I've really enjoyed these readings. The convergence piece really gave me a calming feeling, in the sense that technology transformations have been occurring forever. At times as my role as a parent, all this technology sometimes overwhelms me with regards to my children. Ironically when I use for work, it seems to be less overwhelming. However, each generation has usually benefited and come to terms with these new technologies. It's time I do that. Again the Jenkins article had a theme with 'C' terms – convergence, consumption, collective intelligence, collaboration, comfort zone, convergence culture and so forth. This 'consumption' and 'domestication of technology' is amazing and awe-inspriring all at once. When I typed in 'convergence' in the uTube the following 'Did You Know 4.0' video popped up and I thought it was interesting - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ILQrUrEWe8
Don't get me started on the 'black boxes' that have come and gone through my time – I am glad they are getting smaller and more integrated. Oh and the proofreading, I actually teach a Proofreading course and I can see how we overlook proofreading or should I say how we choose not to take the time to proofread. It is sad, but I am just as guilty. Is it okay that this is becoming the status quo?
While reading the slogan from the New Orleans Media Experience (2003), "Worship at the Altar of Convergence." I kept thinking about a show I listened to on NPR this summer about the FoxConn company and its decision to use suicide nets at it organization to prevent workers from committing suicide. FoxConn is a major provider of the components in the 'black boxes' or electronic devices we tend to consume on a daily basis. Please visit the following link for more information - http://www.dailytech.com/Foxconn+Installs+AntiSuicide+Nets+at+Its+Facilities/article18877.htm After listening to the program, I felt guilty that my 'consumption' would possibly push people to suicide. I have thought about this program often since this summer when I first was made aware of it. In all honesty, my 'consumption' hasn't changed, but I have done more research on where my products are coming from and the impact. It was kind of ironic, because at the time I was traveling to attend a technology conference.
Lastly, I can't image life without these types of communication technologies. My siblings and I are planning a 40th Anniversary party for our parents and it would have been a great deal more difficult without all these different communication vehicles to get all the arrangements made for this surprise.
At any rate, I am happy I have successful gotten this posted, so I can watch the big game tonight – Go VIKES J!
I almost passed by your page because of the "Go Vikes" comment...but, as the Pack won...I will let it go. I know what you mean when you say you cannot live without some of today's tech. I would be lost without my iPhone, my Macbook, facebook and text messages.
ReplyDeleteThat was a hard game to watch - urgh! I can hardly wait for Verizon to get the iPhone next year! We have an iTouch, but it just isn't the same thing.
ReplyDeleteI have the 32GB model iPhone...all my music, my phone, games and the web on one device. It is pretty awesome.
ReplyDeleteAmy--this comment is more of a general one and a follow up to my midterm eval of the blogs, but try to embed the full video, links, and any images in your post so we can see them on your site rather than having to go to another site. Also, be more specific in your opening statements especially. Rather than say "I've really enjoyed these readings," give us author and title info. Remember, your audience is a worldwide one, not just ENGL 745 folks!
ReplyDelete