Week Nine. Task Five and Six.
I think that to understand Semantic Web, one has to have basic understanding on what Web 3.0 is.
Web 3.o is alot more complex than Web 2.0, it can be described as a personal assistant. The internet will be able to remember likes/dislikes as well as location. One would be able to extensive questions all at once, and the web would be able to help/answer. Such as, I would be able to type "I want to get the bus into my nearest shopping centre, then go to the cinema to see a horror film", and the internet search engine will be able answer it all at once, as well as taking into consideration previous searches, likes, location and so on. Web 3.0 will be able to make the link between the individual and their online needs, giving them the information they ask for as well as much more. I think that Web 3.0 will come in slowly and there wont be a time when we say "we know use Web 3.0", it will just happen gruadually.
Semantic Web is an extension of the World Wide Web but with meaning and is an extension of Web 3.0. It is called "Semantic" because semantics are the meaning behind things. It is a means of sharing information and content. Its a way of information not only being stored and shared but actually being understod by internet and the realtionships and properities between the content and information, so it is easy to see why it is linked to Web 3.0.
The difference is difficult to understand. However, I think that Web 3.0 is what we get from the internet, whilst Semantic Web is how it all works and fits together inside the technology itself.
Wednesday, 25 March 2009
Digital Divide
Week Nine. Task two.
There are two lots of divides digitally.
In terms of location and economy, not everyone can afford the internet or computers. In third world countries this is often the case. But this often applies to low-income households all over the world. This creates a divide, and is often linked to income. People may feel inferrior if they do not have access to the internet, in education, as children may be left behind as other children know how to use computers and they do not, this creates problems in learning as well as socially. It can cause problems in the work place, as finding jobs in the 21st century with no internet knowledge will be hard. There may cause social problems, in general conversation. For example, I find it strange if someone does not have a Facebook account, let alone not have the internet.
There is also a divide between people that have knowledge and people that dont-digital natives and immigrants, as discussed in my other posts. Digital immigrants may think they have more knowledge and the natives may feel inferrior.
There are two lots of divides digitally.
In terms of location and economy, not everyone can afford the internet or computers. In third world countries this is often the case. But this often applies to low-income households all over the world. This creates a divide, and is often linked to income. People may feel inferrior if they do not have access to the internet, in education, as children may be left behind as other children know how to use computers and they do not, this creates problems in learning as well as socially. It can cause problems in the work place, as finding jobs in the 21st century with no internet knowledge will be hard. There may cause social problems, in general conversation. For example, I find it strange if someone does not have a Facebook account, let alone not have the internet.
There is also a divide between people that have knowledge and people that dont-digital natives and immigrants, as discussed in my other posts. Digital immigrants may think they have more knowledge and the natives may feel inferrior.
Wegner and Prensky: Do they relate in terms of education?
Week Nine. Task One.
Wegner's theories on Communities of Practice are mainly about ideology. Groups of individuals grouped together with a shared ideology. With students, there are many shared ideology, the thirst and interest in learning is one of them.
Prensky believes in a "digital divide" between digital natives and immigrants, and this can be applied to education. As traditionally, the adult lecturers are immigrants and may struggle adjusting to the technology, as well as its relevance to the students they teach.
The students are able to learn and communicate digitally, through their knowledge and interest in social networking, msn and so on. These students can also research in their own time through different mediums. This makes the digital divide obvious and large between students and lecturers/teachers.
Wegner's theories on Communities of Practice are mainly about ideology. Groups of individuals grouped together with a shared ideology. With students, there are many shared ideology, the thirst and interest in learning is one of them.
Prensky believes in a "digital divide" between digital natives and immigrants, and this can be applied to education. As traditionally, the adult lecturers are immigrants and may struggle adjusting to the technology, as well as its relevance to the students they teach.
The students are able to learn and communicate digitally, through their knowledge and interest in social networking, msn and so on. These students can also research in their own time through different mediums. This makes the digital divide obvious and large between students and lecturers/teachers.
Technophiles
Technophiles are individuals that thrive on new technology, actively seek it out and easily adapt and use it easily. As well as it playing a large part in their lives.
I believe university in 2020, will be based around web-learning. A technophile student will enjoy this. I think distance-learning online will be alot more common. In 2020, at a stretch, maybe students will not even need to attend lectures, as they could watch them online. I think that the Web 3.0 will be so much more important, not simply just for research and lecture notes, which is how every student (not just technophiles) use technology to help their studies.
I believe university in 2020, will be based around web-learning. A technophile student will enjoy this. I think distance-learning online will be alot more common. In 2020, at a stretch, maybe students will not even need to attend lectures, as they could watch them online. I think that the Web 3.0 will be so much more important, not simply just for research and lecture notes, which is how every student (not just technophiles) use technology to help their studies.
Someone who threatens the notion of native/immigrant
I have already touched upon the main point of this post in a previous posting. I believe that there is no such thing as a digital native and a digital immigrant. As people will never be digital natives, as technological advances are changing constantly as well as their relevance in people's lives. People will constantly have to adapt to the new "environment" of technology.
I dont think I know anyone that I know threatens this notion, because I do not think it truly exsists. Especially as I think everyone was once a digital native when it comes to things involving Web 2.0. I think that I'm a prime example of this. I do not pick up new technology well, however, with time and lots of useage I eventually get used to technology, however, I think this is because me (and others) have to, to get along in modern life. Especially at university. People retain their "accent" when becoming a digital native and therefore no one will ever be a full digital immigrant.
If one was to consider this notion as exsisting, I think any adult in their 40s that even know how to use the internet threatens this idea, because they were once an immigrant and are gradually becoming natives. So, I think that no one is really a native or an immigrant in the digital world.
I dont think I know anyone that I know threatens this notion, because I do not think it truly exsists. Especially as I think everyone was once a digital native when it comes to things involving Web 2.0. I think that I'm a prime example of this. I do not pick up new technology well, however, with time and lots of useage I eventually get used to technology, however, I think this is because me (and others) have to, to get along in modern life. Especially at university. People retain their "accent" when becoming a digital native and therefore no one will ever be a full digital immigrant.
If one was to consider this notion as exsisting, I think any adult in their 40s that even know how to use the internet threatens this idea, because they were once an immigrant and are gradually becoming natives. So, I think that no one is really a native or an immigrant in the digital world.
The youngest digital immgirant I know...
The youngest digital immgrant I know of, were some individuals at my school. I went to quite a posh and therefore religious school and there were some children's paretns were extremely well off but very traditionalist in terms of technology, including limited television useage (if any) and no computers, let alone mobile phones. This meant that when it came to interactive learning at school, they had to make the transition from a neo-luddite background to digital immigrant. In this day and age, it is hard to be a digital native as technophobia is frowned upon and almost everything is digitalised and becoming more technological in every aspects of our lives.
Monday, 23 March 2009
Oldest natives and immigrants in my life...
I think the oldest digital immigrant I know is my grandad, who is about seventy years old. He lives in Spain and is constantly in touch via email, and has a laptop in his house. He also has Sky television in his house, which is obviously a big step for someone who as a child never even had a TV. He also has a mobile phone (admittedly, he does struggle to use it sometimes) and last time he visited he had an mp3 player, even though this was filled with classical music and audio books, it is still fairly modern. I think he is the perfect example of digital immgration.
The oldest digital native I know, I believe, are us; our generation. As I constantly see adults struggling with modern technology. Not necesarily the technology (for example, they know how to work mobile phones) but they fail to see the relevance they have in our lives (my mum does not understand why I text "constantly" or need an iPod than holds more than a 100 songs). My mum's boyfriend would probably describe himself as a digital native as he runs and designs websites for Halifax Bank, however mp3 players baffle him. I believe this is the perfect example and reason why no one, especially the older generation are digital natives.I believe that soon we will all have to be digital immigrants as we have to get used to new and improved technology, and how we use this technology and its relevance will be different for everyone and every genertation.
The oldest digital native I know, I believe, are us; our generation. As I constantly see adults struggling with modern technology. Not necesarily the technology (for example, they know how to work mobile phones) but they fail to see the relevance they have in our lives (my mum does not understand why I text "constantly" or need an iPod than holds more than a 100 songs). My mum's boyfriend would probably describe himself as a digital native as he runs and designs websites for Halifax Bank, however mp3 players baffle him. I believe this is the perfect example and reason why no one, especially the older generation are digital natives.I believe that soon we will all have to be digital immigrants as we have to get used to new and improved technology, and how we use this technology and its relevance will be different for everyone and every genertation.
Neo-Luddites
Neo-luddites are those that are against the development of technology. One believes that in this country in 2009, it is relatively impossible to be completley against technology. This term started in the Industrial Revoultion, when individuals were against the devolpment of machines that made their lives easier.
In my daily life, as a university student, I am constantly using technology. From checking my emails to Facebook when I wake up, to texting my friends and listening to my iPod Nano on the way to lectures. Often these lectures require prior research, we often do this by researching online (usually on our own personal laptops). However, as students, we sometimes have to take out library books, without modern technology this would be alot harder. Our library is particularly modern, with self-service checkout points, as well as alarms (upon exit without checking out the book), these are all controlled by the magnetic strip inside the book. Even searching for the book involves technology, as one as to search on the special designed computer programme to be able to find which floor the book is on, and then one would usual take the lift to the next floor.
Back to the lecture, these are usually given by a lecturer who uses powerpoint presentations to helo get their message across. These are also then posted online for us to download, print out, and learn from. After lectures, I will usually watch TV on my LSD flatscreen which has Freeview and a DVD player built in, a neo-luddite would not be happy about this all-in-one, very modern (and very expensive) piece of not really necessary equipment.
On certain days, if one was to shop, we can not avoid technology-with electronic tagging of goods and payment systems (especially as I never carry cash). On more random days, a modern individual is in contact with a large amount of technology in hospitals- someone who is against the advancement of technology may have a problem when it comes to the very extensive and very modern technology now present in most areas of hospitals.
Neo-luddites have some good ideas as to why advancements in technology are bad, such as people cutting themselves of from the world (not the case however with mobile phones/email), dehumanization, health problems and to a larger extent, nuclear warfire. I believe that advancements in technology are good and it is up to the individual and society to use the technology how they wish and how much influence it has on their lives. Personally, I couldnt be against advancements in technology, because I couldnt be without the technology I have in my life.
In my daily life, as a university student, I am constantly using technology. From checking my emails to Facebook when I wake up, to texting my friends and listening to my iPod Nano on the way to lectures. Often these lectures require prior research, we often do this by researching online (usually on our own personal laptops). However, as students, we sometimes have to take out library books, without modern technology this would be alot harder. Our library is particularly modern, with self-service checkout points, as well as alarms (upon exit without checking out the book), these are all controlled by the magnetic strip inside the book. Even searching for the book involves technology, as one as to search on the special designed computer programme to be able to find which floor the book is on, and then one would usual take the lift to the next floor.
Back to the lecture, these are usually given by a lecturer who uses powerpoint presentations to helo get their message across. These are also then posted online for us to download, print out, and learn from. After lectures, I will usually watch TV on my LSD flatscreen which has Freeview and a DVD player built in, a neo-luddite would not be happy about this all-in-one, very modern (and very expensive) piece of not really necessary equipment.
On certain days, if one was to shop, we can not avoid technology-with electronic tagging of goods and payment systems (especially as I never carry cash). On more random days, a modern individual is in contact with a large amount of technology in hospitals- someone who is against the advancement of technology may have a problem when it comes to the very extensive and very modern technology now present in most areas of hospitals.
Neo-luddites have some good ideas as to why advancements in technology are bad, such as people cutting themselves of from the world (not the case however with mobile phones/email), dehumanization, health problems and to a larger extent, nuclear warfire. I believe that advancements in technology are good and it is up to the individual and society to use the technology how they wish and how much influence it has on their lives. Personally, I couldnt be against advancements in technology, because I couldnt be without the technology I have in my life.
Thursday, 19 March 2009
Should education "stretch" a person, do you think?
Week Nine.Task Three.
"Stretch" in terms of education, I believe, means to expand and grow, but mainly to challenge. I think education should attempt to expand people's knowledge. People should be challenged (or "stretched") in terms of learning. I believe challenging people encourages people to try harder and reach the best of their ability, and possibly even further than that, thus making the person more inelligent and/or gain more knowledge about a variety of things. I believe "stretching" people through education, will help individuals get the most of what they are learning about Also, I think that if people stretch themselves in education, they are more likely to try hadrer and stretch themselves in other aspects of their lives. Such as hobbies, sports and relationships.
"Stretch" in terms of education, I believe, means to expand and grow, but mainly to challenge. I think education should attempt to expand people's knowledge. People should be challenged (or "stretched") in terms of learning. I believe challenging people encourages people to try harder and reach the best of their ability, and possibly even further than that, thus making the person more inelligent and/or gain more knowledge about a variety of things. I believe "stretching" people through education, will help individuals get the most of what they are learning about Also, I think that if people stretch themselves in education, they are more likely to try hadrer and stretch themselves in other aspects of their lives. Such as hobbies, sports and relationships.
Sunday, 15 March 2009
Articles Used
Week Eight. Topic Four.
Article 1:
Livingstone, S and Helsper, E (2007) "Gradations in Digital Inclusion: Children, Young People and the Digital Divide". New Media and Society. Volume 9: Issue 4.
Article 2:
McMillian S and Morrison M (2006) "Coming of age, with the internet: A qualitive exploration of how the internet has become an integral part of young people's lives". New Media and Society. Volume 8: Issue 1.
Article 3:
Mastronardi M (2003) "Adolescence and Media". Journal of Language and Social Psychology. Volume 22. Issue 83.
Article 4:
Livingstone, S (2003) "Children's Use of the Internet: Reflections on the Emerging Research Agenda". New Media and Society.Volume 5:Issue 2.
Article 5:
Thurlow, C and McKay S (2003) "Profiling New Communications Technologies in Adolescence". Journal of Language and Social Psychology. Volume 22: Issue 94.
Article 1:
Livingstone, S and Helsper, E (2007) "Gradations in Digital Inclusion: Children, Young People and the Digital Divide". New Media and Society. Volume 9: Issue 4.
Article 2:
McMillian S and Morrison M (2006) "Coming of age, with the internet: A qualitive exploration of how the internet has become an integral part of young people's lives". New Media and Society. Volume 8: Issue 1.
Article 3:
Mastronardi M (2003) "Adolescence and Media". Journal of Language and Social Psychology. Volume 22. Issue 83.
Article 4:
Livingstone, S (2003) "Children's Use of the Internet: Reflections on the Emerging Research Agenda". New Media and Society.Volume 5:Issue 2.
Article 5:
Thurlow, C and McKay S (2003) "Profiling New Communications Technologies in Adolescence". Journal of Language and Social Psychology. Volume 22: Issue 94.
Websites Used
Week Eight-Topic Two
Website 1: http://www.blogscholar.com/content/view/72/33
Website 2: http://www.blogher.com/are-you-drowning-technology
Website 3: http://prchances.com/2008/09/22/more-reactions-to-social-media
Website 4: http://thinkdigitalfirst.blogspot.com/2008/12/first-not-only.html
Website 1: http://www.blogscholar.com/content/view/72/33
Website 2: http://www.blogher.com/are-you-drowning-technology
Website 3: http://prchances.com/2008/09/22/more-reactions-to-social-media
Website 4: http://thinkdigitalfirst.blogspot.com/2008/12/first-not-only.html
Article Three & Four
Week Eight-Topic Six
Article 3: This article only focuses slightly on the topic we are to discuss, which is "New" Media. I disagree with the statement that TV is the still the most dominant media form, I believe music, as well as the internet are just as dominant. However, the point the writers make of major adolescant identity formation being formed by the internet, I believe that all forms of media influence young people.
Article 4: A point in this article that I found could be debated is that because the field of New Media is young, the writer believes that there is not much discussion in the field. However, I believe about "New" Media is that everytime a newer form of media happens, there is the same excitment, confusion and so on (such as when TV was invented). Therefore the same theories and views can be applied to the "New Media" we are discussing.
Article 3: This article only focuses slightly on the topic we are to discuss, which is "New" Media. I disagree with the statement that TV is the still the most dominant media form, I believe music, as well as the internet are just as dominant. However, the point the writers make of major adolescant identity formation being formed by the internet, I believe that all forms of media influence young people.
Article 4: A point in this article that I found could be debated is that because the field of New Media is young, the writer believes that there is not much discussion in the field. However, I believe about "New" Media is that everytime a newer form of media happens, there is the same excitment, confusion and so on (such as when TV was invented). Therefore the same theories and views can be applied to the "New Media" we are discussing.
Article One & Two
Week Eight-Topic Six
Article 1:There is not alot I disagree with within this article, as there is a lot of evidence to back up the points being made. However, there are some points that the writers make that I thik could do with a little more exploring. Such as the writers seem to think that "digital exclusion" is the most damaging form of social exclusion, there is no evidence presented for this; I also believe that all forms of social exclusion in children is damaging. There are also some pretty sweeping statements made, such as the internet being unlike "simple" media.
Article 2: This article is based around the essays written by 72 college students, and therefore is primarily based on opinons. Like the article before, there are plenty of sweeping statements with little evidence other than what the people say. Such as individuals being peer pressured into using the internet and that learning to use the internet (etc) is father-dominated. There is also a lot of discussion into the virtual communities and relationships formed online, and how they reflect offline relationships-there is no evidence within the article to reflect this-it is just people's views. And some of the points such as, online relationships are not as real as offline one, I disagree with.
Article 1:There is not alot I disagree with within this article, as there is a lot of evidence to back up the points being made. However, there are some points that the writers make that I thik could do with a little more exploring. Such as the writers seem to think that "digital exclusion" is the most damaging form of social exclusion, there is no evidence presented for this; I also believe that all forms of social exclusion in children is damaging. There are also some pretty sweeping statements made, such as the internet being unlike "simple" media.
Article 2: This article is based around the essays written by 72 college students, and therefore is primarily based on opinons. Like the article before, there are plenty of sweeping statements with little evidence other than what the people say. Such as individuals being peer pressured into using the internet and that learning to use the internet (etc) is father-dominated. There is also a lot of discussion into the virtual communities and relationships formed online, and how they reflect offline relationships-there is no evidence within the article to reflect this-it is just people's views. And some of the points such as, online relationships are not as real as offline one, I disagree with.
Digital Immigration
Week Eight
Website 1: The first website is fairly up-to-date, however, is not that simple to understand. It seems to jmp from point to point. However, it does tell the reader who and when created the term "digital immigration". It does reference an article (from 2006) from a well-known Britishnewspaper which helps explain what Digital Immgration is.
Website 2: This website was written in the form of a blog on a website written for and by women. It is easy to read, but not that easy to understand. The woman writing describes herself as a "Digital Immigration Officer"; she helps people make the transition to digital mediums. It practices what it preaches, by having links to websites such as facebook, to almost "complete" the transition into the digital world.
Website 3: This is also a blog, simply explaining what Digital Immigration. Someone has commented it saying that digital immigraton is an experience that is "confusing, painful" and "tramuatic" and also that she is "sadder but wiser now". This is easy to understand, and even though it was written a few years ago, I believe that it is still relevant and useful.
Website 4: This is another blog, this time it is about seniors going online and the problems they have with Digital Immigration. It is relevant and useful to what we are learning about, it is written in simple language.
Website 1: The first website is fairly up-to-date, however, is not that simple to understand. It seems to jmp from point to point. However, it does tell the reader who and when created the term "digital immigration". It does reference an article (from 2006) from a well-known Britishnewspaper which helps explain what Digital Immgration is.
Website 2: This website was written in the form of a blog on a website written for and by women. It is easy to read, but not that easy to understand. The woman writing describes herself as a "Digital Immigration Officer"; she helps people make the transition to digital mediums. It practices what it preaches, by having links to websites such as facebook, to almost "complete" the transition into the digital world.
Website 3: This is also a blog, simply explaining what Digital Immigration. Someone has commented it saying that digital immigraton is an experience that is "confusing, painful" and "tramuatic" and also that she is "sadder but wiser now". This is easy to understand, and even though it was written a few years ago, I believe that it is still relevant and useful.
Website 4: This is another blog, this time it is about seniors going online and the problems they have with Digital Immigration. It is relevant and useful to what we are learning about, it is written in simple language.
Friday, 6 March 2009
Distance Learning: Our example
Week Seven
http://www.open.ac.uk: The Open University
This is the only fully-dedicated to online learning university in the United Kingdom. They around 150,000 undergraduate and more than 30,000 postgraduate students. Nearly all of the students are part-time, 70% of the students learn alongside full-time work. A positive of Open University is that 10,000 of the students have disabilities, learning online means that these students can learn from the comfort of their own home, without travel. Unlike other unversities, no previous qualificiations are needed, however, the student must be over sixteen years old. A third of the students have lower qualifications needed than needed to enter other universities, this gives a variety of students to better themselves. The students learn through a variety of mediums such as tv/radio/internet/printed materials.
Like alot of distance learning programmes, the OU started alot earlier than originally thought. The university started in the 60's, growing extensively in the 80s. There are debates as to whethr this type of learning can be described as a "real univerity", Iain Macleod MP called it "blithering nonesense" in the 60's. Now a days, the OU qualifications are recongnised by other univerisities, and more importantly, by employeers.
http://www.open.ac.uk: The Open University
This is the only fully-dedicated to online learning university in the United Kingdom. They around 150,000 undergraduate and more than 30,000 postgraduate students. Nearly all of the students are part-time, 70% of the students learn alongside full-time work. A positive of Open University is that 10,000 of the students have disabilities, learning online means that these students can learn from the comfort of their own home, without travel. Unlike other unversities, no previous qualificiations are needed, however, the student must be over sixteen years old. A third of the students have lower qualifications needed than needed to enter other universities, this gives a variety of students to better themselves. The students learn through a variety of mediums such as tv/radio/internet/printed materials.
Like alot of distance learning programmes, the OU started alot earlier than originally thought. The university started in the 60's, growing extensively in the 80s. There are debates as to whethr this type of learning can be described as a "real univerity", Iain Macleod MP called it "blithering nonesense" in the 60's. Now a days, the OU qualifications are recongnised by other univerisities, and more importantly, by employeers.
Distance Learning in China and Africa
Week Seven
Distance learning in Africa and China is very popular, for many reasons. One reason is the size of these countries, there is no travelling involved in this kind of learnin. Also, everyone can learn without any racial or gender discrimintion. This is very important in China, as university educatioon negatively discrimintes against them. It is also non-selective; anyone can learn. The learning an be fit in around jobs, and this is important for poorer families. The individuals can learn at their own pace.
In China, the article we were asked to look at discusses their use of TVU, which is television learning. And this way of learning is getting more and more popular. Whilst E-learning in Africa encourages techno-determinsim, and boasts connecting "80 countries" and the "wider globe". This E-learning uses lots of different mediums-such as the internet, books, television and radio.
Distance learning in Africa and China is very popular, for many reasons. One reason is the size of these countries, there is no travelling involved in this kind of learnin. Also, everyone can learn without any racial or gender discrimintion. This is very important in China, as university educatioon negatively discrimintes against them. It is also non-selective; anyone can learn. The learning an be fit in around jobs, and this is important for poorer families. The individuals can learn at their own pace.
In China, the article we were asked to look at discusses their use of TVU, which is television learning. And this way of learning is getting more and more popular. Whilst E-learning in Africa encourages techno-determinsim, and boasts connecting "80 countries" and the "wider globe". This E-learning uses lots of different mediums-such as the internet, books, television and radio.
Wednesday, 4 March 2009
Wenger 2
Week Six
"Joint enterprise" is the idea of a community working together to get better at something together. Originally, I thought this could only be related to forums and chatrooms such as self help groups, for people with mental health problems or abuse. Joint enterprise can apply to forums dealing with pregnancy, childbirth and so on. The people on these forums share tips, advice and experience to help themselves and others. The forum that I often reference, Mixmag.net/forum, has a forum dedicated to people learning to DJ, sharing mixing tips, ideas, song titles and everything to get better together. When people complete and post a mix online,and even get jobs DJing, the rest of the forum are supportive and proud; they work together to get better and improve at DJing. I believe this can be applied to any hobby, such as forums to do with fishing to writing etc.
"Joint enterprise" is the idea of a community working together to get better at something together. Originally, I thought this could only be related to forums and chatrooms such as self help groups, for people with mental health problems or abuse. Joint enterprise can apply to forums dealing with pregnancy, childbirth and so on. The people on these forums share tips, advice and experience to help themselves and others. The forum that I often reference, Mixmag.net/forum, has a forum dedicated to people learning to DJ, sharing mixing tips, ideas, song titles and everything to get better together. When people complete and post a mix online,and even get jobs DJing, the rest of the forum are supportive and proud; they work together to get better and improve at DJing. I believe this can be applied to any hobby, such as forums to do with fishing to writing etc.
Friday, 27 February 2009
Anaylsis of a Website
Week Six
http://www.mixmag.net/
This website is a a remediation, from the magazine version of the text into an online format, with alot more addition information.This website is highly advertised in Mixmag itself, primarily it podcast which is eve mentioned on the front cover of the magazine. There is even a full page advert in the magazine advertising how "much more" the website has to offer.
The steretypical viewer of this website, I think, is lovers of dance music and clubbing (which includes me). These people, are archetypically, not into websites that contain overactive forums and user input. I use this website to find out up and coming songs and DJs, find out about different mixs, check out photos from clubs I attended and view club listings for all around the world.
The website is fairly structured. On many websites, the hyperlinks and the non-linear nature make it easy to "get lost", but this is not the case on this website. The website is clearly and simply laid out and includes "Clu listings", "Clubbing photos", "Downloads", "Technical Advice" and so on. And with the slogan "The World's Biggest Dance Magazine", we immediately know that the audience is quite niche.
The content of this website is primarilly submitted by Nick Stevenson, who is one of the editors of the magazine. He also writes his own personal blog which is submitted online about hs recent clubbing experiences and thoughts on new songs. The editors and"Mixmag News Team" of the magazine seem to control the content, and minus the forum, there is little room for produsage. Writing the news on the main page is a privilage which is given out. They choose and control what is written about; how their magazine/website comes across and what news is considered important. The language of the news is very informative, yet light-hearted and sometimes comical. As mentioned, there is little room for produsage and dispersal, however, there is a feeling of produsage with the blogs and the nature of the news, even if the "ordinary" people can not post. I believe this is to appear more down to earth, to appeal to the steretypically, laidback clubbers. I think that if more user input, it would devalue to clearly carefully selected news that the editors post.
We trust the news that is presented to us, because it is writen by the editors, who we trust because they have successful run the magazine since 1982. We have learnt to trust these people, and as a reader, I trust the news as well, because of the sources they use, such as dj's official webpages and emails sent to them from official sources. This increases the quality of the information-and we trust it. Thus, raising the debate of what information we consider to be important and relevevant. Why do we consider information given to us by "official" sources more important than word-of-mouth? and why do we tend to distrust much of the information online, until it is given the "official" tag.
As mentioned in a previous post, the forum is for information. Most people hid their identities through different screenames, avators and so on are not used. This is because the forum is not designed to "make friends", it is designed to gain information and music. The other information is not needed. On the forum, people seek information and often there is no need for extensive converstion. To be considered a "jerk", would be quite hard. On other forums-arrogance/spam and over-posting are frowned upon by other posters. I believe that this forum is not popular enough for people of that nature to frequent. The lack of general conversation and discussion is taught by the "virtual settlement", posters know how to by the layout, previous content and topics in general.
The forum is designed to simply gain information, and minus competetions and quizzes, the rest of the website seems to be designed for this as well, as there are lots of headings and links back and forth to other websites and sources of information.
On this website, the only advertising are for the podcats and the Mixmag text service, as well as selected (by the website) DJs and clubnights (showing favourtism). This reinstates the intended audience of the websites-profit is made from the adverts as well as the many downloads avaliable.
There is an idea of community on this website. Even without much produseage. The idea that dance music-clubbing-fashion-djing at home, are so closely linked, and the website deigners obviously know this. There are many articles in the (surprisingly extensive) archieve on drugs, particually in night club surroundings and reclassification. This creates a sense of community as the writers (somewhat successfully) use the stereotype of drug usegae being connected to dance music. There is common ground and with direct, intelligent but colliqual language appears to invite anyone with these interests to read and enjoy the content of this website.
Personally, I really enoy this webiste, and I go on it every few days. The daily updates of news keeps me goin until the next months magaine, I also enjoy the many links and easy headings, as they make the information digestable and even more easy to read.
I think this is all abit mixed up (see what I did there...) but hopefully I gave the website justice.
http://www.mixmag.net/
This website is a a remediation, from the magazine version of the text into an online format, with alot more addition information.This website is highly advertised in Mixmag itself, primarily it podcast which is eve mentioned on the front cover of the magazine. There is even a full page advert in the magazine advertising how "much more" the website has to offer.
The steretypical viewer of this website, I think, is lovers of dance music and clubbing (which includes me). These people, are archetypically, not into websites that contain overactive forums and user input. I use this website to find out up and coming songs and DJs, find out about different mixs, check out photos from clubs I attended and view club listings for all around the world.
The website is fairly structured. On many websites, the hyperlinks and the non-linear nature make it easy to "get lost", but this is not the case on this website. The website is clearly and simply laid out and includes "Clu listings", "Clubbing photos", "Downloads", "Technical Advice" and so on. And with the slogan "The World's Biggest Dance Magazine", we immediately know that the audience is quite niche.
The content of this website is primarilly submitted by Nick Stevenson, who is one of the editors of the magazine. He also writes his own personal blog which is submitted online about hs recent clubbing experiences and thoughts on new songs. The editors and"Mixmag News Team" of the magazine seem to control the content, and minus the forum, there is little room for produsage. Writing the news on the main page is a privilage which is given out. They choose and control what is written about; how their magazine/website comes across and what news is considered important. The language of the news is very informative, yet light-hearted and sometimes comical. As mentioned, there is little room for produsage and dispersal, however, there is a feeling of produsage with the blogs and the nature of the news, even if the "ordinary" people can not post. I believe this is to appear more down to earth, to appeal to the steretypically, laidback clubbers. I think that if more user input, it would devalue to clearly carefully selected news that the editors post.
We trust the news that is presented to us, because it is writen by the editors, who we trust because they have successful run the magazine since 1982. We have learnt to trust these people, and as a reader, I trust the news as well, because of the sources they use, such as dj's official webpages and emails sent to them from official sources. This increases the quality of the information-and we trust it. Thus, raising the debate of what information we consider to be important and relevevant. Why do we consider information given to us by "official" sources more important than word-of-mouth? and why do we tend to distrust much of the information online, until it is given the "official" tag.
As mentioned in a previous post, the forum is for information. Most people hid their identities through different screenames, avators and so on are not used. This is because the forum is not designed to "make friends", it is designed to gain information and music. The other information is not needed. On the forum, people seek information and often there is no need for extensive converstion. To be considered a "jerk", would be quite hard. On other forums-arrogance/spam and over-posting are frowned upon by other posters. I believe that this forum is not popular enough for people of that nature to frequent. The lack of general conversation and discussion is taught by the "virtual settlement", posters know how to by the layout, previous content and topics in general.
The forum is designed to simply gain information, and minus competetions and quizzes, the rest of the website seems to be designed for this as well, as there are lots of headings and links back and forth to other websites and sources of information.
On this website, the only advertising are for the podcats and the Mixmag text service, as well as selected (by the website) DJs and clubnights (showing favourtism). This reinstates the intended audience of the websites-profit is made from the adverts as well as the many downloads avaliable.
There is an idea of community on this website. Even without much produseage. The idea that dance music-clubbing-fashion-djing at home, are so closely linked, and the website deigners obviously know this. There are many articles in the (surprisingly extensive) archieve on drugs, particually in night club surroundings and reclassification. This creates a sense of community as the writers (somewhat successfully) use the stereotype of drug usegae being connected to dance music. There is common ground and with direct, intelligent but colliqual language appears to invite anyone with these interests to read and enjoy the content of this website.
Personally, I really enoy this webiste, and I go on it every few days. The daily updates of news keeps me goin until the next months magaine, I also enjoy the many links and easy headings, as they make the information digestable and even more easy to read.
I think this is all abit mixed up (see what I did there...) but hopefully I gave the website justice.
:)
Thursday, 26 February 2009
Wenger 1
Week Six.
I belong to a variety of CofP. The one that fits into Wenger's model, the best is my job at Willow Valley Golf Club. I only worked at the club for about 4 months in the summer, but it contained all the aspects of Wenger's model of CofP. I worked generally in the golf shop-interacting with members and customers, in person or on the phone. As well as working closely with professional golfers, bar&kitchen staff, groundsmen, managers and the owners of the club themselves. This qualified as a CofP because all the workers at the club worked towards one aim-to keep the existing members of the club happy, safe and golfing as well as trying to gain new members and running competetions such as the Yorkshire PGA.
Wenger believes that these CofP, need a "domain", an identity that is different to others. As a golf club, we were a team-supporting our members in competetions and so on. The Willow Valley uniform of golf t-shirts with the logo created this identity. The sense of community is achieved via the relationships built from conversations and experiences. Daily, different things happened in the club (sometimes very scandelous!) that brought us all together. There was also a death of a member whilst I worked there, this shared experience brought both members and staff together in a community. There was a mutaul understanding between employees about the aim of the club. Also there was a understanding and shared knowledge between us and the members that there are certain rules (such as dress code, no mobile phones in the clubhouse etc) that eed to be understood an stuck too, these help build the sense of community and identity.
I belong to a variety of CofP. The one that fits into Wenger's model, the best is my job at Willow Valley Golf Club. I only worked at the club for about 4 months in the summer, but it contained all the aspects of Wenger's model of CofP. I worked generally in the golf shop-interacting with members and customers, in person or on the phone. As well as working closely with professional golfers, bar&kitchen staff, groundsmen, managers and the owners of the club themselves. This qualified as a CofP because all the workers at the club worked towards one aim-to keep the existing members of the club happy, safe and golfing as well as trying to gain new members and running competetions such as the Yorkshire PGA.
Wenger believes that these CofP, need a "domain", an identity that is different to others. As a golf club, we were a team-supporting our members in competetions and so on. The Willow Valley uniform of golf t-shirts with the logo created this identity. The sense of community is achieved via the relationships built from conversations and experiences. Daily, different things happened in the club (sometimes very scandelous!) that brought us all together. There was also a death of a member whilst I worked there, this shared experience brought both members and staff together in a community. There was a mutaul understanding between employees about the aim of the club. Also there was a understanding and shared knowledge between us and the members that there are certain rules (such as dress code, no mobile phones in the clubhouse etc) that eed to be understood an stuck too, these help build the sense of community and identity.
Friday, 20 February 2009
Bruns
Week Five. Topic One.
I think produsage (the act of being a "produser"-producer and user) will last for a while, and the in the future it will only increase. I believe more people will act as "produsers", as it becomes a more quick and easy way to do many things (create music/films etc). Capitalism will take advantage of this phase though, and I do believe it is a phase. I think people will eventaully get bored of this trend, as more interesting and new things become avaliable to pass the time. It is a fairly new trend, so people (including my friends) are constantly posting videos on YouTube or creating blogs, but I do think this will slow down. As mentioned, I think that big buisnesses will effect this culture. I think that eventually we will have to pay to post or watch videos on YouTube (for example), or an idea from Kay's blog, using a "point" system, this would work by one having to post or contribute to be able to watch videos or gain information.
I think using my "crystal ball"...that the trend will slow down eventually (not in the near future) due to flagging interest and new/better things will become more and more important as we live in a very fickle and consumer driven culture.
I think produsage (the act of being a "produser"-producer and user) will last for a while, and the in the future it will only increase. I believe more people will act as "produsers", as it becomes a more quick and easy way to do many things (create music/films etc). Capitalism will take advantage of this phase though, and I do believe it is a phase. I think people will eventaully get bored of this trend, as more interesting and new things become avaliable to pass the time. It is a fairly new trend, so people (including my friends) are constantly posting videos on YouTube or creating blogs, but I do think this will slow down. As mentioned, I think that big buisnesses will effect this culture. I think that eventually we will have to pay to post or watch videos on YouTube (for example), or an idea from Kay's blog, using a "point" system, this would work by one having to post or contribute to be able to watch videos or gain information.
I think using my "crystal ball"...that the trend will slow down eventually (not in the near future) due to flagging interest and new/better things will become more and more important as we live in a very fickle and consumer driven culture.
Meikle D&E.
Week Five. Topic One.
"Open news" can be quality news. I think this applies to all the web. I think it can be quality because of the "produser" culture on the web- anyone can post and be a researcher and use a massive and varied around of sources and influences. However, we dont know who is posting this information. This is not completley "open", websistes such as IndyMedia are still monitered and edited, even if its just for spelling mistakes. One asks-why does news have to "professional", what is really wrong with reading the news in "text speak"? So this "open" news is edited for no apparent reason than to make it generic to what we expect of news, if it was any different-then it would be a shock to read, which reflects as us on individuals and society, as we wish to be "open-minded" and "original" on the internet, in terms of what we post and read-and yet it appears that we want things like the news to be conventional. These "open" news websites are also controlled by moderaters etc and people act in a democratic way-such as the examples given in this text.
"Open news" can be quality news. I think this applies to all the web. I think it can be quality because of the "produser" culture on the web- anyone can post and be a researcher and use a massive and varied around of sources and influences. However, we dont know who is posting this information. This is not completley "open", websistes such as IndyMedia are still monitered and edited, even if its just for spelling mistakes. One asks-why does news have to "professional", what is really wrong with reading the news in "text speak"? So this "open" news is edited for no apparent reason than to make it generic to what we expect of news, if it was any different-then it would be a shock to read, which reflects as us on individuals and society, as we wish to be "open-minded" and "original" on the internet, in terms of what we post and read-and yet it appears that we want things like the news to be conventional. These "open" news websites are also controlled by moderaters etc and people act in a democratic way-such as the examples given in this text.
Meikle A&B
Week Five. Topic One.
I believe that a large part of the web is just "hear'say", and this is no different when it comes to the news. We do not know who is publishing the news, it could be anyone and these people are using a broad range of sources, from the reliable to the not so. I personally look at the BBC News online, as well as the online version of The Sun and even PerezHilton.com for celebrity news. "News" on the web, I believe can be anything, because no one moderates who posts the news or what is said. We choose to believe what we want. I take most of the news with a pinch of salt.
We flick through and find our own informaiton and news, learning from a mixture of text, audio and video, as well as archives which many online news sites have. We choose what we learn and how we learn it. We can publish out own news and information, we "copy&paste" from other sources-other websites, newspapers and the news we hear on the tv and radio, meaning we are the "researchers" of the news ourselves, meaning there are "new kinds of journalists" online.
I believe that a large part of the web is just "hear'say", and this is no different when it comes to the news. We do not know who is publishing the news, it could be anyone and these people are using a broad range of sources, from the reliable to the not so. I personally look at the BBC News online, as well as the online version of The Sun and even PerezHilton.com for celebrity news. "News" on the web, I believe can be anything, because no one moderates who posts the news or what is said. We choose to believe what we want. I take most of the news with a pinch of salt.
We flick through and find our own informaiton and news, learning from a mixture of text, audio and video, as well as archives which many online news sites have. We choose what we learn and how we learn it. We can publish out own news and information, we "copy&paste" from other sources-other websites, newspapers and the news we hear on the tv and radio, meaning we are the "researchers" of the news ourselves, meaning there are "new kinds of journalists" online.
Friday, 13 February 2009
Music and The Internet
Week Four. Topic Three.
Filesharing, online downloading and so on obviously changes the way music is consumed. Dispersal of music to many is very easy and can be done very cheapily (free-if illegal). Any band can "make it" through these sites a mainly its to do with word-of-mouth, I think if someone says "download X-they are cool", others will. Because its quick, free and easy-many people will do it because it takes little time and effort (and often-no cost) and therefore, people are more inclide to download and either like or dislike. Social networking sites, like MySpace make it easy to tell people from all ovthe word quickly and easily about new songs and bands-spreading the word globally and quickly.
This has changed the music industry because no record deal is needed to post music-anyone can be famous and becming popular, often gaining "real life" record deals and success due to their onlne fame (Lily Allen, Artic Monkeys etc.). As people are illegally downlading music, it means that no one gets any money from the song-artists, producers, no one. Elton John even went as far as saying that the internet should be "shut down", to stop the internet "destroying music" (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/article251007.ece-2007).
I believe we will not need meda companies in the future as people can do the recording, editing, producing and even deistributing their music, films (and anything they wish) from their own bedrooms easily, and often cheaply (if software is downloaded for free as well). It is hard to consider what the music industry will be like in a few years if this continues, it askes the main question-in a few years, if its so quick, cheap and easy to post music online-will everybody have atleast one song that at least one other has downloaded? and how will this effect the future of music?
Filesharing, online downloading and so on obviously changes the way music is consumed. Dispersal of music to many is very easy and can be done very cheapily (free-if illegal). Any band can "make it" through these sites a mainly its to do with word-of-mouth, I think if someone says "download X-they are cool", others will. Because its quick, free and easy-many people will do it because it takes little time and effort (and often-no cost) and therefore, people are more inclide to download and either like or dislike. Social networking sites, like MySpace make it easy to tell people from all ovthe word quickly and easily about new songs and bands-spreading the word globally and quickly.
This has changed the music industry because no record deal is needed to post music-anyone can be famous and becming popular, often gaining "real life" record deals and success due to their onlne fame (Lily Allen, Artic Monkeys etc.). As people are illegally downlading music, it means that no one gets any money from the song-artists, producers, no one. Elton John even went as far as saying that the internet should be "shut down", to stop the internet "destroying music" (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/article251007.ece-2007).
I believe we will not need meda companies in the future as people can do the recording, editing, producing and even deistributing their music, films (and anything they wish) from their own bedrooms easily, and often cheaply (if software is downloaded for free as well). It is hard to consider what the music industry will be like in a few years if this continues, it askes the main question-in a few years, if its so quick, cheap and easy to post music online-will everybody have atleast one song that at least one other has downloaded? and how will this effect the future of music?
Week Four-Topic One-Blanchard.
D: "Lurkers" are not important to online communities, but I do not think they should be removed. I think that some people might not necassarily have uch ton say, or ma simply enjoy learning from others. In life, there are people that jut observe and leanr from others,and this is the same as online. I do no understand why people are bothered by "lurkers", especially as I woud descirbe myself as a "lurker", especially on mixmag.net/forum and perezhilton.com. I do not contribute because on popular topics, people have already said what I think, or I simply think I do not often know enough on a topic to comment, this is possibly the casewith other "lurkers".
F:"Commnity is in the eye of the user(s)" is a theory I believe is true. Especailly in using Blanchard's text as a resorce. One peron can visit a forum (for example) and recieve a lifechanging sense of community by interacting with people with similar interests and experiencing some sort of "order" from the moderatersand so on.Even making friends that become real life friends (meeting IRL etc.) However, another individual could simply "lurk" or even post something and just feel that they are slightly contibuting but not recieve that feeling of "community". One questions that someone's level and investment in an online community is upto them as individuals; they can get fully into a fourm or just be occasional vistitors. I believe that things/events and people's personalities in the real world effect their involvement.
F:"Commnity is in the eye of the user(s)" is a theory I believe is true. Especailly in using Blanchard's text as a resorce. One peron can visit a forum (for example) and recieve a lifechanging sense of community by interacting with people with similar interests and experiencing some sort of "order" from the moderatersand so on.Even making friends that become real life friends (meeting IRL etc.) However, another individual could simply "lurk" or even post something and just feel that they are slightly contibuting but not recieve that feeling of "community". One questions that someone's level and investment in an online community is upto them as individuals; they can get fully into a fourm or just be occasional vistitors. I believe that things/events and people's personalities in the real world effect their involvement.
Week Four-Topic One-Blanchard.
A: The term "community" is over-used according to Harris (taken from Blanchard's text). believe there is many important characterstics to describe a blog or forum (and so on) as a "community", these are a variety of things. This includes a feeling of membership and beloning. I think that people on these forums etc, often have thigns in common and tehrefore feel like a collective. This is especially binding if the subject is quite nice and people in the "real" world do not njoy or understand, so the online "community" is their only outlet. This is emphasised with Mcmillian and Chavis view that communitis are achieved by a "fulfilment of needs", which can often be achieved by this sense of similairity in interests etc. In n onlnie "community" a sense of shared emotion is neede.A shared sense of history and "community spirit" is also needed, the indvdiuals need to work together as a group. to erase problems and form matual bonds and respect.
B: "Virtual settlement"is a sueful concept ecause it helps us understand the virtual communities. The "settlement" of online comntities are aspects such as its posting, structure and content. This is useful in understanding why the posters and membrs f the community are the way they are-how and why they post and so on.
B: "Virtual settlement"is a sueful concept ecause it helps us understand the virtual communities. The "settlement" of online comntities are aspects such as its posting, structure and content. This is useful in understanding why the posters and membrs f the community are the way they are-how and why they post and so on.
Monday, 9 February 2009
Brief Anaylsis of a Web-Forum
Week Three
http://www.mixmag.net/forum
The kind of people seem laidback and everyone is interested in some kind of dance music or clubbing. The people talk colliqually and friendly to eachother and often trying to help others with enquires about songs/mixes/clubnights and so on. People present themselves as knowing alot about music and peopleoften talk about the large amounts of cluubs in a variety of locations that they have attended. The peole tend to talk well, and in full sentences an "text speak" is not very common. It is hard to tell who is male and female as most people are hidden behind screenames. Everyone on this forum uses the same font (without signing up to the websites-one does not know if its even an option to change fonts) and hardly any have avators. I believe this lack of originlity is due to the topic of the forum, as the stereotype of "clubbers" is slightly cool, or too laidback to care about things such as avators. They are simply there to find out the information they want. There doesnt seem to be many "friendships" formed on the forum, the people just seem to be asking their question/posting their link (etc) and/or replying, there doesnt seem to be any kind of "banter".
The forum is laid out into sections such as "clubnights", "remixes" and on, this is to encourage people to discuss a variety of issues and makes it very easy to navigate around easily. This is fairly typical of a forum.
I think this forum works well for the topic it as well as sticking closely to the conventions of other forums.
http://www.mixmag.net/forum
The kind of people seem laidback and everyone is interested in some kind of dance music or clubbing. The people talk colliqually and friendly to eachother and often trying to help others with enquires about songs/mixes/clubnights and so on. People present themselves as knowing alot about music and peopleoften talk about the large amounts of cluubs in a variety of locations that they have attended. The peole tend to talk well, and in full sentences an "text speak" is not very common. It is hard to tell who is male and female as most people are hidden behind screenames. Everyone on this forum uses the same font (without signing up to the websites-one does not know if its even an option to change fonts) and hardly any have avators. I believe this lack of originlity is due to the topic of the forum, as the stereotype of "clubbers" is slightly cool, or too laidback to care about things such as avators. They are simply there to find out the information they want. There doesnt seem to be many "friendships" formed on the forum, the people just seem to be asking their question/posting their link (etc) and/or replying, there doesnt seem to be any kind of "banter".
The forum is laid out into sections such as "clubnights", "remixes" and on, this is to encourage people to discuss a variety of issues and makes it very easy to navigate around easily. This is fairly typical of a forum.
I think this forum works well for the topic it as well as sticking closely to the conventions of other forums.
Thursday, 5 February 2009
Online Relationships etc.
Week Three. Topic One.
Cyberidenities without even thinking about it in any great detail can not constitute to a "normal social reality", as communities, opinons and so on-are based on so much more than text (or pictures) on a screen.Lister et al believe that these identies are simply an extension of out society, and not a seperate one. I believe they fed into eachother. Emotions one may feel online will effect "real" life and vice versa. And this is the same as online relationships.
People can not switch of feelings and emotions between their online and offline selves if they take both seriously. There is evidence to suggest that online relationships do work in the real world, when the people finally (if ever) meet. Meeting people online is not something I would personally do, as I never have had any need to use that method of meeting a mate. I do think it could work for some people though.
People act as "nomads" online, wondering through various networks, forums and so on-meeting people from all over the world-so in some ways, one may see this a better than normal relationships as there is people from all over the world, with various interests just there for someone to meet. However, I believe some feelings can only be developed through face-to-face communication. So I think that the meeting of people online is an interesting and novel and in some ways practical way of meeting a partner or friends, but this should be contiuned in real life.
Cyberidenities without even thinking about it in any great detail can not constitute to a "normal social reality", as communities, opinons and so on-are based on so much more than text (or pictures) on a screen.Lister et al believe that these identies are simply an extension of out society, and not a seperate one. I believe they fed into eachother. Emotions one may feel online will effect "real" life and vice versa. And this is the same as online relationships.
People can not switch of feelings and emotions between their online and offline selves if they take both seriously. There is evidence to suggest that online relationships do work in the real world, when the people finally (if ever) meet. Meeting people online is not something I would personally do, as I never have had any need to use that method of meeting a mate. I do think it could work for some people though.
People act as "nomads" online, wondering through various networks, forums and so on-meeting people from all over the world-so in some ways, one may see this a better than normal relationships as there is people from all over the world, with various interests just there for someone to meet. However, I believe some feelings can only be developed through face-to-face communication. So I think that the meeting of people online is an interesting and novel and in some ways practical way of meeting a partner or friends, but this should be contiuned in real life.
Wednesday, 4 February 2009
Online Personas
Week Three. Topic One.
Assuming on online persona is something I do not know alot about, mainly because I do not have alot of contact with forums and chatrooms and so on. When I was younger, I sometimes used forums and message boards, but I never thought of changing my persona, I think this was possibly to do with my age, and the internet being fairly new. One can change their identity from changing their age, to their job, to even if they are male or female. I think ones dentity being completley hidden could encourage people to change things, one can even be more open about their real selves (I believe usually in the case of sexaulity).
Bolter and Grusin (Lister et al:2007)believe that chatrooms and so on do nothing but serve the "cultural remedation of the self". Turkles (Wired 4:01. Who Am We?1996) agrees with this, writing that computers not only change our real life (ie.helping with school work), but are changing us as people, either by us changing outselves online, or changing our selves by what we experience online.
The choice of a picture (or avator) to represent us online means that we can choose anything from a picture of us to a picture of a cat, we have the choice to hide. Most forums and even social networking sites promote the use of nicknames for screen-names, these can persuade people to change or hide their real life selves. For example, I, Ellie McCullough, can be "washingmachine64" or even "Mike Smith".
Online personas can have some good points though, as one does not judge others on appearance or race or gender if its not disclosed. One is judged on their peronality (assuming thats not made up as well). Stone (Lister et al:2007) sums this topic up well by stating that the "physical facicity of human bodies is changing", we are now becoming anything and anyone we desire online, something that is not yet possible in the real world.
Assuming on online persona is something I do not know alot about, mainly because I do not have alot of contact with forums and chatrooms and so on. When I was younger, I sometimes used forums and message boards, but I never thought of changing my persona, I think this was possibly to do with my age, and the internet being fairly new. One can change their identity from changing their age, to their job, to even if they are male or female. I think ones dentity being completley hidden could encourage people to change things, one can even be more open about their real selves (I believe usually in the case of sexaulity).
Bolter and Grusin (Lister et al:2007)believe that chatrooms and so on do nothing but serve the "cultural remedation of the self". Turkles (Wired 4:01. Who Am We?1996) agrees with this, writing that computers not only change our real life (ie.helping with school work), but are changing us as people, either by us changing outselves online, or changing our selves by what we experience online.
The choice of a picture (or avator) to represent us online means that we can choose anything from a picture of us to a picture of a cat, we have the choice to hide. Most forums and even social networking sites promote the use of nicknames for screen-names, these can persuade people to change or hide their real life selves. For example, I, Ellie McCullough, can be "washingmachine64" or even "Mike Smith".
Online personas can have some good points though, as one does not judge others on appearance or race or gender if its not disclosed. One is judged on their peronality (assuming thats not made up as well). Stone (Lister et al:2007) sums this topic up well by stating that the "physical facicity of human bodies is changing", we are now becoming anything and anyone we desire online, something that is not yet possible in the real world.
"Open-Architecture"
Week Three. Topic One.
The internet can be described as "open-architecture" for one main reason. The "open-architecture" concept ws thought up by Licklider in 1962, and is primarily to do with the flow of information. The theory of "open-archietecture" is that data flows freely from everywhere in the world-there and back. Previous "old media" simply send messages one way: from the insitution through the tv or radio (and so on) to the audience. The internet provides more of a circulation of data-we provide data, send messages and so on, and the internet provides us with what we need back.
The internet can be described as "open-architecture" for one main reason. The "open-architecture" concept ws thought up by Licklider in 1962, and is primarily to do with the flow of information. The theory of "open-archietecture" is that data flows freely from everywhere in the world-there and back. Previous "old media" simply send messages one way: from the insitution through the tv or radio (and so on) to the audience. The internet provides more of a circulation of data-we provide data, send messages and so on, and the internet provides us with what we need back.
Friday, 30 January 2009
Anaylsis of Forum and Our Blog.
Week Two. Topic Two.
Navigation
It is not an online conversation because people write large paragraphs to possibly a long reply. Rather than short sentences. We click on things that may interest or involve us as individuals.
Expression
People take turns in talking. We express ourselves in certain ways because we know people are reading (possibly trying to impress) and because we know we are in an academic environment. We can express ourselves more freely than in lectures, because we are hid behind the screen.
Interaction
It is different from face-to-face seminars because it is up to the individual to get involved and do the reading and research in their own time.
Time
It takes longer in time than more traditional forms of learning as there is a variety of tasks, with different amounts of effort needed to be put in on each one.
Authority and Identity
Tutors are still in charge. We still onlyhave the identity of a student, we can not say what we really think. With the blogs, we have moe control, but we are still aware of others reading our work.
Speech/Writing
We write acdemically, but more laidback than usual. We can not talk how we would like (ie. text speak).
Media "literacy"
I would say that I had limited knowledge to do with forums and blogs, as I had little, to no contact with them before this unit. I did know how they worked, but had not alot of interest in them proir to this.
Navigation
It is not an online conversation because people write large paragraphs to possibly a long reply. Rather than short sentences. We click on things that may interest or involve us as individuals.
Expression
People take turns in talking. We express ourselves in certain ways because we know people are reading (possibly trying to impress) and because we know we are in an academic environment. We can express ourselves more freely than in lectures, because we are hid behind the screen.
Interaction
It is different from face-to-face seminars because it is up to the individual to get involved and do the reading and research in their own time.
Time
It takes longer in time than more traditional forms of learning as there is a variety of tasks, with different amounts of effort needed to be put in on each one.
Authority and Identity
Tutors are still in charge. We still onlyhave the identity of a student, we can not say what we really think. With the blogs, we have moe control, but we are still aware of others reading our work.
Speech/Writing
We write acdemically, but more laidback than usual. We can not talk how we would like (ie. text speak).
Media "literacy"
I would say that I had limited knowledge to do with forums and blogs, as I had little, to no contact with them before this unit. I did know how they worked, but had not alot of interest in them proir to this.
Week Two.Topic One.
H: The "new voices" that are appearing via the internet and other forms of interactivity, are saying everything. People are sharing thoughts and feelings (through blogs and video blogs). People are doing things online like miming along to songs, as well as things such as bank details, photographs and school work. All stuff that people would not even think about sharing with the public, but because of the internet, people are willing to share everything. I am very careful about what I put online, I will not even disclose my full date of birth online, yet people are transfering money along with deep personal things such as their problems on blogs for the world to see and judge them.
Week Two.Topic One.
E: I can not even imagine not writing up my assignments on the computer. Even GCSE coursework was typed up on a computer. Hand-writing is very time-consuming, as wel as difficult to edit and it is unable to delete things neatly. Typed up assignments look a lot neater. This assignment is interesting because we can look at others works, as well as commenting on others work, and recieve tutor feedback quckly. Which is one of the joys of the "new" media, to "manpulate and distrubute easily".
F:"Immersive interactivity" is, Lunenfeld believes that this is the opposite to "extractive" interactivity. It is similar to hypertextual but with aditional qualities. Examples of this, are online gaming, where the user is in a 3d world, often using virtual reality technology,where people ca explore and navigate screen spaces.
F:"Immersive interactivity" is, Lunenfeld believes that this is the opposite to "extractive" interactivity. It is similar to hypertextual but with aditional qualities. Examples of this, are online gaming, where the user is in a 3d world, often using virtual reality technology,where people ca explore and navigate screen spaces.
Week Two.Topic One.
A: The "upgrade culture" that we now live in is, I believe, purely based on "hype". Everyone wants to "beat the Jones", to have the newest and best upgrade in anything, but most importantly, when it comes to computers. These changes, such as from Windows XP to Windows Vista, are simply changes thought up by buisnesses to get people talking, wanting (even needing) the new products. Thus resulting in more money being spent, on often useless upgrades, with little or no difference, except a newer name and possibly different colours. This is shown with iPods, every year, Apple bring out a new iPod, whether it holds more songs, or is simply thinner or in a bright colour. I personally know people that buy the new iPod, or the new Playstation, just because the adverts and other people tell them, that it is "cool" or even important to spend this money.
B: The "newness" of New Media is costantly stressed, primarilly by other media sources-such as adverts. The technology of these new products is often new, but sometimes, as mentioned-it is simply repackaged. These new products of the "new" media do not change society, they do not "abolish history", as history and the "new" are always linked. These products, as usual, are simply aiming to gain more money. These products and ideas simply slot into place, our need to haev these things do not change, we still live in a ver capitalist society were everyone is taught to want and need to new and best products.
C: This question asks the question, does "new" equal better and whether the "new" media is really progress. There are always hopes attached to the "new". Enthusism for the latest thing always has ideological repocutions, as we believe we are better because we have these things, in many different circles. Whether it is bragging to your friends, or a new school installing a newest and they believe "best" computer system.
B: The "newness" of New Media is costantly stressed, primarilly by other media sources-such as adverts. The technology of these new products is often new, but sometimes, as mentioned-it is simply repackaged. These new products of the "new" media do not change society, they do not "abolish history", as history and the "new" are always linked. These products, as usual, are simply aiming to gain more money. These products and ideas simply slot into place, our need to haev these things do not change, we still live in a ver capitalist society were everyone is taught to want and need to new and best products.
C: This question asks the question, does "new" equal better and whether the "new" media is really progress. There are always hopes attached to the "new". Enthusism for the latest thing always has ideological repocutions, as we believe we are better because we have these things, in many different circles. Whether it is bragging to your friends, or a new school installing a newest and they believe "best" computer system.
Thursday, 29 January 2009
Hyperlinks and the effect on real life.
Week Two
I had many thoughts about this weeks lecture, but this blog is about the main discussion point that I thought was the most interesting was the idea of audiences now being users or "produsers". This is because we can now control what we read and consquently what we learn. It is almost like those novels one used to read as a child, where one could "choose the story", where one was encouraged to "turn to page 80 to enter the cave" and so on.
Using online hyperlinks, we move quickly from text to sound to video to pictures on a variety of different websites. We gain information quickly from a variety of sources in a variety of different ways, and this can be a little or a lot-very relevant or very not. This is one of the advantages of "new" or "digital" media. We are actively encouraged to "seek more". Another example is the "red button" icon on digital television. It is always in the corner of the screen offering us new and more information.
One questions that this thirst for knowledge in different and new forms extends into real life. We cant just press on a word in a novel that we dont understand and gain a meaning or talk to others or the author directly about the text, while onlnie one can do this, as well as gaining so much more information than originally wanting through search engines and links, I believe that we now expect so much more than just words on a page, or a television programme with no interactivity.
I had many thoughts about this weeks lecture, but this blog is about the main discussion point that I thought was the most interesting was the idea of audiences now being users or "produsers". This is because we can now control what we read and consquently what we learn. It is almost like those novels one used to read as a child, where one could "choose the story", where one was encouraged to "turn to page 80 to enter the cave" and so on.
Using online hyperlinks, we move quickly from text to sound to video to pictures on a variety of different websites. We gain information quickly from a variety of sources in a variety of different ways, and this can be a little or a lot-very relevant or very not. This is one of the advantages of "new" or "digital" media. We are actively encouraged to "seek more". Another example is the "red button" icon on digital television. It is always in the corner of the screen offering us new and more information.
One questions that this thirst for knowledge in different and new forms extends into real life. We cant just press on a word in a novel that we dont understand and gain a meaning or talk to others or the author directly about the text, while onlnie one can do this, as well as gaining so much more information than originally wanting through search engines and links, I believe that we now expect so much more than just words on a page, or a television programme with no interactivity.
Sunday, 25 January 2009
How I use "New" Media...
Week One
The "new" media to me is not considered "new" at all, as most of us have grown up surrounded around computers, espcially in a learning enviroment.
Email is something which as "interactive mail" has pretty much over taken over traditional mail or "snail mail". I don't check my email as regularly as some people, only about once a day. Before Facebook or MySpace, I used to use it far more. I use it purely to keep in touch with my parents, and is especially useful as my father is usually working abroad. Email is used daily in the university enviroment, I usually use it to query tutors and for them to pass on information. I recieve some emails from mailing lists, mainly from clubs and bars that I frequent. These are generic emails sending information to everyone on their list, usually on upcoming events.
Social networking is certianly taking over from traditional forms of emailing and keeping in touch. I used to use MySpace obsessively, until Facebook took over in the last year or so. I don't even know why I use these sites, usually I dont do anything but look at other people's profiles or update mine. It is useful to get in touch with people from years gone by, that I just lost touch with. Email has some negatives. Spam emails are what usually clog my inbox, and they couldnt be anymore useless.
Chatrooms are something I barely use. I dont go online and talk to people I dont know. Instant messenger servives, such as MSN are nearly always on when I'm at home, even if Im not always talking on them. There are about 5 or 6 people I talk to online everyday using this method, it is also very useful (and cheap) if one is in a long distance relationship, as calling every night starts to cost alot. I see why people use chatrooms, if they are lonely or like something that targets a niche audience, something that they cant talk to their friends about, I think chatrooms are useful for that sort of thing.
I use the internet to download music, and to find out about new songs and artists. I also use the internet to find out when and where my favourite events and DJs are playing. I do not shop online as much as I used to, I used to use eBay alot, but that is becoming less regular.
The Multi-User Dungeon games that are online simply do not interest me, although I know some people that enjoy online role-play games. I do not really use the internet for anything other than MSN, Facebook, university work , downloading music and finding out information, which some may say is not using it to its full potential.
The "new" media to me is not considered "new" at all, as most of us have grown up surrounded around computers, espcially in a learning enviroment.
Email is something which as "interactive mail" has pretty much over taken over traditional mail or "snail mail". I don't check my email as regularly as some people, only about once a day. Before Facebook or MySpace, I used to use it far more. I use it purely to keep in touch with my parents, and is especially useful as my father is usually working abroad. Email is used daily in the university enviroment, I usually use it to query tutors and for them to pass on information. I recieve some emails from mailing lists, mainly from clubs and bars that I frequent. These are generic emails sending information to everyone on their list, usually on upcoming events.
Social networking is certianly taking over from traditional forms of emailing and keeping in touch. I used to use MySpace obsessively, until Facebook took over in the last year or so. I don't even know why I use these sites, usually I dont do anything but look at other people's profiles or update mine. It is useful to get in touch with people from years gone by, that I just lost touch with. Email has some negatives. Spam emails are what usually clog my inbox, and they couldnt be anymore useless.
Chatrooms are something I barely use. I dont go online and talk to people I dont know. Instant messenger servives, such as MSN are nearly always on when I'm at home, even if Im not always talking on them. There are about 5 or 6 people I talk to online everyday using this method, it is also very useful (and cheap) if one is in a long distance relationship, as calling every night starts to cost alot. I see why people use chatrooms, if they are lonely or like something that targets a niche audience, something that they cant talk to their friends about, I think chatrooms are useful for that sort of thing.
I use the internet to download music, and to find out about new songs and artists. I also use the internet to find out when and where my favourite events and DJs are playing. I do not shop online as much as I used to, I used to use eBay alot, but that is becoming less regular.
The Multi-User Dungeon games that are online simply do not interest me, although I know some people that enjoy online role-play games. I do not really use the internet for anything other than MSN, Facebook, university work , downloading music and finding out information, which some may say is not using it to its full potential.
Friday, 23 January 2009
Radio as the eight great power. Overthrown by more "new" media.
Week One.
Goebbel's speech on the radio is nothing short of interesting. Spoken in 1933, one considers that in 2033, will students of this very unit consider us ranting about the greatness of computers or ipods as drastically naive and out of date.
Goebell talks about radio as life-changing, for the indivdual, society and politics, and he continues to use the words "future" and "modern". This, to a nineteen year old in 2009, as bizarre. We see the radio as something that a car has if its old, or to maybe listen to while eating sunday dinner (the only time in my household that the television is not on).
A point I found really interesting was Goebbel talking about the radio being a distraction fom problems in society. I believe this is still true today, except that the form of distracting entertinment is now television, computers, mp3 players and so on. Goebell believes that the press was the "old" media and radio as the "new", however, the digital media of today (computers, mp3s, digital tv) is the "new" media of the 21st century. Who knows what the future may hold in store for "new" media.
Goebbel's speech on the radio is nothing short of interesting. Spoken in 1933, one considers that in 2033, will students of this very unit consider us ranting about the greatness of computers or ipods as drastically naive and out of date.
Goebell talks about radio as life-changing, for the indivdual, society and politics, and he continues to use the words "future" and "modern". This, to a nineteen year old in 2009, as bizarre. We see the radio as something that a car has if its old, or to maybe listen to while eating sunday dinner (the only time in my household that the television is not on).
A point I found really interesting was Goebbel talking about the radio being a distraction fom problems in society. I believe this is still true today, except that the form of distracting entertinment is now television, computers, mp3 players and so on. Goebell believes that the press was the "old" media and radio as the "new", however, the digital media of today (computers, mp3s, digital tv) is the "new" media of the 21st century. Who knows what the future may hold in store for "new" media.
Thursday, 22 January 2009
Do you remember your first time...?
I really don't have anything to write in this first posting.
The title of this first blog reminds me of this amazing song by Mark Knight, a DJ in which I presume no-one has ever heard of. But I continue with something slightly more academic (however, what is considered "academic" is another discussion entirely...)
New Media is the main topic of this blog, as a second year student at Lincoln University this is a really interesting way of learning...we will see how well it works.
First post over.
The title of this first blog reminds me of this amazing song by Mark Knight, a DJ in which I presume no-one has ever heard of. But I continue with something slightly more academic (however, what is considered "academic" is another discussion entirely...)
New Media is the main topic of this blog, as a second year student at Lincoln University this is a really interesting way of learning...we will see how well it works.
First post over.
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