and what happened within the crime scenes. The show attracts me because I know the show is real. There are no actors nothing has been "recreated." The police officers, the witnesses, the suspects are all new. The only thing that is changed, is the names of people to protect their rights. Some of my uncles and aunts are detectives and homicide officers. the field has always been an interest for me; watching the process on TV, makes the show even better.
3. If you were a network television executive, what changes would you try to make in the programs that America watches?
- There are a few changes I would have in mind. I would produce and direct more shows that focus on education. Some adolescents may know they need to have school to be successful and educated. Education is a structural tool that is needed in his/her background. Although, some may have different paths to choose. I would want programs to educate the younger crowd because they are the future leaders of this country. To show them the affects of not staying in the books. Some may end up as drop outs or even incarcerated. I would not want that for anyone especially if he/she has the capability to do more. I would also lend towards having more family oriented shows. Shows that families can sit and watch together and get the messages from within the shows. Families are loosing the sense of bonding together as a whole. I would also strive to eliminate the hardcore shows that portray the lifestyles of gangsters, gang members, and violence. I do know those issues may never go away, but it would be the one less thing watched by the children. In today's society children copy what they see on TV because it seems to be "cool." That is why parents should still be monitoring their children's shows.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Chapter 4 Questioning the Media:
1. Describe your earliest memories of listening to radio. Do you remember a favorite song? How old were you? Do you remember the station's call letters? Why did you listen?
- My earliest memories of listening to radio was when I would be over my grandparents house. My grandparents both enjoyed the radio every since they were young. I would listen to their radio on a contraption that looks nothing like the radios today. Their radio was huge and sat in the living room. We would listen as they cleaned the house or worked out in the yard. As I child, I learned about who the groups were on the radio as opposed to the actual songs. I know I used to listen to the temptations because it was my grandparents favorite group. I was around the age of 5 years old. I really didn't know what the words weree saying, let alone what they were talking about. The only thing I knew was that the songs always made a person want to dance. I knew the station was called V01.9 Hits & Oldies. I began to listen to the station more and more. I felt the station played the music that were more about having fun and dancing instead of drugs., alcohol, or violence. I still listen to the station on a daily basis. The hosts may have changed, but the overall motive of the show is still valid.
5. How might radio be used to improve social and political discussions in the United States?
- Radio can be used to improve social and political discussions. A good amount of people today, may not know what is truly going on in the world or in their communities. The radio would be another way to get the word out about news and the current politics. A citizen does have the right to know about issues of that nature. There may be some house holds that do not have tv or cable, so reaching them on radio would be a wise choice. Although, some may not be concerned with social news or political issues. In my opinion, I know would want to know what laws, changes, or future events that may take place in my community. I feel that radio should local stations to tune into to get information like that. Another idea would be for the popular radio stations to take the time to fit in topics about social or communities events as well as as national news.
- My earliest memories of listening to radio was when I would be over my grandparents house. My grandparents both enjoyed the radio every since they were young. I would listen to their radio on a contraption that looks nothing like the radios today. Their radio was huge and sat in the living room. We would listen as they cleaned the house or worked out in the yard. As I child, I learned about who the groups were on the radio as opposed to the actual songs. I know I used to listen to the temptations because it was my grandparents favorite group. I was around the age of 5 years old. I really didn't know what the words weree saying, let alone what they were talking about. The only thing I knew was that the songs always made a person want to dance. I knew the station was called V01.9 Hits & Oldies. I began to listen to the station more and more. I felt the station played the music that were more about having fun and dancing instead of drugs., alcohol, or violence. I still listen to the station on a daily basis. The hosts may have changed, but the overall motive of the show is still valid.
5. How might radio be used to improve social and political discussions in the United States?
- Radio can be used to improve social and political discussions. A good amount of people today, may not know what is truly going on in the world or in their communities. The radio would be another way to get the word out about news and the current politics. A citizen does have the right to know about issues of that nature. There may be some house holds that do not have tv or cable, so reaching them on radio would be a wise choice. Although, some may not be concerned with social news or political issues. In my opinion, I know would want to know what laws, changes, or future events that may take place in my community. I feel that radio should local stations to tune into to get information like that. Another idea would be for the popular radio stations to take the time to fit in topics about social or communities events as well as as national news.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Questioning the Media - Chapter 3 -
1. Who was your first favorite group or singer? How old were you at the time? What was important to you about this music?
- My favorite music artist is Michael Jackson. I was in elementary school when I first began playing and listening to his music. I am currently still a big fan of his music and works. He was quite a character and different from other artists at the time. He chose to stand out amongst the crowd and be different. He was not afraid of taking chances and trying something new. As an adult, he has made decisions that may have not been the best, but it's his music that shines over his faults. He did not let his personal life try to affect his music. I feel his songs as well as his legacy shall remain strong as well as honored. His style of music is what attracted me because he didn't sing to a particular audience. His songs were for everyone and they were about honor, love, trust, and unity. In each song he made a point to get a general message across. Throughtout his career, seeing how he had the support and love from his parents and his fans, proved to me he was loved and respected.
2. If you ran a noncommercial campus radio station, what kind of music would you play and why?
- I would play anything my listeners would want to hear. I would not discrimate against any genre, style, or artist. I would bring back the oringinal cassette tapes and record players. These materials were the foundation and building blocks of the new generation of music. I know in some situations, I would have people listening and that may choose not to. I am not a biased person and will listen to anything once or twice. As a radio station owner/host, I am obligated to have an open mind and to make it more convienent for all. Or another idea would be to play certain types of songs on certain days or certain time frames. I would do everything in my power to satisfy the listeners. I would also welcome new talent that may want to sing songs or play his/her song on the radio. I would also try not to collide with other major radio stations that way my station would be quite unique. In the end, music is music and it's something to be enjoyed by all.
5. Do you think the Internet as a technologyy helps or hurts musical artists? Why do so many contemporary musical performers differ in their opinions about the Internet?
- I believe it can do both help and hurt an artist. A few things that can be benificial for an artist is that it would be a way to get his/her music out there to the general public. The Internet is a useufl tool to help market and to promote the music. There is a wide variety of people who currently use the Internet on a daily basis. Once the music is out to the general public than the next steps would be to continue the promoting. The Internet may also be a good source to find out if a musical artist may be having an upcoming event or show. There are also negative issues that can occur from the Internet. There are multiple sites and applications online that allows a person to download a program or software. The programs on occasions are free and it allows the user to download songs or an entire CD for free, without having to step inside an audio store. The artist and the label would be losing money during this process. Unless, the downloading company puts heavy restrictions on the process. In some cases, there are criminal minded individuals who would like to make some quick money by bootlegging products. Many contemporary music performers differ in their opinions about the Internet because some people used the Internet as a way to get broadcasted while some artists went about it a more natural way. There are a few artists who may have started in talent shows, bars, or even local clubs. Music should be something that an artist is passionate about. Whether it is a career or a simple hobby.
- My favorite music artist is Michael Jackson. I was in elementary school when I first began playing and listening to his music. I am currently still a big fan of his music and works. He was quite a character and different from other artists at the time. He chose to stand out amongst the crowd and be different. He was not afraid of taking chances and trying something new. As an adult, he has made decisions that may have not been the best, but it's his music that shines over his faults. He did not let his personal life try to affect his music. I feel his songs as well as his legacy shall remain strong as well as honored. His style of music is what attracted me because he didn't sing to a particular audience. His songs were for everyone and they were about honor, love, trust, and unity. In each song he made a point to get a general message across. Throughtout his career, seeing how he had the support and love from his parents and his fans, proved to me he was loved and respected.
2. If you ran a noncommercial campus radio station, what kind of music would you play and why?
- I would play anything my listeners would want to hear. I would not discrimate against any genre, style, or artist. I would bring back the oringinal cassette tapes and record players. These materials were the foundation and building blocks of the new generation of music. I know in some situations, I would have people listening and that may choose not to. I am not a biased person and will listen to anything once or twice. As a radio station owner/host, I am obligated to have an open mind and to make it more convienent for all. Or another idea would be to play certain types of songs on certain days or certain time frames. I would do everything in my power to satisfy the listeners. I would also welcome new talent that may want to sing songs or play his/her song on the radio. I would also try not to collide with other major radio stations that way my station would be quite unique. In the end, music is music and it's something to be enjoyed by all.
5. Do you think the Internet as a technologyy helps or hurts musical artists? Why do so many contemporary musical performers differ in their opinions about the Internet?
- I believe it can do both help and hurt an artist. A few things that can be benificial for an artist is that it would be a way to get his/her music out there to the general public. The Internet is a useufl tool to help market and to promote the music. There is a wide variety of people who currently use the Internet on a daily basis. Once the music is out to the general public than the next steps would be to continue the promoting. The Internet may also be a good source to find out if a musical artist may be having an upcoming event or show. There are also negative issues that can occur from the Internet. There are multiple sites and applications online that allows a person to download a program or software. The programs on occasions are free and it allows the user to download songs or an entire CD for free, without having to step inside an audio store. The artist and the label would be losing money during this process. Unless, the downloading company puts heavy restrictions on the process. In some cases, there are criminal minded individuals who would like to make some quick money by bootlegging products. Many contemporary music performers differ in their opinions about the Internet because some people used the Internet as a way to get broadcasted while some artists went about it a more natural way. There are a few artists who may have started in talent shows, bars, or even local clubs. Music should be something that an artist is passionate about. Whether it is a career or a simple hobby.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Chapter 2 - Questioning Review
1. What was your first encounter with the Internet like? How did it compare with your first encounters with other mass media?
- My first encounter with the internet was back in elementary school when I had to look up information for class. Prior to this, I only used the computer for games; not necessarily the internet because at the time I had no idea how the internet worked. At this point, I had more frequent encounters with the internet and opened up a new world to me. I realized there was more to the internet than just looking up information. I used to stay on the computer for hours at a time just browsing around. My interaction with the radio was quite different than the internet. My family always involved music around anything we did. Whether it was parties, family gatherings, or dinners. The radio was nothing new to me at this point. I remember playing with dials on the radio in the car. My first response was always wondering how the people on the radio were able to talkl and me hear them while driving in the car. Shortly after, I soon learned how radio communications actually worked.
2. What possibilities of the Internet's future are you most excited about? Why? What possibilities are most troubling? Why?
- The possibilities of the Internet's future that I am most excited about would be the new search engines and the hopes of having a stronger security system while online. Having a stronger and more advanced search engine can allow better opportunities for research. I twoud allow people to have more options than the basic search engines. I can see within the next few years the internet will have a stronger security system. That way people can feel safe putting in personal information on the computer or to do everyday things such as pay billls or shop online. That is why some people, including myself, are very hesitant to buy things online because I never know who would catch my information or try to while being online. I believe the most troubling about the internet's future would be if the internet crashes or if the internet started to charge everytime you logged in or got onto the internet. The economy now is already in financial struggle so less househoulds are using internet access. If the government does decide that the internet should have a service charge, there would be less people signing onto the internet.
5. As we move from a print-oriented Industrial Age to a digitally based Information Age, how do you think individuals, communities, and nations will be affected?
- Individuals will be affected because not everyone has the access to see or read about news online and rely on things such as newspaper to read about what is going on in their communities and neighbors. The internet may be a little advanced for some, especially the ones from an earlier generation. The communities will be affected because some people have jobs within the mass media such as the newspaper. If the future turns everything into electronic based that means that some individuals may lose their source of a job. The nation as a whole would not be affected has hard as inviduals and communites because it would actually do the complete opposite. If the nation went all digital, that means that less newspapers would be sent out and that means less paper being used. There is always a talk about "going green" this would be apart of that project. It can always be a good thing if less things are being used to save and reserve.
- My first encounter with the internet was back in elementary school when I had to look up information for class. Prior to this, I only used the computer for games; not necessarily the internet because at the time I had no idea how the internet worked. At this point, I had more frequent encounters with the internet and opened up a new world to me. I realized there was more to the internet than just looking up information. I used to stay on the computer for hours at a time just browsing around. My interaction with the radio was quite different than the internet. My family always involved music around anything we did. Whether it was parties, family gatherings, or dinners. The radio was nothing new to me at this point. I remember playing with dials on the radio in the car. My first response was always wondering how the people on the radio were able to talkl and me hear them while driving in the car. Shortly after, I soon learned how radio communications actually worked.
2. What possibilities of the Internet's future are you most excited about? Why? What possibilities are most troubling? Why?
- The possibilities of the Internet's future that I am most excited about would be the new search engines and the hopes of having a stronger security system while online. Having a stronger and more advanced search engine can allow better opportunities for research. I twoud allow people to have more options than the basic search engines. I can see within the next few years the internet will have a stronger security system. That way people can feel safe putting in personal information on the computer or to do everyday things such as pay billls or shop online. That is why some people, including myself, are very hesitant to buy things online because I never know who would catch my information or try to while being online. I believe the most troubling about the internet's future would be if the internet crashes or if the internet started to charge everytime you logged in or got onto the internet. The economy now is already in financial struggle so less househoulds are using internet access. If the government does decide that the internet should have a service charge, there would be less people signing onto the internet.
5. As we move from a print-oriented Industrial Age to a digitally based Information Age, how do you think individuals, communities, and nations will be affected?
- Individuals will be affected because not everyone has the access to see or read about news online and rely on things such as newspaper to read about what is going on in their communities and neighbors. The internet may be a little advanced for some, especially the ones from an earlier generation. The communities will be affected because some people have jobs within the mass media such as the newspaper. If the future turns everything into electronic based that means that some individuals may lose their source of a job. The nation as a whole would not be affected has hard as inviduals and communites because it would actually do the complete opposite. If the nation went all digital, that means that less newspapers would be sent out and that means less paper being used. There is always a talk about "going green" this would be apart of that project. It can always be a good thing if less things are being used to save and reserve.
Chapter 1 -Questioning Media
1. Using music or television as an example, identify a performer or program you once liked but grew away from as you got older and your tastes changed. Why do you think this happened? Do you think your early interests in popular music or television have had an impact on shaping your identity?Explain.
- As a child, I used to be a fanatic for Sesame Street. My favorite characters were Elmo, Big Bird, and Count Dracula. The show was very popular for me because it brought joy and happiness to me. It also made learning about numbers and shapes fun. I also enjoyed the daily songs they would sing. I felt that the show was made for kids just like me. Overall, it made the process of learning more interactive.The show even went as far as to providing a bonding time with my mother and I. As I got older, the show began to provide little interest to me because I was growing older and had already received the educational affect. A bigger influence on me were my older siblings. I wanted to watch what the big kids were watching. I do believe television has a great deal of shaping your identity. I feel a person is going to watch something on tv that has a common interest to them. By showing the interest in the show, it proves that a person will watch somethin that appeals to his/her personality.
3. Pick an examle of a popular media product that you think is harmful to children. How would you make your concerns known? Should the product be removed from circulation? Why or Why not? If you think the product should be banned, how would you do it?
- An example of a popular media product that I feel is harmful to children would be the video games that are created today. When I was growing up, video games were less violent and more based on fun and adventures. A lot of games portrary violence and even sex related situations. The products are not appealing to me because I don't feel the need to associate or play those type of games. I don't believe any parent would want his/her child to see such obscene behavior, let alone play the games. The prodcuts shouldn't be removed, but the games should meet a strict age requirement to purchase those type of games. The age limit should be more based on the mature/adult type of level. In the business world, pulling the products may cause a lost of money towards some companies. The company should still stress the age plan. A game can't be quite appealing when it involves murdering the enemies or causing harm.
5. Although in some ways postmodern forms of communication, such as e-mail, MTV, cell phones, and Twitter, have helped citizens participate in global life, in what ways might these forms harm more traditional or native cultures.
- The good thing about the forms of communications are they provide a way to keep in touch or stay connected with friends and family. There are some friends and family members that I don't get to talk to on a regular basis, so I can use things such as Facebook as a source to talk with them when I have the time to. Another positive thing is that I can post pictures and even videos. Some people are not real big on face to face communication so he/she might use social sites or texting as a way to express themselves without having to say a word to anyone. It may be a good way to avoid confrontation, but at the same time it is not the way I would want to communicate. The negative views about the lack of communication is that it does take away the traditional way of talking face to face. That is the way things were done before the usage of texting and the social sites. Now that we have the options and different ways of communicating, we as a whole, have became lazy. It is hard to express how you truly feel with only words. The face to face communication would have more value behind it.
- As a child, I used to be a fanatic for Sesame Street. My favorite characters were Elmo, Big Bird, and Count Dracula. The show was very popular for me because it brought joy and happiness to me. It also made learning about numbers and shapes fun. I also enjoyed the daily songs they would sing. I felt that the show was made for kids just like me. Overall, it made the process of learning more interactive.The show even went as far as to providing a bonding time with my mother and I. As I got older, the show began to provide little interest to me because I was growing older and had already received the educational affect. A bigger influence on me were my older siblings. I wanted to watch what the big kids were watching. I do believe television has a great deal of shaping your identity. I feel a person is going to watch something on tv that has a common interest to them. By showing the interest in the show, it proves that a person will watch somethin that appeals to his/her personality.
3. Pick an examle of a popular media product that you think is harmful to children. How would you make your concerns known? Should the product be removed from circulation? Why or Why not? If you think the product should be banned, how would you do it?
- An example of a popular media product that I feel is harmful to children would be the video games that are created today. When I was growing up, video games were less violent and more based on fun and adventures. A lot of games portrary violence and even sex related situations. The products are not appealing to me because I don't feel the need to associate or play those type of games. I don't believe any parent would want his/her child to see such obscene behavior, let alone play the games. The prodcuts shouldn't be removed, but the games should meet a strict age requirement to purchase those type of games. The age limit should be more based on the mature/adult type of level. In the business world, pulling the products may cause a lost of money towards some companies. The company should still stress the age plan. A game can't be quite appealing when it involves murdering the enemies or causing harm.
5. Although in some ways postmodern forms of communication, such as e-mail, MTV, cell phones, and Twitter, have helped citizens participate in global life, in what ways might these forms harm more traditional or native cultures.
- The good thing about the forms of communications are they provide a way to keep in touch or stay connected with friends and family. There are some friends and family members that I don't get to talk to on a regular basis, so I can use things such as Facebook as a source to talk with them when I have the time to. Another positive thing is that I can post pictures and even videos. Some people are not real big on face to face communication so he/she might use social sites or texting as a way to express themselves without having to say a word to anyone. It may be a good way to avoid confrontation, but at the same time it is not the way I would want to communicate. The negative views about the lack of communication is that it does take away the traditional way of talking face to face. That is the way things were done before the usage of texting and the social sites. Now that we have the options and different ways of communicating, we as a whole, have became lazy. It is hard to express how you truly feel with only words. The face to face communication would have more value behind it.
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