iMovie Assignment

https://udrive.oit.umass.edu/jsdelane/El%20Fin.wmv?uniq=rv7kfc

[Jagged] cut draft

A rough draft would be on overstatement. Hopefully, this jagged draft of my project gives you an idea of the direction I plan on going. I was rushing and was only able to do one cut of the audio -thus the shitty timing, volume, quality, and lack of animations - but I can guarantee the final will be completely different.

So, without further adieu, my jagged draft of the "IMovie Assignment"

Another Update!

Over the weekend, I managed to continue to build onto my script, and it's near complete. Over the thanksgiving weekend I plan to find pictures and edit as much as possible considering my formula is almost complete

Update!

Contrary to my proposal, I've decided to go in a different direction for my imovie project. I plan to focus on the positive implications of free music from the internet. I'll likely focus on the benefits of youtube, pandora, zshare, megaupload,etc.. As reinforcement to my argument I plan to interview a writer of a rap blog, and possibly other sources. The idea is still in the works...

IMovie Essay: AIM

An application I’ve found much interest in since its introduction to my attention is AIM (AOL Instant Messenger). AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) “is an instant messaging and presence computer program which uses the proprietary OSCAR instant messaging protocol and the TOC protocol to allow registered users to communicate in real time. It was released by AOL in May 1997”

For those who aren’t familiar with the application, it’s probably for their best, as many first time users love it from their first time trying it. What’s most interesting of AIM is it’s history and capabilities. Beginning with solely a single conversation with a digital culture language, the application has grown into one of the most widely used programs. Resources such as chat rooms, video chats, and all sorts of file sharing make it the ultimate online messaging service.

Connecting with themes of literacy, and mass communication as we’ve covered earlier in the year, I plan to tie many other forms or literacy and technology to the project. I plan to elaborate on the conception of digital dialect, the history of the program, and tying this all to many subject we’ve discussed this year.

As of now, I plan to use older photos of the original templates of the program in comparison to the modern one. Also, I plan to go in depth on the applications with the program.

As far as interviews and permissions, I haven’t secured any, but I plan to have that changed very soon.

Day 1 Draft

Photoshop Reflection

Going into this assignment, I was relatively new to the whole Photoshop program. I had used Microsoft paint before, but never Photoshop. Once I got past the rudimentary stages of the program, though, I felt the only difficult part remaining would be my creativity process. Although I knew who I wanted to include into my portrait, I found some trouble as to what exactly my message would include. Unfortunately, this confusion lasted days before the assignment was due, preempting me to change my project completely.

Once I got past the confusion, though, I knew I wanted to remain in the realm of politics. Mainly because of the title of the assignment “Photoshop for democracy.” Though I couldn’t include Obama as I originally planned, I found an alternative within Joe Wilson, and incorporated the pop culture into the project with one of the most talked about pop icons, Kanye West. With West’s joke still fresh in my mind, andWilson’s outburst still a common topic on the news, I felt the two figures would suite each other well with an ironic twist. With great ideas though, come great implications. The largest issue still being my message. I knew the literal comedic message would be understood, but I wasn’t sure if that would satisfy my statement. Though many people might understand the irony, I’m not sure if the overall message is completely understood.

Rejection was probably one of the most tedious processes of the assignment. I had many ideas in which I would have loved to manipulate with the Photoshop tools, but the most important aspect of the assignment is to get across my visual statement. I would have loved to use the Photoshop for a picture that might have dealt with Hip Hop or basketball, but I felt politics was a more presentable issue to do.

Also arguably one of the most annoying processes of the assignment, the selection of resources took me on a long and indecisive tour. Using google as my first selected search engine, I found I was coming across either the same photos or deleted photos. Possibly because of the general use of the public or lack of photos, either way, I ended up not using google. I found the most effective resource websites were the ones that were taking awkward pictures and adding jokes to them. By already having a comedic purpose, I feel like this part of the selection process was the least stressful. Once I had decided my search engine and the picture I wanted, I went back to those same sites for inspiration just in case I felt my message wasn’t obvious enough.

Although it didn’t seem as obvious in the beginning, the most important issue with this project was managing my time productively. If I would have had more time I would have thought out the assignment more. While it can be a strain manipulating pictures and setting up your image, I think the thought process was the most essential aspect of planning. Also, having an outdated pc laptop without Photoshop, I found the only time that I could work on the assignment was during class, or whenever the busy Mac computer labs weren’t filled with classes and students.

In light of the assignment, I feel like the Jenkins piece was really the best introductory reading we could have had to ready us for the next program we would be using. Also responsible for me remaining in the subject of politics, I feel like this reading is responsible for me only wanting to venture into something related to politics. Following the reading, I found myself constantly finding websites, described in the reading, all over the internet. It’s from one of these websites that I actually cropped images for my first draft of the assignment.

Finally, while I feel like I could have executed the assignment better, I feel like my process to finishing the assignment was a success. I achieved the objectives of the assignment of developing my digital literacy as a producer, communicating an idea visually, and develop basic skills in using Photoshop.

Photoshop for Democracy

Oct. 26th, 2009 RW Revived

Initially unaware of the point the author was trying to prove, the author used rich use of metaphors and examples to coherently getting his point across. Being a student who likes to make rich use of textual references, I could immediately relate to the argument posed in this essay. Further, growing up a digital native, I watched as the internet grew popular and the key programs that were behind it’s enormous growth. Though these topics may not seem like they’re directly relatable, they are - specifically when technology gets involved.

Aware of much of the happenings occurring within the music industry -namely hip hop - I’ve watched as the broadening of the internet has both helped and hurt it’s growth. Early in hip hop’s history, many artists faced backlash because of their sampling. Similarly within text, authors often require some sort of reference if their art is being used. Though the two seem like they’re not related at all, they both belong to their respective owners in a respective manner and their authors are capable of controlling it’s manipulation.

Also, a fact I found interesting was behind the section in the essay was about blogs. It seems everywhere you look now a days someone is using or creating a blog. Growing up in America I believed that we are the central source of blogs, but Japan is. I found this remarkably interesting because I’ve never been on any blog outside of the English language.

Further, I found the insert of how the internet couldn’t possibly be a fad due to it’s large user base. Unlike any other fad out generation has seen, the blogs alone have millions on top of millions of users. Considering it’s such a huge consumer base, It would probably take a very long time for it to go out of style.

Photoshop For Democracy

Using the phrase, “Photoshop for Democracy,” as a participatory slogan for the public’s newfound freedom of speech, Jenkins shines light on how the new age of technology is manipulating politics.

Beginning with John Kerry’s involvement with expanding his supporter’s use of the e-mail, Jenkins highlights what sparked the new internet age of political satire. Briefly mentioning the slogan in the reading, Jenkins says, “It is easy to make fun of the concept of "Photoshop for democracy," especially given the persistence with which lowbrow and popular culture references are read over the more serious issues of the campaign. Some might well argue that circulating these images is a poor substitute for more traditional forms of political activism...” In agreement with Jenkins, I too think the introduction of Photoshop and countless other programs introduce a new angle to politics. Political comedy sketches, once only found in newspaper sketches, are now almost on any website you browse with the common domestic use of Photoshop. Also in agreement, was co-creator of Photoshop, John Kroll, who says, “the software program had democratized media in two ways: by allowing smaller groups to have professional

quality graphics at low cost, and by allowing the public to manipulate and recirculate powerful images to make political statements.”

Eventually crossing my own path, one of the most memorable forms of “Photoshop for Democracy” would have to be a t-shirt done following the election of our current president, Barack Obama. Arguably one of the most controversial elections of our time, nearly every form of “Photoshop for Democracy” was used. But being a huge fan of the clothing brand, Undercrown, and sports, this particular item was over the top for me. Resembling the monumental fight between Mohammed Ali and Sonny Liston. The fight marked a milestone in boxing; and likewise, the drawing captured the same.

Autobiography Final

http://www.zshare.net/audio/6691328563cfd93d/

Convergence culture, digital media literacy response

Devoting much of the chapter towards defining convergence, it’s features, and how it seems to be unfolding, Jenkins summarized it’s characteristics and presenting examples illustrating how he did so. Convergence, a trending topic among emerging technology, consumes much discussion due to it’s common relevance. Ranging in characteristics, one particular characteristic cannot precisely pinpoint what convergence is.

Convergence, “the flow of content across multiple media platforms, the cooperation between multiple media industries and the migratory behavior of media audiences who will go almost anywhere in search of the kinds of entertainment experience they want”, although ambiguously worded, this characterizes the many approaches convergence can take. For example, as the rise of social networking platforms continue to bloom, the consuming audience can now concisely group their desired entertainment. Sites such as twitter, and programs like RSS feeds allow consumers to do just this. Speaking from experience, I found that sites such as these allow me to filter out all undesirable news and allow me to focus on particular articles or genres of news that I find interest in.

Interestingly enough, the story shared by the author illustrates the complications that could ensue because of convergence. As Jenkins recalls, “I was told by mobile company after company that they don’t make single-function phones anymore. Nobody wants them.” A common problem amongst digital immigrant consumers, the consumers demand - an effect of convergence - doesn’t always suit everyone. Although the majority of consumers may want updated phones, there are some consumer who prefer simple conventional phones, and they’re at a disadvantage. So, while it may seem there are no flaws to convergence, not everyone benefits, namely digital immigrants.

As a result of convergence, readers, writers and consumers of media are changing. Readers, once restricted to newspapers and news broadcasts, can now access their media in many fashions: company websites, you tube, RSS feeds and more. Writers are finding themselves adjusting to convergence in whatever way might seem beneficial to them. With the emergence of bloggers and open discussion forums, the voice of the public has never been so prevalent. Once almost entirely reliable on professional writers, most individual sources of information speak for themselves now. Consumers of media may indeed have the highest advantage as a result of convergence. Prior to convergence, consumers were forced to purchase whatever media they wished to read or watch. Now, programs like Justin.tv, zshare, you tube etc. allow consumers to not only read and watch something for free, but also, whenever they want. Similarly, in last week’s reading, Palfrey and Gasser noted although the emerging technologies help digital natives, the digital immigrants are left out of consideration. In this case, the author simply wanted a traditional phone, but because of convergence, it’s imperative electronic companies respond to the consumers demand.

Finally, while convergence is a disadvantage for some, the majority of consumers appreciate it. Integrating so many platforms of information, information has never been so easy have an aggregate source of technology. Ultimately, this revolution will compliment us all with it’s benefits.

My technology background

http://www.zshare.net/audio/6634732036fdac70/

Palfrey and Gasser recorded response

http://www.zshare.net/audio/663018603ab842ed/

Palfrey and Gasser reading response

Another interesting topic, the Introduction of Born Digital, highlights and characterizes the major groups of the digital world. Focusing on the pros and cons of either group, the article brings attention to the split of knowledge of those capable and incapable of performing various computing tasks.

Obvious from the perspective from which the authors, Palfrey and Gasser, write from, it seems as if they’re speaking to digital natives. Beginning with the introduction where they write, “you seem them everywhere, the teenage girl with the ipod..” it’s obvious the writer likely wasn’t cultured during our digital revolution. Another example, Palfrey and Gasser write, “all of them are digital natives, they were born after 1980..” Once again, the reader can deduct from the author’s writing perspective, Palfrey and Gasser are definitely writing to their fellow digital immigrants.

Directed towards parents, educators, and caregivers of all sorts, the book is writing to the digital immigrants. Made obvious from select language such as, “our children” and “they”, (in reference to the digital natives) the author attempts to persuade the digital immigrants to productively use the digital natives’ technological skills.

I feel like the authors accurately categorized the two groups. Comparing those computer literate and illiterate with words that perfectly contrast each other. The terms, “digital native” and “digital immigrant” grant the reader further insight as to what the given group is capable of. Like and immigrant to a country, the digital immigrants are oblivious to most customs and regularities, while the digital natives are rounded to their culture - or in this case, technology.

Finally, accurately composed, I found myself drawing parallels with that of a digital native. Reminiscing of days when I was the one who would refrain from dinner because of an interesting conversation I may be having on AIM , or text messaging while eating, I can clearly identify myself a digital native.

Practice sound link

http://ia301509.us.archive.org/2/items/aesop_fables_volume_one_librivox/fables_01_04_aesop.mp3

Week 3 Reading Response

Reading into Baron, Wesch and Powers’ readings and videos concerning literacy and technology, I found myself relating many of the examples to many of my past technology experiences.

Beginning with Baron’s reading, “From pencils to pixels” the writer points out the evolution of word processing and it’s steps towards the general public. An interesting passage from the essay, “Writing was not initially speech transcription, and pencils were first made for woodworkers, not writers.” I feel like that passage grasps the theme of both the paper, and it’s connection to literacy. Many unorthodox paths are taken toward gaining literacy, and though pencils weren‘t originally created in hopes of advancing literacy, they have probably one the largest influences in literacy for the last few hundred years.

Illustrating the time that can be saved and the advantages of using a computer as opposed to a pad, the Web 2.0 presentation showcased the many advantages of the world wide web. While it probably wasn’t the focus, I found myself learning more about the controls and the options while accessing the internet. As a person who grew up during the rise of the internet, I found myself to the fact that computers and the internet offer an alternate to the classic pencil and pad.

Finally, upon reading into Powers’, “How to read a book” I found myself most moved by the last passage. “Everything we write — through any medium — is lost in translation. But something new is always found again, in their eager years. In Derrida’s fears. Make that: in the reader’s ears.” I found this to be very true. While an individual may write a story or a passage - especially in literature - every individual usually has a different meaning - usually different from the author’s intent.

Week 2 Reading Response

Upon reading into week 2’s response article, “The Disappearance of Technology,” by Bruce and Hogan, I became alarmed at the truths of which the article exposed. A frequent technology user since a young age, I’ve found the conveniences and brilliance of technology have become a near-essential part of my life. From my first experiences with computers when I was eight years old, the introduction of upgrades and advancements have greatly altered my life.

Both a gift and a Curse, technology has it’s ambivalent traits - as does almost everything in life. Affecting everything from education, reading, and even handicap accessibility. The greater integration, our awareness of all technology has become near-oblivious.

Since our earliest innovations, America has prided itself on innovation, and the relief it offers. An interesting point made in the article, our need for the innovation could lead to the downfall of both industries and integrities of which we maintain of market. Nearly every aspiring and thriving business has turned a facet of it’s business towards the internet. While this innovation may come as a convenience to consumers, employers are finding it easier to layoff employees whom the foundation of their core was built upon. Journalism, for example, is facing this crisis now. Once powerhouses, prestigious newspapers such as the Boston Globe are panicking due to their naivety amongst technology and how they can productively administer it by a means of employment. Temporary solutions, such as advertisement on websites, have served as minor solutions hitherto today, but there is need for more discovery. Plenty consider this as a time of crisis, but it is rather another step towards innovation which new means of efficiency have yet to be conquered. These discoveries are just the tip of the iceberg.

Week 1 Reading Response:

Upon reading into the issue of literacy amongst Americans, nostalgic memories of my journey toward learning to reading and writing were evoked. Upon reading into the journey of literacy for Genna May, I found myself indirectly relating to her path and it’s similarities amongst my own family.

Similar to Genna, my parents were raised and descended upon rural families. In the midst of the racial conflicts occurring in the south, my parents weren’t offered as quality an education as many would in the world we live in today. Discouraged to further their education from an early age, my parents were convinced by their surrounding society that their literacy was the least of their priorities. As a result, both my parent would soon find out their lack of higher education would reduce their opportunities amongst a highly literate working world. Treating their experiences as life lessons, my parents decided it was imperative that my brothers and I attain an education to the best of out abilities.

In retrospect, some of the earliest memories I have regarding my literacy were indirect; but nevertheless, effective. Inquiring on hobbies and interests of mines, my mother would often buy books of which she knew I would find interest. In addition, to further improve my reading abilities, my mother would regularly ask me to read to her - assuring herself I was actually reading.

As far as my writing, my parents believed repetition was the key to improving my penmanship. Per inquiring to my teacher, my parents would bring copies of classroom exercises to our household, and following homework, I would repeat the same exercises performed in class in an effort to practice as much as possible.

All in all, with their best interest in mind for myself, my parents reflected on where they felt that could have improved in their younger years, and translated these lessons to my siblings and I. While I could have been watching television or playing outside, my parents knew that their principles of hard work and repetition would eventually pay. The youngest of three boys to successfully enroll in college, my personal journey to literacy has seemed to pay off.