Happy New Year from Diane

Just came on to see if anyone is writing. I wrote. I miss this class and my e-mail changed because I forgot my password and there was a lot of spam. Just wasn't worth keeping it anymore. I miss some addresses but the majority of them I did not use any way. I just hope Yahoo will send a change of address notice. I know I have to have every ones e-mail address and I do not. Forget to ask for it.

I received under a a cabinet cd for my kitchen. I like listening to music as I prepare dinner. It is nice. Tony and I recived a new wireless telephone system for Christmas, but we just bought one so we exchanged it for a new upto the date printer.

My medical class already sent my a list of items needed for my class. I have an assignment due on the second day of school. We are already suppose to be working on it. I have not even picked up my book yet. I get this letter that I am suppose to copy the evaluation papers and have a rough draft done by Thursday.

I know, I am getting busy. MY husband is teaching me to scan my books and make copies. Every paper must be attached to a evaluation form. Must have a title page and evaluation form
2 more semesters left and then I graduate. The evaluation forms just make a lot more paperwork.

See you all later. I hope you had a nice holiday. I did.

Your class mate


Diane

The Internet can INCREASE productivity

I found this information very interesting. It is a report from the UK about companies whose productivity increased because their employees used computers and the internet. ICT & Productivity ICT use is linked to higher productivity

Labour Productivity: by Employees using ICT in Manufacturing and Services

Investment in computers and software by firms, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and internet use by employees, as well as e-commerce activity, are associated with higher value added per worker.

Hardware and software capital in UK firms increases productivity right across manufacturing and service industries, after taking account of other factors. In addition to the effect of investment, the use of computers, communications and e-commerce also has a positive association with productivity across UK industry.

Manufacturing companies in the UK achieve an extra 2.2 per cent in productivity for each additional 10 per cent of employees using computers. In newer firms, this extra productivity effect rises to 4.4 per cent.

The effect associated with internet use is greater. Manufacturing companies in the UK achieve an extra 2.9 per cent in productivity for each additional 10 per cent of employees using the Internet. Again, for newer firms the effect is larger.

US owned firms in the UK are more successful in exploiting Information Technology (IT) compared to all other firms, and IT accounts for much of their productivity advantage. This is consistent with recent ONS data on international productivity comparisons, which show higher output per worker for the US compared to other G7 economies.



http://www.statistics.gov.uk/cci/nugget.asp?id=1240

What I liked the Most...

I liked having this blog, I just wish that I had more time to come on and post more stuff and actually take time to read every one's. (Sometimes I just skimmed) But I like pretty much all forms of media, I like to watch t.v., read books, go on-line, all that fun stuff. I realized just how addicted I was to all this when I was cut off from it all during our first paper. It was a very fun and interesting experience. I would have to say that maybe the radio is my least favorite form of media. I listen to it now and then, but I usually get sick of them talking about the same stuff, or talking about dumb stuff and all the commercials. I usually just have a CD in so I can just relax and listen to some music.

Final comments

What have I liked? I guess that I would have to say all of the neat things that Jamie found on-line and shared with us, like the first MTV video and some of the u-tube stuff (mainly because I would never search out those things for myself, but I know I could if I ever wanted to.) What have I not liked? Sorry, but this blog stuff has not impressed me at all. I am absolutly sure that the fact that I had 2 online classes and daily postings for those classes affected my opinion, so please do not be offended. I do not see the purpose of this, and I do not have the time to do it. I want to know who I am talking to, and what they bring to the conversation (example:if we are talking religon, is the other person a pastor?) I do not want (or need) to have conversations with God- knows -who in cyberspace. It's just not my thing at all. Thanks for an enlightening class.
Kathy

On a scale of intrigue...

I really enjoyed the time we discussed advertising. That was the most interesting part of the course for me, even though I've enjoyed every week of class. It is fascinating to see "behind the scenes" on something that is made to persuade. The whole industry of advertising is full of quirks and sneaky practices that you don't even notice until you study it.


So, as a whole form of mass media, I think that the Internet was the most intriguing, with newspapers/magazines in a close second place. There are so many controversial issues swirling around the structure, use of, and the future of the Internet, that it is never boring to learn about. I especially enjoyed studying newspapers and magazines in this class because I don't know very much about that industry.

Probably the least intriguing form of mass media for me, was books. I am an avid reader, a book fanatic, so don't think that I think books are boring. There just isn't much intrigue or controversy over them any more (at least the ones I read). I understand most of the publishing process, and the history of books is widely known. I love books, but I already know so much about them, so it just wasn't very intriguing.

Least and most intriguing media....

For me the least intriguing media is newspaper. Because of how the information is written and how it is presented. Even in the earlier times newspaper in the same, although nowadays there are more advertising then there ever was. Newspaper today is fading because of how easy you can get information with just one click away (internet).

The most intriguing media to me is the internet. Internet is so powerful, anyone can put just about anything out there. There are no restrictions, rules or guidance. As long as you are not threatening the government or doing some terrorist act. You can get information to just about anybody, that it is why a lot of people are being identity theft, people are committing some kind of sex act to minor and such. Parents be aware!!!

Positive aspect of the internet is making us aware of different cultures. Today, you can have a conversation with someone half way across the globe. You can look up different culture background, finding out recipes of that culture or whatever. Today, schools are using Epals (pen pals of different ethnicity).

I used to spend a lot of money on phone card to talk to my family back home (Philippines) but today I used email a lot. This saves me money, less writing, and they can access the email right away. Internet is a great tool, just be aware of what is out there.

The Intrigue of Mass Media

This took some serious thought for me. I think the most intriguing form of mass media was advertising. I was surprised at how it has worked its way into movies and television. I had never paid close attention to it before. Now when I view anything I notice right away if it is an advertised product being utilitzed. In fact the other night we were watching Rachel Ray on the Food Network and she was using Grey Poupon Mustard in a recipe. I will never see T.V. and movies the same way again.

As for the least intriguing mass media, I choose magazines. These are frivoulous to me and I very rarely look at them unless I am in a waiting room of some kind. If I want to read something news worthy or interesting there is the newspaper or the internet. I always glance at them in the grocery store checkout and am very surprised at the cost of them.
This class has taught me a lot about media and how it is part of so much of our lives. It has been a fun experience.
:) Cindy

Best & Worst

I love all forms of media. I really enjoyed learning about advertising. I couldn't believe how much work went into creating simple concepts. When we watched the videos on advertising, it was almost as if my whole television and movie watching experience was transformed. Now, I notice every little ad or product placement. For example, the other day I was watching Sex and the City and it was as if each of the main characters were walking advertisments! In addition, I also enjoyed learning about AM radio. Before this class, I did not know a thing about AM radio. Since I am not a sports fan, I have never had the drive or desire to listen to AM stations; therefore, I was surprised that I was able to find AM stations with music!

I really can't think of any form of media that I did not like learning about. If I had to choose, I would pick the Internet or computers in general. I have no reason why, so I am not sure what to say! I guess I am just sick of computers at this point in the quarter.

:o) I've really enjoyed this class.

Best,

Erika

Telelvision is the least intriguing media

To me I think the lest intriguing media is TV today. I think TV has gone to another level. I was watching television a few nights ago, and saw that the majority of shows on cable TV were reality show. I also noticed that a show that came on at 9 p.m. on TV used the word, bitch. I was shocked because this particular show is part of a Monday night line up. I know that in the past hearing damn on TV was a big deal now they get to say it all. I wonder where the morals of some people have gone. The things that come on TV these days are ridiculous. Even the cartoons have gone to a new level. What happened to the shows that had a good message that the whole family could watch?

The least intriging part of Mass media!

I enjoyed this class very much, but the one piece of media that I have a problem with is television. This is kind of ironic because this is the media outlet that I chose for my final paper, but it is a different part of TV that I'm not happy with. We have the FCC who monitors what gets broadcasted and what doesn't get broadcasted, and the whole big controversy is certain programs and content being on regular channels at times when young children are watching. Okay I understand that, but ten years ago I didn't hear half the inappropriate words that are on regular TV shows now during the hours of five and nine. Now we all know there are very few children that go to bed at five in the afternoon, so for there to be the words; ass, bitch, damn, and s.o.b on regular shows I find it to be a problem. Although I'm not a parent I work with children that watch TV and may hear these words, so what is the FCC censoring because it's not those words? Are parents and caregivers supposed to sit on top of their children just to make sure that they're not watching any of the programs where these words are used regularly? What parent has that time? So this is my problem with regular TV today. We tell our children don't say those words because they are bad, but then they hear them on TV everyday, so then what?

The least intriguing form of mass media

The least intriguing form of mass media for me was television. For the most part because it stole many of the transmitting devises and it did not give any recognition to any of the inventors. Especially to Howard Armstrong.

Television went on to market to the video audience and it killed the radio star. So MTV says, that television killed the radio star, but that was not true. Radio, has many recording stars and many of them are given credit.

Television does not seem to have any morals. Cable television came into existences and charged for the use of transmission. Antennas are obsolete. Television does not pay their writers. Television, in my opinion exploits their viewers, producers and writers.

Television needs the writers to air a situation comdey. Some of the situation comdies are not all that entaining.

Occasionally the writers and the producers write a winning show such as the Gilmore Girls or Two and Half Men. But the majority of the time the shows are not funny or entertaining.

Now televisions wants me to go out and purchase a box or a digital television set so that I can have digital broadcasting. Television can keep the digital broadcast and the plasma television sets because I am going to watch my DVDs that are already recorded and they are free.

Television does not have excellent programming. Television keeps on exploiting their viewers. It is a very greedy mass media outlet. Television's biggest mistake is thinking that the American people can't live without it.

The biggest reason why people have to borrow money or have money sent to them by wire is to pay the cable bill. I think the American people ought form alliance and protest against all forms of new television technology. When our television sets become obsolete we ought to throw them out the window and never replace them.

That is kind of drastic because mine still works. I am going to sit in front of my obsolete television set and watch my DVD recordings, because my husband put all my VHS on DVD.

I refuse to upgrade my television set and then still be charged to use it. Television is just not ethical. Television has a great potential to entertain and educate. It just does not do what is capable of doing.

Good luck on all your finals and have a great week and I will see you on Friday. Enjoy.

last blog prompt

hey gang,

i know you all are busy with stuff like finals and life, so i will be brief. thanks for all your diligent blog work this quarter.

your final blog prompt = what in your opinion was the most and least intriguing form of mass media that we examined this quarter? that is all. good luck with finals and such.

ee you all on firday,

Jamie

Radio: Satellite? Regular? Relevant?

I use the radio in my car all through the week, as I spend a great deal of time in it all week. I live about 30-45 min. from Baker and about a hour (in the other direction) from my job. So, sometimes I feel like I live in my car. I listen to the radio and my CDs as I drive to and from work, home, and school. Half of my music listening time is taken up by the regular old free radio. So, yes, I think radio is still relevant, at least for me.

I have heard about HD and satellite radio, but have never really wanted to upgrade to either because it wold cost me money. HD is the most attractive option, since you only buy a radio receiver to enhance the quality of sound you get, basically, through HD stations. To me, satellite radio is like Cable TV: It sounds better when you don't have it than when you do. As a kid, I used to wish we had cable, and think about all the cool shows and channels you could only get on cable. Then, once we got cable, the novelty wore off in a few weeks, and I even started saying "there's noting to watch" again, even though we had about 70 channels. Also, remember how when cable was the new trendy technology, it was advertised as "commercial-free TV"? How long will satellite radio be commercial-free? As the technology grows more and more popular, advertisers will want to be in on it, and the radio providers will want to capitalize on the huge profits from advertising dollars.

So, do I really want to have the option of hearing Howard Stern on satellite radio? Not really. For me, the regular radio stations work well. I have about 10 different ones programmed into my car stereo system, with about 2 AM channels that I use rarely. That's enough for me.

Satellite Radio

I don't personally own a satellite radio but a lot of my family members do. My mom works for GM, she use to work for Delphi before all the shut downs started a few years ago and she transferred out of there before they started cutting people. Anyways, so Delphi makes the receiver part for XM radio so my mom got a pretty good discount on them when they first came out. So whenever I have used my mom's car I love it just because I get to use it. It is so nice to just be able to listen to music with no commercials. You can go to a station and just listen to a certain type of music, a certain decade, sports, comedy, talk, news, and on and on.

I wouldn't buy one anytime soon though because they are coming in so many cars now and you usually get them free for a year or two. (and I am a poor college student) My boyfriends Envoy came with it and it was nice how it was built into the radio itself. My mom's has a holder that it attaches into so she had to get that installed and she has to have the radio on a certain channel to turn it on so that is a little more work, but she can take her's out and she bought a stereo type thing that the XM hooks into and it plays through speakers.

So anyways, I like them, everyone I know that has one, or has used one likes them. It's just nice to be able to put on a station and just listen to music or whatever else you want to listen to for the whole car ride or even just at home.

Rather have a high definition Radio

My report on the radio. I learned more about the inventors than I ever wanted to know. One inventor Armstrong commited suicide over not getiing the patient for FM radio.

I love FM radio WDVD is my favorite station. Magic Radio use to be but Jim Harper is very sing songy and is playing christmas music. I know it is after Thanksgiving but I am just in the mood for Christmas music.

Kathy here is what satellite radio is it is a dish up in space and then you purchase the console and you get to purchase for 10-13 dollars a month a pick of your stations. The satellite radio depending on what programs you choose will play them commericial free. For now. Maybe later down the road they will charge 14.oo a month and play commericials but for right now it is commericial free. It does not broadcast local news, weather or anything local. It is all music all the time or all comedy all the time depending on the program.

It is also not regulated so if they cannot say on it on a FM radio they will say it on satellite radio.
Right now there are only two companys Sirius and xm satellite both of them are in the same price range 10-13 a month, but ask me in class which one to choose because if I state it here they could sue me or something. I will tell you class which one to get because one of them is more competitive than the other, and like I said I did my report on radio. I have an opinion on satellite radio too, but I do not wish to share it at this time because of my presentation.

You will eventually find out in class. Yes, I know keep you all in suspense. Part of my charm.

Since Fm is free at this time I will listen to WDVD 96.3 it is a cool radio station, it plays all the lastest hits without the rap and I like it.

Jennifer, hold off on getting a satellite radio until you hear my report and what I found out then make your decision. Yes, if you really want one get one but just hold off until after my report.

The reason why I am responding to you here is because the comment page would not open and I have been on the computer all day. I would like to close out and get something to eat and my computer will not open any thing on the blog.

Erica you are so right. My mom bought my daughter the WII and she does not even want it. Now she wants the double screen when I wanted to get her for her she did not want it now she wants it. I do not have the money for it. Plus I bought her the clam shell last year.

Like I said I am really sorry that I could not commit on the commit bar but I cannot get it to work so this will have to do until I close out and reboot.

Have a nice night everybody.

Satellite Radio

OK, I don't even know what satellite radio really is. I am assuming that it allows you to recieve signals that are not normally broadcast (stations in between stations??) Obviously, if i don't know what it is, I don't have a need for it at this time. I enjoy my regular radio stations, and I also enjoy finding stations that I don't normally listen to. An example of this happened on Sunday night when I to0k my son back to school at Eastern Michigan. Although I had listened to the weather, and I knew that it could rain in the early evening, they did not say it was going to snow until much later. (so much for dopler and all of the other technology weather forcasters have at their disposal....ever notice that the more technology they have, the more wrong they are in their predicting??? Another example of technology that doesn't really help us too much!!) We left the house at 5pm, and it began snowing about 15 minutes into the 45 minute trip to Ypsilanti. It snowed the entire time I was at EMU (about 1/2 hour) and the entire trip home (which took nearly 90 minutes). I could not get my regular radio station to come in, and I needed to know about the road conditions / accidents / weather. I found a really good station that was out of Ann Arbor that gave me updates every 10-15 minutes the entire evening, and had a combination of country and classic rock inbetween to calm my nerves. I now know that there is a station I like when I am in that area, and my son also enjoyed listening to this station. I think in this area, this market, there are plenty of stations to listen to and find information, at least for me and my purposes. I guess that if I listened to a particular kind of music that was hard o find I may need other stations or options (put in a CD??!!). i guess that I just don't understand it all, and the purpose for it. It seems to me to be just another technology "thing" and we as a society are obsessed with having the latest "thing".

Dear Santa, I Want Satellite Radio

Satellite. I love that song by Dave Matthews.

Honestly, I would love to have satellite radio in my car. I actually do have a 2007 Toyota, but for some reason, I was not offered any of the radio perks. The funny thing is, Toyota does not really offer any perks. For example, Toyota does not do the "pull-ahead" lease thing that many other dealerships offer. My best friend, Bethany, just informed me that her new Saturn has XM radio. I guess that she has it free for one year, but she (and I) agree that she will be so addicted to it that she will continue to want the service. I think that the only problem that I would have with satellite radio would be addiction. I would be addicted to non-stop music, seeing the titles and artists of the song (I usually go crazy trying to find names of songs and artists) and I would be addicted to the amount of radio choices.

I hope that I can afford to have satellite radio in the future. Best case scenario is that I get a car that offers satellite radio for free.

See you all in class.

Satellite Radio

I don’t know really know a whole lot about it. All I know is that less to no commercial 24/7. Yes, more music variety and more station.
I am not on the road enough to really benefit me. Beside I sometimes liked the commercial.

Satellite Radio is not necessary for me.

A year and a half ago we leased two vehicles from Chrysler. One of them came with complementary satellite radio for a year. We never did sign up for it. I couldn't see the point. We are very happy with the local radio stations for choices. Maybe we don't listen to the radio as much as others. I like the local stations and the advertising that is found on them. It gives information as to what is going on in our own backyard. Maybe someday I will have a chance to experience satellite radio and will change my perspective.

My View on Satellite Radio.

I do not have Satellite radio, but have heard many good things about it. A few of those things are that is has less commercials, therefore there is more music to be heard, and you have a huge variety of all the types of music that is out there. My boyfriend was actually thinking about getting it for his car, so if he does then I will know a lot more about it and have a little bit more to add for an opinion on it.

Blog Prompt Issues

Hi all,

first off, hope all of you have had a great thanksgiving holiday. mine was hectic and full of fun as well. i spent time at home and in Houston for a few days.

As for the blog prompt(s) - there was no blog due over the t-giving break. Regarding this week's prompt, i have to admit a computer blunder i made that i am only now becoming aware of. I had a blog prompt regarding radio ready and posted it to the blog. i also run/contribute to 6 blogs at the moment - Mistakenly, i posted your blog prompt for this week on another blog i run . . . oooooops! boy did i feel stupid on a couple of different levels.

The short of it is that i will post the blog prompt now - being aware of everyone's busy schedule, if you have the time to respond to it then please do. if not, then i understand and will not dock you in any way shape or form - this one's on me.

The late late (and rightly placed) blog prompt for week 9:

It's simple. i just got a new car the last week (my lease was up). it's a Dodge and they give you a year of free satellite radio with your lease/purchase.

so . . . do any of you have satellite radio? what are your opinions of it (whether you have it or not)? do you even have any opinions on it? is radio even relevant these days? an answer to any of these questions would suffice. and once again, if you don't find the time, i understand.

Have fun and see you all on Friday.
(don't forget to bring a copy of your paper (whatever state it's in at this point) so we can do some peer work with them in class)

Best,

Jamie

Holiday Shopping Blues

So, it's that time of year again--the holiday season. Now, I am typically a shopper. I like to go shopping and I really like to find great deals; however, my love for shopping somehow, someway disappears during the holiday season. I guess I just feel as though nothing is really "on sale." For example, before the holiday season began, I wanted to buy my boyfriend a Playstation system that was advertised for $399. So, needless to say, I expected that the game console would be cheaper on "black Friday." Unfortunately, the Playstation was advertised as being "on sale" for $399 in several ads. I was shocked. $399 is the regular price of the game console! I searched around online and found the same price...but you had to pay for shipping, too. Honestly, I am thinking about buying my boyfriend something completly different for Christmas. I just have a feeling that the game console will go on sale the day after Christmas!

Disfunctional Thanksgiving

I love the holdays, don't get me wrong. I just wish I had a different family to celebrate them with. My mother is the queen of guilt. I can not do anything good enough for her, which can drive a type A person over the top very quickly. My mother will actually tell me what gifts to buy my family, and even after I have bought something, she will call and ask me what I bought and tell me that the gift I bought "won't work". She also plans all of the family get togethers, when they are, where, who brings what dish, although these gatherings are NEVER at her house. In other words, she PLANS the gathering at someone elses house!! My family thinks that my going back to school full time is like a hobby, and the fact that I work part time means I have a lot of extra time on my hands (???)My sister is sweet and I love her, but she is quickly becoming a mini version of my mother. My brother, the oldest, should be a leader, should be able to take care of himself and his little sisters. Instead, he is one of those adults who refuses to grow up, and allows my parents to continue to parent him. He is an alcoholic (I think he is currently sober...we never know for sure) and this Christmas should be the first holiday in the past 4 years that he won't be in jail for something (ask me again around December 20th...things could change). My brother's sons, now 22 and 20, are rude and selfish, and having never lived with their father, create awkward moments at family gatherings. We joke that we should sell this to some network to turn into a sitcom or drama (take your pick). If anyone watches the ABC show "Brothers and Sisters", in comparrison, I would love to spend my holidays with that family...Mine makes theirs look nearly normal. Anyone interested in adoption?

A Christmas Tradition

I didn't think of this until after I wrote my post earlier for the prompt. My family, as a Christmas tradition, goes to the movies. Now that my sisters and I are all grown, my family usually opens our gifts on Christmas Eve, after we get home from my Mom's side of the family celebration at Grandpa's house.

Since we all are old enough not to do the Santa thing anymore, we wanted to start a new tradition. Since my sisters and I were in high school, we went to the movies on Christmas Day, in the afternoon. We've done this for about 7 years now. It is the biggest deal for us now- we debate for weeks ahead of time, trying to agree on which movie we will see. We all speculate on which movies will be released in time to have showings on Christmas day. This is our new Christmas tradition, and will probably continue until we have kids of our own, and we start the Santa thing all over again.

Happy Thanksgiving

This my catch all post. Today, I ran into some people from Baker College at McDonald's on 15 Mile Road. We sat and ate lunch together and the subject of family came up. This one particular person had no family to fight with during the holidays. Thanksgiving was on of the hardest holidays for him. I thought that this person was really lucky. No turkey to blow up in his face. Then he stated that he wish he had family to argue with during the holidays especially Thanksgiving, Easter and Christmas. He buried his brother last year, and was feeling lonely. So no matter how bad things are with your family, try to work it out, because when it is all said and done, all you have is family. Be thankful for your families, and for some of us the holiday takes a back seat because of school. Enjoy this holiday the best that you can and make the most of the time that you have. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Movies

I love to going to the movies. There is something about experiencing a movie in the theater that you just can't match at home. You are viewing it on a huge scale, and the sound system far exceeds the simple television speakers. However, I haven't been to the theater lately because I'm disappointed in the recent movie releases. Most have been Rated R. I very rarely watch movie above a PG-13 rating because they have a lot of garbage in them that I don't wish to pay $7.00 (sometimes more, depending on where you go) to see. I think it is shocking at how much questionable content is included in movies. So, I usually rent movies now. That way, I can fast forward through parts I don't wish to see, and it is cheaper (especially if I end up turning it off half way through). As for where I rent movies, I am limited to Blockbuster, if I don't want to drive a half hour away from my home. Blockbuster is my last choice because it is the most expensive and really pushes the Internet service they now have. However, Richmond's small, family-owned movie rental store went out of business, and all we have left is a blockbuster.

One of my favorite parts of movies are their soundtracks. I have many movie soundtracks on CD. It is amazing to me that a person can create such complex pieces of musical art. The whole process of composing music fascinates me, and movies would be very bland without their music, instrumental and vocal alike. Some of my favorite soundtracks include: Phantom of the Opera, Schindler's List, the Last of the Mohicans, Nicholas Nickleby, The Time Machine [I listened to the soundtrack for months before I even saw that movie], the Mask of Zorro, Pirates of the Caribbean, Mary Poppins, Memoirs of a Geisha, the Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, Amadeus, Sleepless in Seattle, and Remember the Titans.

On-line classes

I DO NOT LIKE ON-LINE CLASSES. Let me tell you why. They are impersonal. If I want to have a discussion, I would like to see the face and response of the person I am talking to. Posting my thoughts on a "discussion" board is not a discussion. There is no response most of the time, as I am just throwing my words out in the air hoping that someone will respond intelligently. Online classes have way too much busy work. To show that you are "participating" you have to log on everyday and post. Of course, they say that you only need to post 5 of 7 days, but then they give assignment due dates on all of the other days. And if you want to get all of the participation points (or get an A in the class) you must post every day. The emphasis is on the quantity of posts, not the quality. ONLINE CLASSES ARE OPEN FORUMS FOR WEIRDOS. Because you don't see the people you are responding to, you have no idea what they look like. Our outward image is an indicator to others of the person we are. I know, looks are not everything, and don't judge a person by their looks. But looks are a PART of the total package. I have found that my online class has a person who is highly/strongly opinionated, to the point where he can't see anyone else's point of view, and is very critical of anyone who does not share his viewpoint. Perhaps had I seen this person engaged in dialogue, or heard him speak (which is very different than the words we type) I could have recognized those characteristics in him and avoided what turned into a very messy online argument . I am now avoiding this person, who is choosing other members of the class to fight with now. Online classes also force group work onto people who have never met and don't know each other. An example is peer editing of papers. A stranger is going to critique my paper. Why would I want a total stranger, someone I know nothing about, who's credentials I know nothing about, who can't put a complete sentence together in a discussion board post...to critique the paper of a elementary education /language arts major? That makes as much sense as having a tanning desk clerk come and rewire my electricity in my house. Someone's going to get burned. I would much rather have my paper critiqued by a person who's opinion I trusted and valued, and who has earned the right to offer a professional opinion. I could go on and on (thanks for letting me vent) but I need to get out of this blog and go back to my online class and post. Wish me luck!

Kathy's Movie Watching (NOT!)

I have not been to the cinema to see a movie in many years. I'm not sure what kind of movie it would take to get me to go, but I know that the total lack of time is a big factor. The second biggest factor in my lack of cinema movie viewing is that my husband does not like going to the movies. when my sons were younger, I went to some movies with them, but now that they are young adults, it is not cool to go to the movies with mom. At home, I do watch some movies ; mainly chic flics or sometimes classics. I think that the last movie I watched all the way through was about 5 or 6 weeks ago, when I wasn't feeling well, and I holed up in bed one afternoon and watched "Titanic" on some cable channel. I would classify myself as a cable surfer and a "don't have the time"movie person. I figure that there is a time and a place for everything, and right now, my studies come first. I don't have the time in my life to do this college thing again, so I have to get it right and go after it with no regrets. This leaves very little time for entertainment, so I need to pick my down time activities cautiously.

I love movies!

I would love to be able to go to the movies all the time, but that would cost too much money and I don't have enough time for that. In the spring and summer I don't go to the movies that much because it is nice out and I would rather be doing something outside. So in the summer I rent more than I watch, or buy (I have a pretty big collection). In the winter my boyfriend and I tend to go to the movies more because it's something to get us out of the house and out of the cold.

I might listen to or read movie reviews but for the most part I don't listen to them or take their reviews seriously because I have found that some of the best movies have gotten terrible reviews. And the movies that get great reviews, "must see's", I usually don't like. I think that reviews are just someone else's thoughts and opinions about a movie and people should make their own minds up and not listen to what other people say.

I don't really have a certain type of movie that I like, I have a very wide and different collection with Cinderella next to Silence of the Lambs and The Notebook next to Elf. So when it comes to what picking out a movie to rent, buy or go see at the theater, the type or genre of movie doesn't really matter to me. If I like the preview and/or people in the movie I will try it. Like any movies with Julia Stiles, Denzel Washington or Will Ferrell I am going to see no matter what the reviews or anyone says about it.

In the News

Recently in the news there was a 26 year old man who also was a registered sex offender who was killed, beheaded, and started on fire. This was on the news last Thursday, but at that time they had no leads. Well it turns out that the killers were two acquantences of the man, but the real shocker for me was these two were 17 and 18 year olds that killed for the thrill. This is what they told police. I think this is absolutely disgusting that anyone would ever just kill someone for the thrill of it. It makes me wonder what this world is coming to. Our youth are killing because of what? Something needs to be done, so that when teenagers are bored they don't go to the extreme and do something that is beyond stupid and very hurendous.

My Movie Habits...

I don't typically go to the cinema unless a movie gets an awesome review or I get stir crazy and need to get out. At home is where I watch most of my movies. My boyfriend has five or six movie channels plus a whole slew of movies, so I catch myself at home watching movies more than going out. There is just something about a movie at home that sounds more comfortable and cozy than in a movie theater. When you watch a movie at home you can pause it if you need to get something or use the restroom, but when you are at the movies and have to get up, you're going to miss parts of the movie. Therefore, I think watching movies from home and renting movies to watch at home is more my style then going out, fighting traffic, and sitting in an uncomfortable seat for over an hour. This would make me a cable surfer because I watch more at home then rent or buy, so yea I'm a cable surfer. We might as well utilize cable if we're paying for it right.

I watch movies more at home.

I have to say that I rarely go to the movies. Usually I go with my family over Thanksgiving weekend to see the newest Christmas movie. It's how we start off the Christmas season. Other than that I don't usually get to the theater. It has become too expensive to take our family of six unless it is a special occasion. Plus, it is more comfortable to snuggle under a blanket on the sofa with my own bowl of popcorn and box of candy (and much cheaper, too).

These days we rent our movies from Blockbuster. Weekly we rent around three movies. One to watch on Saturday nights as a family activity. The other two for our kids over the weekend. It has definitely become more challenging to find movies that are appropriate to watch with kids ranging in age from 8 to 16 and still have it interesting for two adults. So far we still seem to manage.

I have pay-per-view but never use it since our cable bill is high enough without paying for movies. I still on occasion buy movies for my kids. They love watching the same movie over and over and over. Shrek 3 will probably be our next purchase. My daughter has loved these movies since they first came out. I enjoy it too since it has a more adult level that runs through the story line.

Movie Habits

The last time I went to the movie was when my fiancé and I went to see “Simpsons the Movie.” I am not a big fan of the Simpsons but by fiancé love, love the show. Once in a while I will sit down with him and watched a couple of episodes. However, when it is my turn to watch something I liked it is a different story especially if the movie is too girly. I believe it is the “ego.”
I normally just wait until the movies to come out on DVD or On Demand. First, I normally watch On Demand then if I liked the movie then I would buy it on DVD. I know in the long run it will cost me a lot rather than buying it on DVD but if I don’t particularly like the movie it will only cost me $4 at the most instead of $20 plus to buy it on DVD.
When it comes to TV movies I am not really fond of it. They cut out some parts for TV rating and I hate commercial. I found hating the movie because of too many commercial. I would say that I watch TV for normal TV habits and not movie viewing.

My Movie Habits

I actually go to the movies. I check out the Macomb Mall first because it is cheaper. I went to see Stardust recently. Jennifer and her friend stayed over night and we went to the dollar store picked out some candy and brought into the theater. It was good movie. It empowered women because the Star (A woman ) shined and destroyed the dark castle. It was based on a book.

I also saw No Reservations. It started out sad, but it was love story. It was about two chefs. A famous and well know chef had to take off a couple weeks to take care of things. Her sister dies and she has to make many arrangements and adopt her sister's daughter. While she is away she is replace by this guy chef who makes the staff laughs and he sings and he enjoys food. He eats with the staff where she doesn't socialize with her assistants, but he does and he has a good time being there. It was a real cute movie. Not my daughter's type of movie, so I dragged my husband.

I also saw Music and Lyrics and bought the sound track. Everyone in my family loved that picture and we all loved the music in it. So we bought the sound track. My daughter bought the movie as a present for on of her friends. I do not know if we have the movie or not.

I have the chocolate soundtrack. I do not know if I have that movie either. I do buy some movies just cannot remember which ones they are. I do have League of Their Own.

I have all the Star Trek Movies, and all the Star Wars Movies, just do not know if we picked up any recent movies. I have the Amadeus movie and sound track. The sound track is on a vinyl record. We found all our vinyl records and we are listening to them. I have Jesus Christ Superstar, Godspell, Cats and the Jazz Singer by Neil Diamond.

I mainly have exercise DVDs. I use to have VHS my husband changed the format and put all VHS on DVD, and because of that change I am not sure what we have anymore.

Our collection is pretty extensive. I would have to go down the basement and get the entire collection of movies that I own.

My first choice is actually going to the movies. Especially, when I am out of school. It is fun. It is like Yeah, I am free. NO MORE HOMEWORK, and buy a large soda and popcorn because they are refillable.

Some of the movies I get for gifts, or garage sales you can pick them up for a $1.00. We lost some of our income so we have to bargain hunt when we can. It is no longer going to FYE and picking out a movie and purchasing it. If I find it at rummage sale or at thrift store and if it is cheap enough, I will buy it. Sometimes the Main Macomb Library sells them and we get them that way. I use to rent the movies, I do not even remember when the last time I rented a movie was. TBS plays some good movies and we sit in front of the television on Friday nights and watch the PBS movie classics, but that is basically it.

The Macomb Mall is so much cheaper and it certainly more fun to have a night out than stay at home and watch an old rerun. For now the balcony is closed. Everyone have a nice night
Diane

Going to the movies

Being that my husband and I have a 22 month son, we don't go to the movies that often. We get to see a movie at the cinema about once every month or two. The movie has to look like it is going to be very good to be considered at all. Being that we can't pick up and go how we like the movie has to be advertised well and look very interesting. The other factor that has to do with us seeing a movie is of course, our schedules and if our babysitters are busy at the time we try to see the movie. Overall, we rent a lot of the movies we see. I find myself making sure I visit Blockbuster on Tuesdays waiting to catch the new releases. Wednesday and Saturday are our movie watching nights. I think I am beginning to enjoy the rental scene as opposed to going to the cinema because it is a lot more relaxing. I like to pop my popcorn, eat my twizzlers, kick my feet up and relax stretching across the couch.

Google and Gas

According to NPR, "Internet search leader Google will install its maps feature at some gas stations next month. About 3,500 gas pumps will be fitted with an Internet connection and a small color screen. You can type in where you want to go, and the pump will display a map. It will even print directions for you."

Wow...so, if you are lost, or if you just forgot to mapquest your route before taking off, you can get a map at the gas station. I wonder how much, if anything, this service will cost. If getting a gas station map does cost something, I think that the cost should be low; however, if you are like me, as soon as I feel like I am going in the wrong direction, I panic. When I am in panic-mode, I feel as though I would pay just about anything to get home. I think that this service is a good idea because many gas station attendents have no idea when it comes to giving directions. Sometimes, the gas station workers do not even speak English. What do you guys think about having Google maps at the pump?

I Like Movies

I really enjoy viewing movies at home and in the cinema. I usually physically go to the movies every couple of months or so. Either my boyfriend or myself have to really want to see the movie in order for us to have to see the movie immediately as opposed to waiting for the movie to come on DVD. Honestly, I think that I watch the most movies randomly. What I mean by that is, when I am watching a favorite show and a movie follows that show, I am likely to watch that movie. For example, last night I was watching "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" on TBS and "The Wizard of Oz" came on afterwards. I ended up watching both...just because it was on. On the weekends, I sometimes go to the library (which is a block away) and rent new releases for $1, which is a really good deal. Some of the the older movies are free, and that is an even better deal. I rarely go to Blockbuster or Hollywood video to rent movies because I usually forget to return them and they are both far from my house. Every once in a while, I will watch movies on demand, but I usually don't because the movies on demand are in the main room of our house and I like to watch TV/movies in my bedroom. Overall, I like movies, but I would rather just watch a couple short shows on TV. I will admit, I am looking forward to seeing the "Sex and the City" movie that will be in theaters in May 2008. Yay!

Blog Prompt Week of 11/12

Howdy all,

blog prompt for movie week is as follows: what are your movie viewing habits?

How often do you go TO the movies, and what does it take to get you out to the cinema? also, How often do you watch at home and do you define yourself as a buyer, a renter, a netflixer, a cable-surfer, or an I-don't-watch-many-movies-because-I-don't-have-the-time-er?

as always your second post is a catch all, or, you choice, Have a good week; see you all on Friday.

Jamie

My T.V. Habits

Well I do love t.v. but I can't seem to find time to watch it anymore. I do love soaps, all the ones on ABC but I am never home during the day to watch them anymore. So lately I only watch t.v. at night, usually right when I get home or after dinner. The shows I watch every week are The Hills on MTV, Desperate Housewives, Extreme Home Makeover and Grey's Anatomy. If I find myself with some extra time or on the weekends I usually have the t.v. on MTV, VH1, E!, or any channel that has any home improvement shows. I have a thing for reality shows too.

Pretty much I just like to watch t.v. to unwind and relax. I like to just be able to cuddle up on the couch with blanket and chill.

TV = A "Need", not a "Want"

I'll admit it- I NEED television. There are shows on TV almost every night of the week that I love. However, I don't get to watch most of them each week because I spend more time on homework, work, church stuff, and reading than watching TV. I tape the shows my sisters and I like watching and later, usually the weekend, we watch them together, fast-forwarding through the commercials- of course. I like when I get up early enough to watch the morning news and, sometimes, the Today Show. I love daytime game shows (the Pre-Drew Price is right, Family Feud, Merv griffin's Crossword) afternoon reruns (King of Queens, Everybody Loves Raymond, Hope Improvement) prime time shows (Kid Nation, ER, Big Brother, the Amazing Race, Law & Order [SVU is totally may favorite too] CSI, Cold Case, Without a Trace) and late night shows (Jay Leno, parts of Conan O'Brien and Jimmy Kimmel). I'm also a sucker for the real-life crime investigation shows and informational science programs like NOVA.

I especially love the crime/medical/law/cop drama shows, home improvement/decorating shows and some reality TV (I'm a die-hard Big Brother Fan, although I could not bring myself to watch the Finale this year because the Donatos irritated me to no end). I am a TV addict. The WHY? usually never enters my thoughts.

As I reflect and search for the reasoning, the rationalization behind my addiction, I can come up with only a few reasons. 1) It is entertaining. There is a plethora of programming available out there, even on the regular airwaves. 2) I am the reigning "Fun-Fact Queen" of my house. I love knowledge and bits of trivia. I like knowing facts about all sorts of things, people, events, history, technology. Television lets me learn more about a wide variety of fascinating topics. 3) Cable hooked me for life.

Growing up, my parents never thought that cable was worth the steep price. So, I watched cable shows every afternoon after school at my grandparents' house, just around the corner from my childhood home. Since, then, my parents got cable when we moved into a new house the year I turned 18. We had it for two years and I was hooked. We never had all movie channels and huge premium packages, but we had Comcast with the boxes, on-Demand, and one movie channel. It was funny, though, when we had cable, I spent more time channel surfing and complaining that "nothing was on" because my favorite shows weren't always on. They usually reran shows a lot and often aired the ones I was least interested in. Now that I don't have it available anymore, I think about all the shows and entire channels that I miss now that we canceled our cable a while ago (TLC, Discovery, HGTV, Bravo, TBS, History Channel, E!, Food Network, and many others).

4 th Reason- Although I no longer have a TV in my bedroom, (the power switch broke, how sad.) I am addicted to unwinding and going to sleep watching TV. For some reason, it helps me to fall asleep faster if I watch 10 minutes of my shows, or the nightly news before turning the TV off and going to sleep. It was very hard for me to fall aslepp without it when my TV broke months ago, and I even watch less TV because of not having one in my room anymore.

All Things Media:Computer use at Baker

Hey everyone:
As many of you know, I work in the Library. One of my least favorite jobs is to refill the printer paper, and to recycle the paper from print jobs that were abandoned. The reason I do not like this job is because I see what students are doing on the computer and what they are printing. For example, today, before noon, I refilled one of our printers with a ream of paper 3 times...that is 1500 sheets of paper in 3 1/2 hours from one of two student printers. I also recycled and reused at least 100 additional pages. What was on these pages that students printed up but never claimed? Copies of my -space pictures of girlfriends and boyfriends, cartoons, blog pages clearly about non-academic issues (what so and so did with what's her name last Saturday and what that makes him...). Students use the library computers for a personal e-mail station, parking for hours, and never cracking a book. Then these same students come in crying and complaining on a Wednesday night at 7:30pm when they have a 5 page research paper due the next day and all of the computers are taken and there are not enough library staff to hand walk them through the writing process. In theory, there should be a rule of some sort that would put a time limit on computer use, and the type of usage, and restrictions on printing. There are signs posted that say the computers are for library research and there is a one hour limit, but these rules are SO hard to enforce that no one really tries to. Last week, when I was not working, I needed to get on a computer to print out a reference page for my literature class, and all of the computers were taken. I asked a student who was clearly playing a video game if he could log off becasue I needed a computer for classwork, and he told me where I could go. Luckily, he changed his tune and moved on after another student told him I worked there (not that I have any authority as a work study student, but he apparently thought so). What do you all think? Should students be able to camp out for hours on the computers checking e-mail and My-space pages, and printing up multiple pages of nothingness that they don't even claim? Or should there be some sort of monitoring system to keep these computers for research and educationally related work? Also, should student printing usage be moitored or limited by some sort of computer program (that only allows the user to print X amount of copies per session/block of time/day?

Television viewing

What I watch and what I wish I had time to watch are becoming more and more different. Also, what I actually sit down and watch semi-uninterupted and what I can have on in the background while I am doing other things is another category of my television watching. What I actually watch is the news, Grey's Anatomy, and home improvement shows like trading spaces and Extreme Home Makeover. If I had the time, I would watch Oprah and the Daily Show with John Stewart (he cracks me up...he reminds me that life is funny, people are funny, and the world is funny). What I can have on in the background while I am doing other things are shows like House Hunters, Flip that House, My house is Worth What?...basically anything that is on TLC or HGTV that is about houses or realestate or even travel. I find that when we are up at our trailer, I watch more tv, and different tv (since there is no cable, and we rely on air waves for our signal, we usually watch what we can get to come in). It does get a bit quiet up there, and the TV keeps us connected to the real world! Why do I watch TV? For information, for entertainment, and every once in a grat while, just becasue I have nothing else to do (it's been a while since that happened!)

The Good Ole Days!

I was thinking about how my kids spend their free time in comparison to when I was their age. They play Nintendo Wii, watch movies or television, listen to their ipods or MP3 players, talk to their friends on their cell phones or communicate thru instant messaging or my space. No wonder there isn’t enough time to play outside or just get some fresh air. The technology that they love so much I feel in some way has imprisoned this generation.

I had television to watch but not near as many channel choices. I could only listen to my stereo in the house or in my car(when I was old enough to have one). I talked on the one telephone line in the house and fought over who could use it with my siblings. That definitely left more time for playing and using my imagination.

Sometimes I miss the Good Ole Days!!!

No Time

I don't have time to get much TV in order to have a favorite TV show. However, when I do get the extra time it is on Wednesdays. Wednesday is my free day when I don't have to work or classes. So I find myself watching America's Next Top Model on Wednesdays at 8:00 pm. The show is not too bad. It is interesting to see how far people will go to get a potential contract. I also like to watch Reba in the evening on Lifetime. When I do find the time to watch TV, it depends mainly on what sounds interesting at that time.

My life...

I don’t really watch TV in the afternoon. I mostly listen to the radio while doing homework (I know I am such a good student) or cleaning the house .However, after dinner time the TV set is mine. I normally watch TV from 7-9 pm. On weekday I normally watch Scrubs on channel 62 for about an hour. Then on Wednesday at 8 pm I must watch Americas Next Top Model. I used to hate this show because of all the drama and some of the girls are phony. But when my niece mentioned that it is her favorite show I started watching it. By watching the show it is a conversation starter and it seem like we have something in common and the fact that I started liking the show. What I liked about the show is how they come up with different photo shoot and different challenges each week. Not only the challenge is part of modeling “school” they get prices too. The prices can range from pairs of shoes, clothes, modeling lesson, and sometimes diamond jewelry. I find the show very inspiring and addicting.
I also watch a lot of ghost related shows such as the Ghost Hunter on channel 50 and Ghost Whisperer on channel 15. I found the concept of “the after life” very intriguing and very educated. It makes you wonder if there is such thing as “ghost or spirit.” I also find myself scared after watching the show.
Do you guys believe in ghost?

Guess who won, Mr T?

Yes, New England won! I was confident that they were going to win. Although, I doubted myself with 2 minutes left, fourth quarter and they were down by 10 points. But I realized it is Tom Brady and The New England Patriots. That is why they have 3 Super Bowl championships because they work as a team when they need it the most.

Hey, Mr. T can you tell me who won again?

Law and Order SVU

There is just something about this show that I can't get enough of. Oh and when they have an all day marathon; I'm right there on the couch watching every minute. However, all the plans I have for that day kind of get rescheduled. To get an idea of how much I like it; it is sort of like chocolate and I can't go very long without that. I like it because the main characters are great together, they are very strong characters, and they always get the bad guy. I like watching programs like this because the bad guy is always caught, not like in reality the bad guy some times gets away and then people are left wondering. This show is a guarantee that justice will be served. It also keeps you guessing on who the bad guy or girl could be and sometimes it's the person who you least expect. The funny thing about this is that I got my boyfriend hooked on it as well and together we try to figure out who it is. He now complains because he too is letting stuff wait to be done because the show has come on. However, this is not all I watch; I do watch other shows, but not as much as I watch Law and Order. It is sort of an addiction, and the one thing being affected is my sleep because it comes on at eight for two hours on USA and again on channel 4 at 11.

♥ Myspace ♥

Can you believe how much Myspace has grown over the last few years? I personally believe that Myspace is a great way for people to communicate and share common interests. I actually have a Myspace account that I use to get in contact with old friends and classmates. I also use Myspace as a great and free way to share pictures with friends and family. I, like many other Myspace users, have a private account that strangers cannot view. I also have my profile set to strict friend requesting settings in order to avoid some wacko requesting to be my friend.

Since I've had my Myspace account, I have heard Myspace talk all over the media. On SNL, Myspace was mentioned several times and Zach Braff, star of Scrubs, announced on the David Letterman Show that he had a Myspace account as well. Unfortunately, because Myspace is a free service that anyone with an Internet connection can get involved with, there are numerous people who abuse their Myspace privileges. Some people create fake accounts and others create accounts just so they can "cyber stalk" people with Myspace accounts. Also, I recently heard that employers are checking to see if their employees have Myspace accounts. I am not sure if understand why it is such a big deal for people to have Myspace accounts. I just think that it is a fun way to chat and reconnect.

I can't live without my soap!!

Ever since I can remember I watch General Hospital Monday thru Wednesday at 3:00 pm. There was a time when I even taped it daily so that I wouldn't miss any episode. Then when I had a quiet moment I would watch what I had taped. I even taped it if we were going on vacation so that when we arrived back home I could catch up on the missed episodes. I love the story lines and the characters. It has become my escape from the daily routine and stress. When my kids were little I watche when they napped so that I had a rest time also!!

My mother-in-law watches it as religiously as I do. Then we compare what we saw and what we think will happen in the coming days. Now my teenage daughter is watching it with me. We'll see if she becomes addicted or not. It's how I started. I'd be lost if they ever took it off the air!!

Gilmore Girls

My favorite television show was the Gilmore Girls. It was on Tuesday nights at eight o'clock on CW TV channel 5. It was about a relationships.

Not just mother and daughter relationships, but on relationship in general. Business partner and friend relationships. Suki and Lorelei were best friends and they went into business together.
They bought and ran the Dragon Fly Inn.
Suki cooked and Lorelei did everything else. Lorelei ran the business part of the Inn. Michele Taylor and Jackson were the funny part of the show. Kurt, was the village idiot, and they had ministerial on the street corner singing about Star's Hallow.
Michele was French and had a stuck up personality. He took reservations and made sure all the rooms were in order.

Emily and Lorelei had a shaky relationship. Emily is from a very prominent family and is very well to do and very judgemental. Loralie went to work at a Inn when she was 16. She had a child to support. I see my aunts and my mom in Emily. if I told them they would deny it but all of them have some part of the Emily character in them. There are days I wish I had their writers.

I have not found a show as nicely written as this one. Nor have I found the quality of this show. I really enjoyed this show a lot. So much that I bought the six episodes of the DVD. I bought the Friends video tapes, but was not able to use them the show went into syndication and I watch it that way.

Have not really found programs that I enjoy. I watch Tavis Smiley and Charlie Rose, Keeping up with Appearances, Are You Being Served, and As Time Goes By. Which is only on the Weekends. I do not see that show very often.

I have not seen any shows that I am particularly interested in at this time. I tried to follow the new fall line-up but I have not seen anything of real substance. I try to follow the Office but to me that show is boring and I do not get the humor.

I Have a lot of homework and really do not have time to watch television, but I am working on it. Maybe I will find a good show while I am comparing PBS to Commerical Television. I found Frontline it is on Tuesday nights at 9:00 p.m. on PBS.

Blog Prompt for the week of 11/4

Howdy all - we're studying TV this week in class (yea!) - the idoit box, the boob tube, replacing the fireplace.

your blog prompt for this week is a simple one, but one that will pull strings and show some of our complexities:

What do you watch, when do you watch, why do you watch?

What on the TV MUST you have - what show(s) can't you live without.
(Remember that your second blog for the week is a catch all - it's you choice).

Have a good week; i'll see you on Friday.

Jamie

I ♥ Television

Hello class.


I suppose that it is safe to say that I have varying television habits. When I am home during the day (from 10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m.), I usually watch Court TV. Court TV, for those who do not know, broadcasts actual trials that are occurring in the United States. As the trials are broad casted, several comments are made from retired and practicing lawyers, which are usually helpful. I find Court TV to be very interesting and educational and I feel as though I have learned an abundance of information from Court TV--in regards to the law. During the school year, I have a hard time catching my favorite television shows because I have class in the evening; however, if I can, I like to watch The Office on Thursday nights. I also enjoy watching reruns of "Friends", "Everybody Loves Raymond", and "Sex and the City" on TBS before bed. Oftentimes, I just like to have the TV on in the background.



On the weekends, I like to watch the movies on demand if I have time. I also like to watch "The Family Guy" on Sunday evenings. Now that I think about it, I really like watching TV. I am not the type of person who will sit and watch TV all day nor am I the type of person who will create a schedule around specific television programs, but if I am at home with nothing to do, I will turn the TV on. Recently, I discovered that "Oprah" airs at 1:00 a.m. for all of the night owls or people who cannot sleep.

Over the summer, I had a great time channel surfing and finding obscure shows on who knows what stations to watch. I watched a lot of "Inside the Actor's Studio" on Bravo and miscellaneous concerts on Detroit Public Television. I think that I watched the most TV that I ever have over the last summer. I felt like such a couch potato. Before I end my list of television habits, I have to tell all of you that I love seasonal shows such as: "The Christmas Story," "It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown," and "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" and because I am usually on break (from school and work) when those terrific shows air, I find the time to watch them.

Overall, I think that it is safe to say that I really like television. I think that watching TV is very entertaining and I think that it would be really strange to live in a house without TV.

Last Friday

Well it's getting late on Thursday...Grey's Anatomy is almost over :-) So I guess it's time for me to post. Class went good last week. I was happy to get out early, it was nice to get some errands done.

Class went good last week, the substitute was good and it went better with her than I thought it would. I thought it would be really weird and different but she did a good job and we had a discussions like usual. I liked hearing about all the different kinds of books people have read or are reading. I wish I had some time so I could read for pleasure, but I don't see that happening anytime soon. The videos were also interesting, it was neat to see how they come up with ideas for ads and stuff. I still don't really understand how they come up with some of the stuff they do. Whenever I see a commercial that I just don't get or one that is really dumb I always think, "someone was paid to come up with that junk." But all in all class was good, and I hope everyone doesn't miss me too much tomorrow, I will be on a field trip with my 4th grade class that I am about to student teach for! I hope everyone had a good Halloween and has a good weekend!

Last TGIF

The class went great and the fact that we got out early. I liked the substitute teacher I have her in my other class too. We had some interesting discussion like Oprah’s bookclub. How Oprah’s choice of book can influence a lot of people. I liked the videos very interesting.

I found out that there are lots of things to consider when making a commercial. For example, the tide commercial, the commercial gives you a sense of closeness. The commercial industry wants to catch your attention in a more intimate way such as your favorite song or whatever it might be.

The commercial industry is feeling the effect of the growing technology. Now if you have Tivo you can just fast forward the entire commercial and right in to your show/movie. Right there the industry is losing “you” as their buyer.

All in all it was very good discussion. Not only we (students) learned something but I think the substitute teacher too.

FRIDAY 10/26/ 2007

Hi everyone,

Class last week was interesting. We all realized that Opra Winfrey is human and she makes mistakes. Just like a regular person.


Wish the subject was better. The books were good, but the surveys and focus group was boring.

But are the surveys helpful? Marketing is based on 20 people opinions. The group was not that diverse. Marketers are guessing. They are paid to guess. The French guy base his definition on a group of people. He could be wrong. It is just ridculous how much money they spend to market a product, and how much a person gets paid to think of campaign slogan. That just isn't fair?

I work parttime trying to make ends meet and these people have to sell a product and they can afford a Coach brief case with out even a second thought. As instructor you ought to be furious. Teachers ought to be making that kind of money.
After all you are teaching generations of people. instructors help shape the future. Isn't that more important? Just a thought

Last week's class

Last week went OK. I felt like we were sortof tight with our personal comments, like we were talking with a stranger in the room. I guess it felt like we weren't as personal, but that is to be expected. On a personal note, I am having trouble with the blog. For the second week in a row, I get a message when I try to log on that says my invitation has expired, and I have to create a new account. Last week, I could not post from home, only from Baker, and even then I had to recreate my account before I could post. I don't think that both of my posts from last week went through, as I only saw one of them when went back to check, so I think that a post is floating around somewhere. Short of resetting my google account every time I post, how do I just go directly to this blog? I have just been trying to access the blog from the e-mail you sent us 1st week Or are the problems I am having normal?

Last Friday

I thought the class went very well. We had great discussions that was respected by each other. I found the videos to be very interesting. I saw another side of how advertisement is created. I got to see the behind the scenes as opposed to just seeing the end product. I also enjoyed hearing the books that were read by others. I look forward to reading some of them once I have more time. The substitute is actually my teacher for this quarter. It was nice having her for an extra day. I appreciate her for receiving and giving ideas to all the topics that were discussed in class. Overall, she allowed the class to be very comfortable and able to go on just like we would if you were there.

Last Friday's Class

Class went well last friday, despite the change in instructor! Though our substitute was very nice, and she did a great job running the class, it felt very different than our usual class. Overall, it went well and I even heard our substitute comment, as we were leaving, that she had a good time and that we were a great group to work with.

I was very fascinated by the clips of the frontline special. Even though we don't think about it, we are bombarded by marketing in many forms in our lives. I don't think that we are dumb to fall for marketing- it is crafted to be an unnoticed focre that silently persuades us to make certain purchasing decisions. I was especially interested in the french psychologist/marketing guy, Clotaire Rapaille, with his methods of finding the "code" that would work for marketing certain kinds of products. I would have loved to be part of one of his focus groups. At the end of the segment on Rapaille, I was a bit disappointed that we didn't learn more about the code, but I guess that's what he is paid for. If the show was allowed to broadcast the end result of his research, any marketing company would get it for free. In addition, I was really happy with the way we went over our journal assignment on taking sides. Our class is very opinionated and knowledgable as a whole, so the timed response with no rebuttals was a good idea.

Last Friday!

I enjoyed the substitite and she did a great job. No there wasn't another fire drill. The advertising videos were very interesting and it is sort of pathetic that people will buy the name brand stuff because of all the media time it gets, but as with any product; food is the exception, it is the name that you are paying for, not that it may work better than the generic brand. However, the media doesn't show the generic brands therefore people automatically think that it may not be as good, so they spend the money. Well earlier in the class you had said that when consuming media, you have to be educated. Then that should make people do the research on the different products, and then they will find out that there really isn't a difference in them. Food products are the exception because some generic brands taste nothing like the name brand product. Another thing is we all get colds and we all go shopping for what ever medicine will help us feel better, so the last time that I did this I compared the different cold medicines in price, discription, symptoms that they relieved, and four of the six I looked at had a similar look if not the same look as the name brand product. Granted some people may argue with me, but if it looks the same and has the same ingredients; how the heck is it any different? Personally, I'm not going to spend the money on name brand if I can get generic brand for three dollars less.

Last Weeks Class

Class last week was very interesting. I especially enjoyed the videos about advertising. I worked at an advertising agency in Warren for a few years but I never saw anything like we saw in the videos. I never knew how much advertising depended on people and their behaviors. Some of it made sense and then some of it seemed very far fetched. The psychologist I felt went way out on a limb in his sessions with people trying to find the special words that describe luxury in order to sell it to advertising agencies. I know that what he does wouldn't work for me because I tend to shop value instead of impulse.
We had a very good discussion about the books we read for pleasure. I learned about some books that I will add to my list of "Want to Read" for my school breaks.

A Comment About Class

Hello class!

I felt as though class went really well on Friday. I really enjoyed watching the videos on advertising. I can't believe how hard advertisers work to get us to buy their products! Some of the video even seemed humorous at times, but obviously some of advertising stuff is working! The only ad that I really didn't like was "Song." The main reason why I didn't really like that ad was because I had no idea what was being advertised. I was thinking that it was some sort of music software or computer program. Unfortunately, I never thought that the ads were for an airline until I was told.

During class, we had the opportunity to discuss the books that we read, which went along with chapter 2. Also, we worked in groups and created a couple lists of interview and survey questions. We also discussed the issue in Taking Sides, which was timed. Some of the class agreed with the issue but others disagreed or had mixed feelings. We wrapped up the class by turning in our group work and our papers.

It was really weird not having you in class!

See you all on Friday.

Blog for the week of 10/29

Hi all,

sorry about getting this Blog Prompt out so late this week - I had some things that kept me in Houston longer than I planned. Since I am late getting this out to you, I will only require one posting for the week. And, since I wanted some feedback about how Friday went with the substitute, I will go ahead and kill two bird with one stone.

All you owe the blog for this week is a short post letting me know how the class went last Friday. I hope that it went well and that it was interesting. Let me know how things went. Was there another fire drill?

See you all on Friday,

Jamie

Need help restarting Dylan's couch.

I could not get the video to play.

But I did get to see Dylan's Couch. It would pause in the middle. I did not get to view the end.

But that one verb of his name Dude, You would look awesome naked. I know that he ditched the note, but I cannot get to the end of it. If any one can make a copy or send it to me. Please do. Or even reblog it so that we can play it. It will only play half. But it was funny.

The other one that I liked and he did not like any of them was that damaged yellow lemons are nasty. That was funny he too. If anyone can get working it would be great. Some pretty funny stuff.

Reading for Pleasure

What is reading for pleasure?? :-) During school I never have time to read for pleasure. Before this semester I started reading The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama. I have never been a big political follower or the type to read a book like this but I had heard some good things about it and him and my Grandma had it so I borrowed it. I must say that a few sentences into it and I was hooked. I have probably only read about a quarter of the book but I like it a lot. It has also made me like him a lot. He has so many great things to say and he just seems like such a good guy, who has some good ideas. He comes out and says that he doesn't have any answers, just some ideas and that we need to get things back to the basics, hope, trust, faith, etc. A lot of people are still not too sure about him, mostly because of his race, and that is pretty sad. I would hope at this point out country would be ready for a leader or a different race or gender, but I'm not sure if he would win just because of that one factor. Hopefully I will get to finish this book sometime soon, but with the semester half over and student teaching creeping up fast, I don't know when that will happen.

To end here is a little section from the book that I really like...it is something that he said to people during his first run for a political office when they asked, "why such a nice guy like him would want to go into something so nasty like politics?"

..."I would usually smile and nod and say that I understood the skepticism, but that there was--and always had been--another tradition to politics, a tradition that stretched from the days of the country's founding to the glory of the civil rights movement, a tradition based on the simple idea that we have a stake in one another, and that what binds us together is greater than what drives us apart, and that if enough people believe in the truth of that proposition and act on it, then we might not solve every problem, but we can get something meaningful done."

Technology has its moments!

Today I was thinking about whether technology has made my life easier. The last two mornings I attempted to log onto my computer only to find out I have something wrong with my antivirus software. Therefore, this morning I spent an hour and a half removing my software and deciding to download the free one that came with Comcast. Gateway computers had recently told me they don't recommend Norton Antivirus anylonger.
This is why I began to think about easy or not in regards to technology. On the one hand I can look up the weather forcast at the touch of my keyboard, or jot a couple lines by way of email to my sister and she can see it almost immediately. I can shop from home or go to school from home. On the other hand, I have had to learn how to remove spyware that finds its way into my files. I have had to learn how to download antivirus software to keep my computer safe. Or to research the antivirus software choices that are available to everyone and to make the best choice for my family. Unfortunately, I don't necessarily understand what makes one software work better for me versus another.
I have to say that since technology has entered my household I spend more time taking care and cleaning up problems than I do enjoying it. When my computer crashed a couple months ago due to a computer virus, it took me four hours on the phone with Gateway Computers to set my computer up again. And that was to the original state. Then another complete day of downloading updates to get it back to the way I want it. So I think my life was much simpler before technology. But I do enjoy the perks.

7 Benefits of Reading Fiction

I found this interesting article about reading, and thought I'd share it with you. I give you an abbreviated form of the article. If you want to know more, the web address is at the bottom of this post.

7 Benefits of Reading Fiction
Reading fiction can seem like an absolute indulgence when life goes into overdrive. But did you know it's good for you? Yes, really!

Is your life so busy you’re wondering how you are going to find time to read more, especially when it’s just for ‘pleasure’? Having trouble justifying it, even to yourself? Leisure activities like reading are often the things that slide when life goes into overdrive. And that’s sad because it’s an activity that can make life richer and more enjoyable. A lot has been written about the benefits of reading for and to children. However, there is very little about the benefits to adults in engaging in regular reading. Let me assure you that the benefits for adults do exist and are many and varied.

Some of these include:
1. Providing an escape from the day-to-day
2. Relaxation
3. Stress relief
4. Stimulates the right side of your brain
5. Entertaining
6. Enjoyable
7. Rejuvenating

http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/8-22-2005-75260.asp

Other articles about the benefits of reading:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/richpub/syltguides/fullview/1SZBLBQQC6PV6
http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/articles/article.aspx?articleId=2343
http://www.bartleby.com/268/5/12.html
http://www.focusonyourchild.com/entertain/art1/A0000246.html
http://school.familyeducation.com/teen/reading/40617.html

Books I have read

Since I currently have an online literature class, and I have to read an ethnic literature book, post to discussion boards write a journal entry and write a research paper about the book every week, I do not have time to read what I would like to read. The last book that I read for my own pleasure was in the late summer. It was a Danielle Steele novel, "Safe Harbour". What I like about her books is that they are NOT just romance novels (if anyone has read them, you know what I am talking about!) When she writes, she really researches her topic, and brings real facts into the story. An example is the use of setting. The places where the story takes place are real, including the street names and places of interest. If her book is set in the past, or involves a historical event, the reader almost gets a mini history lesson in reading the story. I wish that I had the time to read other books, but with my classload, it is all I can do to get my homework done! The books I have read for my class are "A Gathering of Old Men" by Ernest Gaines, "Their Eyes Were Watching God" by Zora Hurston, "The Joy Luck Club" by Amy Tan, and "House Made of Dawn" by N.Scott Momaday. I think that I would only choose to willingly read "Joy Luck Club" and "Their Eyes..."....I did enjoy those two books (and I also enjoyed the movie versions.)

The Joy of Reading

As with many other people, I usually don't make time during the quarter to read a book I want to read, because I have so much required reading in my textbooks. However, this quarter, I decided I would make the time to read because it is one of my most favorite "leisure" activities. I enjoy the whole process of researching authors and publishers and spending time at the library, browsing the shelves, enjoying the quiet atmosphere. I enjoy reading- it does actually bring me joy to sit down and read a book. So, I've spent the couple hours a week that I would have usually been watching TV and I started reading for me again.

Currently, I'm reading Prairie Fire, by Catherine Palmer. It is historical fiction set in late nineteenth-century Kansas. When I am reading, I am caught up in the characters' world. As I read deeper into the book, the images in my mind of the characters and places in the book get more and more detailed. Also, when I read a book over a longer period of time, I find myself wondering about the characters and the coming events in the book, even when I'm doing something else at the time. My mind is invested in the book, and I sort of feel like I know the characters. This is especially true when I read books in a series.

I especially enjoy historical fiction or stories that are set in interesting times or places. I learn so much about history, far-off places, unfamiliar cultures, or whole time periods, when I read books that are well-researched and well-written by the author.

I picked Prairie Fire after I searched the publishing company at the library. I've read numerous books published by the same company, and I trust that the content of the books it chooses to market will be of a certain caliber. I've found that while publishing companies may have diverse offerings, they usually have set standards for what kind of literature they will print. I have a few favorite publishers that I search at the library when I want to find new authors. Some publishing companies even set up "imprints," or smaller, specialized sections of the company that have their own name. These imprints are used to find, fine-tune, print, and market books with specific qualities. The imprint will usually deal with books that have some similar trait.

Cedar Point

Over the weekend, I went to experience "Halloweekends" at Cedar Point with my sister and our boyfriends. Since I haven't been to Cedar Point in several years, I was very surprised to see the massive structures that are often referred to as "rides." I can honestly say that I was scared to ride some of the newer roller coasters and I had an extreme amount of anxiety as I waited in line to ride "Millennium Force." However, it wasn't enough that I had to ride the extremely scary rides. I was also succumbed to see the horrified look on my face after I rode the rides on a series of screens that captured my image. Better yet, some of the rides even have a video of each cart, which was available for purchase just in case you wanted to watch it at a later date for some laughs. All I can say about this is "Are you kidding me?" Why in the world would I want a picture of myself going a million miles per hour down a steep hill? Wouldn't that be a priceless YouTube video? I think that these roller coaster images and videos are just some other ways for Cedar Point to be advertised. I mean, think about it. If I bought one of the over priced videos and showed it to all of my friends and told them it was from the one and only Cedar Point, wouldn't that be a form of advertising?

No Time to Read

I haven't read a novel in a while. The last one I read was about 3 months ago. After Burn by Zane was very interesting. She writes romance novels that sometime have a connection to her other novels. I read her book Addicted that my cousin told me about. I found it to be very interesting so I searched for another one of her novels. I found that this novel was to be continued which was upsetting because I wanted to know what happened but on the other hand, I look forward to the next novel. She is so descriptive and makes all of her characters come to life. I also heard that she will be making a movie out of one of her novels. That is very exciting because it will nice to put a face to names. I can't wait until I have more time to read another novel by Zane.

Media now!

Media today has a way of getting people to buy or respond to the things that are broadcasted and advertised. I paid attention to media before, but not nearly as much as I do now. I guess now as an adult the media has more of an impact on my life and how I live it. I work with children and I'm going into teaching, so my view is a little bit more strict than some one who may not be around children. The cartoons, the clothing, the language you name it, is not censored enough because it still influences are youth. A perfect example is, alcohol comercials; they show people having fun and at the bottom of the screen in captions( Drink responsibly). However, I think media does not show the negative side of things enough. For every positive there is a negative and I think it is about time to start showing these negatives. The reason that this needs to happen is because there are more youths dying because of alcohol related deaths than any other cause. Media does make an impact on people both negative and positive, but media needs to step it up and put more emphasize on the consequences of these things.

The Child Called “It”

The last time I read a book for enjoyment was The Child Called “It” by Dave Pelzer. This was a year ago, I was sitting in my early childhood class and in that class we were talking about child abuse. All of a sudden this girl mentioned the book. She explained what the book was about, and I found myself very intrigued and curious about it. So the very next day I went and bought the book. I finished the book in three hours. This book was the fastest book I ever read in my life.

This book is an emotional drain. It is about a little boy who was not wanted by his mom. She treated him terribly, wouldn't feed him, beat, and at one point stubbed him. I found myself almost in tears and confused. Confused of how Dave’s dad did little to stop the abuse and how no one really cares about Dave’s well being. I just wanted to take him in my arms and never let him go. I wanted to protect him in anyway possible.

After reading the book I found my self depressed and sad. But at the same time happy because I am fortunate enough to have a loving, caring and happy family.

This book did very well change my understanding of child abuse and what actually is happening out there. The book leaves the reader with many questions and gives the reader better understanding that child abuse do really happen.