tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56876284612328252652024-03-05T16:54:39.785-08:00Media MusingsThe musings of a college professor who enjoys
studying visual communication, video games, film, and other forms of popular culture.CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-1620074262655785792013-01-21T18:15:00.002-08:002013-01-21T18:15:26.100-08:00Class Time Again!Okay, it's time for another special topics course for spring semester. This time, however, instead of a visual communication course, we are focusing on the evolution of media industries, specifically looking at the role of convergent media from a critical perspective. My students will be posting journal entries at several points during the year (see their blog links in the blog list to the right) so check out their thoughts.Mark Crueahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13584013985273916301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-67657391883255950932012-01-07T19:07:00.000-08:002012-01-07T19:10:10.442-08:00New Visual Persuasion ClassNext Wednesday, we start a new term, and I get the pleasure of teaching another class on Visual Persuasion (recently renamed). I have added a new page on this blog (see above) where I will post questions to which students will need to respond. I am anxious to read their insights as every time I teach, I learn something new myself!CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-49369116591769810622010-08-17T16:24:00.000-07:002012-01-07T19:07:21.097-08:00The Joys of AlbumsOk. This is decidedly off topic for me, but I rediscovered a joy today that has been lost in our day of iPod Shuffles. Quite simply, it is the pleasure of listening to an entire album from beginning to end. Today, it was Pink Floyd's <i>The Wall</i>. There were so many songs I had forgotten and loved what seems like a long time ago. Ironically, when this album debuted in 1979, my junior year in high school, I hated the music. I really didn't listen to the entire album, or own it for that matter, until some time in college. <div><br /></div><div>Maybe it's just nostalgia at work, but I still believe this album to be a masterpiece. At the time reviews were mixed and there was even some controversy, although I don't remember the details. More media effects scares if I remember correctly. Somehow our generation survived! It does require that you listen to it from beginning to end, and it's not a small undertaking given that it was a double album containing 26 separate songs in total. If you aren't familiar with the background, look it up and read.<div><br /></div><div>Today's listening is the culmination of me beginning to rebuild my record collection. In college I had over 200 vinyl LPs plus cassettes. I still have all of those albums as well as a turntable, and as much as I like vinyl, there's something about being able to listen to <i>The Wall</i> from beginning to end without having to flip record sides. It's one continuous stream of music. I am certainly looking forward to finishing my dissertation and listening to more complete albums. It is a guilty pleasure that I will savor. </div></div>CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-73403033956349673802010-07-08T19:15:00.001-07:002010-07-08T19:27:00.420-07:00Sick of LeBronSorry all of you Cav's fans, but I'm glad the LeBron thing is finally over. The media circus was absolutely over the top and unnecessary. Did he really deserve a full hour for this announcement? Earlier this evening, a talking head on ESPN proclaimed (extremely paraphrased) that one thing is for sure - the world will stop tonight at 9:00. Really??? My world didn't. I was enjoying ice cream at the Salty Dog cafe on Hilton Head island and didn't even think about it until my son turned on the TV back at our condo after 10:00. No offense, but who really cares? There are so many other things going on in this world that are more important than who ended up getting the supposed king. Quite honestly, the ridiculous amount of money these guys get has gone way too far. They're playing a sport - not saving the world.CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-35616529722190628732010-05-05T12:13:00.000-07:002010-05-05T12:29:57.425-07:00Fatherly PrideYes. I know. It's been a while. It is that busy time of the year with graduation and all sorts of activities to attend. Oh, and I'm still trying to be a good husband, father, and graduate student (although the last one has taken a back seat to the others recently!).<div><br /></div><div>At any rate, two points of pride that are decidedly different topics from my usual. First-my son. Connor is 12 and already stands at around 5'9" to 5'10." He's going to be tall. The last few years he has grown 4 inches a year. If that rate continues, I will be looking up to a 13-year-old next year. Ouch! Connor eats and breathes baseball. He devours statistics and can tell you so much about various players on different teams. He loves to play as well. This year, he is coming into his own as a player as his batting and pitching skills have improved tremendously. His team's first game was last Monday and they won 11-0. He pitched two solid innings with a three and out both times. He also hit a solo shot home run that went a few feet over the fence. We've got the ball at home and will soon have it on display. It was just one of those cool moments in life that come every so often.</div><div><br /></div><div>My daughter excels as well, but she is more artistic in nature. She loves to draw and paint. She has been in band, and absolutely loves singing. She is in Findlay High School's freshman choir as well as Voices in Perfection (VIP), which is the school's freshman show choir. This Friday is their big finale concert and she was selected to be one of the soloists. She is so pumped! Not only is she talented, but she is beautiful (imho). =)</div><div><br /></div><div>I am so very proud of both of them. They have done well academically, athletically, and artistically. I never feel that I tell them often enough how I feel, so this is one manifestation of that. They will certainly be told in person as well. As frustrating as parenting is at times, the good outweighs the bad by a long shot. So here's to my kids! I am proud, and I love you both.</div>CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-21601136049728298502010-03-16T06:49:00.000-07:002010-03-16T19:09:32.240-07:00Bob Peterson@ONU and the Process of Interpellation<div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5I14pJj7oRVoskRBzic3l37wRf0JvoK1T60eY7ZK6WkZM3vbdz5xssw-s8Jy9-FJmiiDXH8oZsw-m3_F9eRq0NssQfvNpGrkMNZYtCw2gtaEIiVAJr50GBlgwpuukZhfMu105zCdb8o/s1600-h/IMG00046.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5I14pJj7oRVoskRBzic3l37wRf0JvoK1T60eY7ZK6WkZM3vbdz5xssw-s8Jy9-FJmiiDXH8oZsw-m3_F9eRq0NssQfvNpGrkMNZYtCw2gtaEIiVAJr50GBlgwpuukZhfMu105zCdb8o/s200/IMG00046.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449253624674574866" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 152px; " /></a>Last night, I had the privilege of listening to Bob Peterson speak at ONU. For those of you not familiar with Bob, he is the writer and co-director of the movie <i>Up</i>, which just won numerous awards. He is also the voice of the dog Dug. Besides <i>Up</i>, Bob was involved in the movies <i>Toy Story</i>, <i>Finding Nemo</i>, and <i>Monster's Inc</i>. Besides being an employee of Pixar, he is also an 1983 ONU grad in mechanical engineering.<div><br /></div><div>For those of you who missed his presentation, you missed an opportunity of a lifetime. Not only is Bob one of the most engaging speakers I have ever heard, he is also quite personable, knowledgeable, and humble. It was simply an interesting presentation that took you through the process of creating a cg film. He also shared some of his voices, including Roz from <i>Monster's Inc.</i> and Dug the dog from <i>Up.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>Bob was also kind enough to stick around for autographs and pictures which he did for my wife and me (got an autographed copy of the movie!).</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWyke59NQtTE-8D2H46q1grZpJ6kuGWVFigR4sFgSD4_LfhLbh8aCO0lQoNwVHYb36tyezH1iRsYzzSmIdIcGj2UhIbeumtVkxtV7SM9QEi_BEn_ESaUGTJNMBXUx_ORK8cHTFLwNDLYw/s200/IMG00050.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449254714591623378" /><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWMR1aHGgz2yJWGlaiRIw-Qp6dYN-VhZCMnn40EzP7bfOgfkFt_n1RrWmTuvRxj8ZML1CqM1aSPh8Yj7CXQCX1CoDTyqIESnmHM-LKv2YwIixv2X0k0umHdGuyNELjSKPKp2T_cnWQb8/s200/IMG00052.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449254923455356098" /></div><div><br /></div>Part of what I want to touch on in this post was how Bob addressed the issue of making meaning through these cgi characters. One of the questions asked at the end of the presentation was about audience and whether Pixar tried to target certain segments of the market. Bob's answer was interesting in that he says that Pixar doesn't try to target audiences so much as tell a good story. In the end, the film ends up appealing to a number of people and each viewer takes away certain elements that touch them in some way. This is classic interpellation where the viewer feels a connection with the characters in a film (or images...) through a process of identification. For me, I particularly was affected by the opening sequence that traces Carl and Ellie's life from the moment of their first meeting to her death. I related to this sequence in quite an emotional way. Perhaps this is due to my realization of how fleeting life is and all the missed moments we have in our lives. I especially see this in my children, now teenagers, and wonder "Where did the time go?"<div><br /><div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 136px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjtyPcfpUEcLv9NEkn1kksicSSAI_3TY6oT39GlL8Q_r16_mp0BHsE2kCItZ9EqC0Jplwemfzso-Pgy8sMiA42nDzTut-klcs4_txgJnYQdoq_FvwxTlcx0gTGC7JaUxPy2XzvXuJLfY/s200/Man+and+Dog.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449258876182132898" /></div><div>Images often speak to us in this way. One of my favorites is an image of an old man and a dog sitting on a bench (A larger version is displayed on my images page). We only see the back of the individual, which allows us to put our selves in his place. It gets me thinking about those quiet moments in life and this image captures one such moment amid the business of a day. I also like the way the photographer caught the layers of vertical lines - bench, fence, man, dog, trees, windows - that create a motif. In addition, I like the use of black and white, which simplifies the image and draws attention to these repeating elements. Take a look and see what you think. What images call to you?</div></div>CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-16809599088587110892010-03-13T12:19:00.000-08:002010-03-13T12:44:22.288-08:00Is Truth in the Eye of the Beholder?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">For the first journal assignment, I asked students to look at a series of images to determine whether they were true or false. While reading one of the posts, I was intrigued by one of the responses. Here is what was stated:</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">"Truth" is in the eye of the beholder as far as perception of images go, so while I may see these pictures as "false," others may be firmly believe that they are "true."</span></span></blockquote></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I am still trying to decide whether or not I agree with what was said, and I probably won't know until we talk about it in class so I can find out a little more about what the student meant. Part of the issue may lie in the way I entitled the assignment - "True or False." In hindsight, I am not sure if it was the best choice of words. My aim was to have the students examine the images and based on the clues the image offered, decide if the image was real or if it had been faked. By using "True and False," perhaps I added a different layer of meaning in some unintended way. For instance, what may assumed to be truth may not be assumed to be real. I am quite impressed that this student picked up on the wording and thought of the assignment in a different way.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">At this point, I am not going to further analyze the statement. After the class discussion, I'll continue this post.</span></span></span></div>CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-55944997542575880302010-03-12T09:05:00.001-08:002010-03-12T09:55:55.946-08:00Great Site - Gender AdsIn my search for images to use for the VisComm Issues class, I ran across a website (<a href="http://www.genderads.com/">Gender Ads</a>) maintained by Dr. Scott Lukas. There are literally hundreds of images that are primarily related to how gender (and sex) is used in advertising. The site is a little rough in design, but Scott provides some interesting commentary on the images including background and his thoughts on how such images perpetuate stereotypes about gender. While I do not always agree with his analyses, I respect his interpretations, and hold these differences up as examples of how individual interpretations differ - we all make meaning in slightly different ways.<div><br /></div><div>I also found it interesting to read the page that contains copies of the emails he has received. One person was quite explicit that the site did not use proper research methods. This points to how some people have no conception of research outside of the scientific method. In essence, unless you use a positivistic, quantitative methodology and distance yourself (allegedly to remove bias, which I believe to be impossible), you cannot be doing research. Of course this is an old argument that completely ignores the value of conducting research from a humanistic standpoint. It reminds me of a statement by one of my fellow grad students who had interviewed <a href="http://www.jamescmccroskey.com/">James McCroskey</a> from the University of Alabama-Birmingham for our class. McCroskey was quoted as saying, "You can do quantitative, or you can do crap." Wow! Let's just invalidate half the research being conducted by other academics with nine little words.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here is my perspective. Distance isn't everything. Bias is normal and ubiquitous. Getting to know human beings on a more intimate level provides insights that cold statistics cannot provide. Is it the same? No. Is it valuable? In my opinion, yes. To me, the idea that you can fully know something or someone by being a distant observer fully flies in the face of common sense.</div><div><br /></div><div>Another person was upset that Dr. Lukas even suggested that these images carried any negative connotations. It's just advertising. It doesn't mean anything. Right. These types of responses just go to show how these ideas are naturalized as ideology. If it's just advertising and there are no effects, then why do so many of our youth have body image issues (yes, both male and female) that tie directly to the idealized images used by the media. And for those who care, there are plenty of quantitative studies to back this up. Do your own research and check it out.</div><div><br /></div><div>That's my rant for now. When you get a chance, check out the images and make your own judgments. Till then...</div>CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-6570647894886893262009-06-28T05:36:00.000-07:002009-06-28T05:39:53.928-07:00Earth GospelOn a seperate note, tomorrow I am starting a new devotional series entitles <a href="http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=622465">Earth Gospel</a>, by Sam Hamilton-Poore. It is a four-week series of devotions that examine how the envrionment is addressed through the Bible. I am anxious to see the insights provided in this series. Updates to come!CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-29077486127754212242009-06-28T05:28:00.000-07:002009-06-28T05:36:07.602-07:00Growth and ChangeAlright-So the dissertation has <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">progressed</span> and changed. My proposal defense went well with solid feedback from my committee. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">While</span> I am still very much interested in the environmental impact of the video game industry (and consumer electronics in general), the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">diss</span> now has a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">slightly</span> narrower AND broader focus at the same time. In <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">essence</span>, my job is to trace the business models used in the industry looking at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">externalities</span> that are not accounted for. These include effects on the environment, but also other effects on society.<div><br /></div><div>At this point, I am submitting an application to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">BGSU's</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">HSRB</span> (our version of an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">IRB</span>), but can move on the research existing sources that do not include the interviews I have planned. Once <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">HSRB</span> has approved, I can start making contacts. I am hoping for potentially rich sources of information to come out of these interviews, but you never know what you will get.</div><div><br /></div><div>Til later...</div>CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-25988539306240442422009-05-28T18:18:00.001-07:002010-02-25T12:52:38.329-08:00New Dawn<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I actually wrote this entry on a bus ride from Findlay, Ohio to New York City last week. I finally have the blog set up and this is my first official entry. Stay tuned for more...</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Over the years, I have occasionally contributed to the blogosphere, primarily in an effort to finish some classroom assignment as I completed my graduate work. However, I never seemed to have any other purpose to blog. That has now changed. As I ride across the state of </span><st1:state st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Ohio</span></st1:state><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> on a bus full of students and parents heading toward </span><st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">New York City</span></st1:place></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">, I find a new sense of purpose awakening within me. It is now 6:45 in the morning. We left </span><st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Findlay</span></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">, </span><st1:state st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Ohio</span></st1:state></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> at 5:15 this morning driving toward the dawn of a new day. I find this an appropriate metaphor for my own awakening – an awakening to new ideas about the world’s social order and my place in it. I also have a revised focus for my dissertation and eventual body of work.<br /></span></div><div> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Lately, I have been reading about the effects of capitalism on the environment, and I have come to realize that as a Christian and world citizen, I have a responsibility to this world including the people living in it and the ecosystem that surrounds us. For quite some time now, I have felt that I have some greater purpose to serve and now I know what it is. If I can, as an academic, contribute to the betterment of this world, then it is my privilege, and yes duty, to do what I can to make a difference. For academics, that work is often accomplished through words and the exchange of ideas, although my hope is to effect praxis as well. For what good are words if real change does not result? At this point in my life and career, I do not have an answer to how change can be affected, but I am sure that change is certainly possible. I also know that this will not be easy change as the current social order is certainly well-embedded in the psyche of this nation and change is never easy. However, that only means that we must work that much harder in order to see the world benefit from our work.<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">In the end, it is my hope to leave my children with a better world than that within which they were born. That vision includes a world where equality of all humans is more of a reality than just a dream. It is a vision that includes an eradication of hunger, a chance for all humans to participate in meaningful work, and the elevation of humankind to a higher level. This is neither a trifling matter nor an easy task. It will take the efforts of many to accomplish this goal, but I know that I am not alone. There are many others of my ilk and God is at work through all of us. It is through His grace that I am in this position and I must undertake this responsibility with the utmost care. For the first time in my life, I know that I am truly blessed and as the dawn of a new day arrives, I find myself thankful for the experience of simply being and the knowledge that my purpose in life is now established.</span><br /></p></div>CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-22214168903145974452007-08-02T18:31:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:29.904-08:00Final Entry - Feminist Research ClassWell this is it folks - the last time I write in this blog for Dr. G. Tonight was the last night of class - literally. It was the last class meeting for the course as well as the last class I have to officially take. Now (in the words of Andy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Famigletti</span>), I am facing down the barrel of my dissertation (and prelims and dissertation proposal, all of which come first).<br /><br />So what did I think about tonight's class? We met in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">SL</span> again, but this time with a group discussing ethical research. Some of the ERG members were there as were quite a few new names and digital faces. The question up for discussion was from a person in New Zealand whose <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">IRB</span> is requesting that he gets <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">RL</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">signatures</span> from the individuals he is researching in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">SL</span>. Seems like an odd request to me and shows that this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">IRB</span> has little understanding of life in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">SL</span>. Since so many people use <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">SL</span> on the basis of anonymity, how are he expected to get those <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">RL</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">signatures</span>? Why won't a digital consent form work?<br /><br />This led to a discussion of what is meant by ethical research in the context of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">SL</span>. One of the participants mentioned that even though avatar names are not necessarily reflective of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">RL</span> name, there could be <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">RL</span> consequences if that avatar's name is used in the research. In other words, the research gets published and a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">SL</span> user reads it then decides to look up this avatar. This could result in a variety of outcomes including the avatar being <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">harassed</span>, etc. In addition, even though <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">SL</span> has acceptable use <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">guidelines</span>, there is still that possibility of an adverse outcome.<br /><br />My question then is "What happens in a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">RL</span> ethnography? Do the people need to give consent. I am assuming so, but can they ask to not be identified in the research or require that a pseudonym be used? If so, why couldn't the same procedure occur here? It seems that if the subjects click on an 'Accept" button, they know that they are being observed anyway, so why not ask for a hard copy <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">signature</span>? I realize that the context may vary, and the type of question being asked may cause some people to decline any type of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">identification</span>. It's a matter of trust. But if it is possible to get <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">RL</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">signatures</span>, why not try? The worst thing that can happen is that the researcher is denied, but proof can be offered to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">IRB</span> that getting these <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">signatures</span> is too difficult, possibly swaying them to try another avenue. In addition, it is important to talk with other researchers to find out their <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">IRB</span> policies <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">regarding</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">SL</span> and use that as ammunition to request a change in policy.<br /><br />Those are pretty much my thoughts at this point. I may use this blog in the future as a gathering place for my thoughts on prelims and my dissertation. Until then - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">TTFN</span>.CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-49213600406681844782007-07-30T13:10:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.008-08:00Second Life and Sex/Gender<strong>Purpose:</strong> To have students explore reactions to differently gendered avatars<br /><strong>Tools:</strong> Computer, Internet Access, Second Life (available as a free download)<br /><strong>Time:</strong> 2-4 hours online plus time for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">journaling</span><br /><br /><u>Phase I</u><br />The primary goal of this assignment is to allow students to explore Second Life with avatars configured to represent various genders. The student will need to obtain a Second Life account (available for free) and then create his or her first avatar. How that avatar is sexed/gendered is completely up to the student, but care should be taken to craft an avatar that is clearly male or female. Usually body shape is enough to adequately code male or female. Once an avatar is ready, the student should feel free to explore Second Life and interact with its many denizens. After this exploration is complete, the student should record his or her experiences in a journal to be submitted to the instructor.<br /><br /><u>Phase II</u><br />After the initial reactions are recorded, the student should alter the appearance of the avatar to denote the opposite sex/gender. Once completed, the student can once again explore Second Life and look for reactions. It is best to visit a new area of Second Life so that the chance of meeting a prior acquaintance is reduced since the avatar’s name will not change. Again, the student should record his or her findings in a journal.<br /><br /><u>Phase III<br /></u>The last phase will repeat Phase II, but a gender non-specific avatar needs to be crafted. Mixing visual codes helps (play with body shape, hair length, etc.). Findings should be recorded in the student’s journal.<br /><br /><u>Additional Activities<br /></u>Students should write at least one more journal entry that discusses the different types of reactions found including how the student felt posing in the avatar’s many forms. For a longer assignment, the student can write a comparison and contrast paper that expands on his/her experiences and uses sources to help frame the essay.CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-75957891415514674292007-07-24T22:00:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.032-08:00Feminist Film Theory and Video GamesLately I have been reading up on feminist film theory and thinking about how I can apply it to my research on video games. So here goes. Please bear with me as I try to make sense of what I am attempting to articulate.<br /><br />One of the most important theorists in this field is Laura <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Mulvey</span> who wrote an article in the 1970s entitled <em>Visual Please and Narrative Cinema</em>. In this article, she uses <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">psychoanalysis</span> to examine films and talks quite a bit about how early Hollywood films centered on the male gaze which asserts that the viewer is looking through the eyes of the male and women are merely objects to be consumed by the gaze. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mulvey</span> has received criticism for this view since it has no place for a female gaze which would consume the male body as object. Obviously, film has changed much over the last 30 years, but I think her views have some merit when it comes to video games. Please understand that I have merely scratched the surface of this topic and hope to more informed posts down the line.<br /><br />In my view, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mulvey's</span> theory can <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">easily</span> be applied to video games. If you consider that in the vast majority of first-person shooters such as Doom, Quake, etc., the player is forced into the viewpoint of a male <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">protagonist</span>. There is no other choice. Yes, there are games such as Tomb Raider that break the mold, but isn't Lara Croft an object to be consumed by the male gaze as well? This is certainly fitting since the Tomb Raider games use a third-person perspective whereas the player can see both Lara and the action taking place.<br /><br />Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas works in a similar fashion. Women are objects to be consumed either as prostitutes or as average citizens on the street who are there to be beaten and robbed. Their only worth is the money they might have once beaten to death. Violence is a way to solve problems in a male-dominated (and virtual) world. This is what I plan to write about for Dr. G's class. Any input or advice is appreciated. Signing off for tonight.CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-72554542748123539502007-07-24T21:55:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.017-08:00NL in SL - Does this look like a guy?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7qDQDi5mmvfdYZ8-iqr7BpkP6bN49dpg3hFieQkRkxRet0BQafUffxCqHw6errISJWxjkM63fwnroxKNsf4hAAi9fmUPdsX4JM_XTbUxHxQ-lLqHt2TDVL3VulY_kJjooPZ_KEtCO2Kk/s1600-h/Snapshot_001.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5090993945127388162" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7qDQDi5mmvfdYZ8-iqr7BpkP6bN49dpg3hFieQkRkxRet0BQafUffxCqHw6errISJWxjkM63fwnroxKNsf4hAAi9fmUPdsX4JM_XTbUxHxQ-lLqHt2TDVL3VulY_kJjooPZ_KEtCO2Kk/s320/Snapshot_001.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-54698598207771333242007-07-24T21:14:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.042-08:00More Adventures in Second LifeOkay - Last night and today were weird. Not only did I seemingly have an influence on the gender changing of a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">SL</span> avatar, but I was part and parcel to a couple of additionally strange incidents. Today I ventured to a few new areas. I was on another beach when I noticed a rather nice yacht. I stepped aboard and looked around a bit. Upon entering the main cabin, I ran into male and female avatar and was asked my the male if I was interested in a threesome. Before I could answer, the female walked away. Within seconds, the male was yelling at me to leave. Evidently, his girlfriend was none to happy with him and his suggestion. It would be really interesting to know if they are a couple in real life. If so, he is probably in a living hell right now for his transgression. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">RL</span> seemingly spilled over into <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">SL</span> and vice <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">versa</span>.<br /><br />After I left the yacht, I took a stroll along the beach and came upon a couple floating on a raft near the shore. I stopped to look around and was close enough to catch their chat. The male asked his female friend if that was a guy in a bikini. Several snide comments were made and they obviously referred to my avatar since I was the only one near. First, I don't think that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">NL</span> looks like a guy, but you can judge for yourself. Second, their reaction to what was perceived as a violation of the gender restrictions was quite <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">humorous</span>. There was no conception available to them of the possibility that a male might wear a bikini. Their comments at once marginalized me and protected their view of the world - even a virtual world like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">SL</span>. Reminded me of Sloop and Butler. I wonder what would have happened if I had approached them. I'll have to try that sometime if this ever happens again. Perhaps I should create a male avatar and dress him in a bikini. That might be fun!CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-27871443050499341312007-07-24T07:45:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.025-08:00Who was He/She? or How I Caused an Avatar to Change Gender in Second LifeSo I decided to go to the beach today and see what happened when I interacted with other avatars. It didn't take long for someone to approach me given I was walking around as a female in a barely-there bikini. The person, who shall be known as Paolo, identified himself as a 23-year old male from Brazil. He asked where I was from to which I honestly replied Ohio. Within the first few minutes of chat he asked if he could kiss me. I replied that we had just met and perhaps he should get to know me before making such advances. :) At least I didn't tell <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">him</span> I was saving myself for marriage! He seemed okay with my mild-mannered rejection and asked if we could walk. So we walked and eventually ended at the hot tub on the island. We both got in and he decided to edit his appearance, evidently trying to create a swim suit on the fly. Just as it seemed that he was finished, he moved away from the hot tub and continued to edit his appearance.<br /><br />After waiting a few minutes (and getting propositioned by a male avatar with an erect penis), I went over to sunbathe by the pool. Hey - why not earn a couple of dollars while waiting! I could see Paolo in the distance still editing his appearance, but I couldn't tell what changes he was making. I even sent an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">IM</span> but got no response. Eventually, I sauntered over to Paolo and to my surprise, he had sprouted breasts! I made some comment that he certainly had changed, but still received no reply. And I thought there had been a connection. :(<br /><br />Anyway, I know for sure now that you can never tell gender in SL. But I have to wonder...did my refusal to make avatar contact have anything to do with his gender switching? Had I caused him to question whether or not my avatar was truly female since I had not <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">leaped</span> into his arms right away and thus led him to consider making him/<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">herself</span> female? Who knows? It was certainly an interesting experience and I am still trying to decide if I should feel rejected in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">RL</span> because my avatar had been rejected in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">SL</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Hmmmm</span>.<br /><br />Since last night, I have been attempting to relate my readings to my continued experiences in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">SL</span>. I had two chapters - one by Code and the other by Collins. The latter was certainly more interesting and accessible. Collins work focused on the concept of family and how that concept related <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">intersectionally</span> to gender, race, class, and nation. Part of her argument is that power relations that exist in the ideal family (men in power, women subordinate, etc...) reflect themselves at other levels such as race and nation. I can certainly see this played out in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">SL</span>, but I don't think it is as absolute as in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">RL</span>. The fact that one can switch gender lets any person assume the role they wish, thus turning the tables.<br /><br />In addition, the phallus is so overwhelmingly evident in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">SL</span> (see above). One can certainly see how such a focus is a symbol of male power. People with avatars sporting such appendages certainly seem to think that it makes them the envy of all female avatars. I have witnessed these characters strutting around asking every female avatar in sight to have some type of sexual interaction. It's as if they are saying, "Hey! Look at my huge, erect penis. You must want to be with a man like me!" I haven't seen enough interactions between differently-raced avatars to give any thoughts on how Collins work might relate. Til next time - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">NL </span>will be thinking of Paolo and dreaming of what might have been....CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-45373710540344963982007-07-18T09:45:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.183-08:00Ethnography in Perrysburg HeightsLast night I traveled with Sue Ellen, Shuang, and Heather to a home in Perrysburg Heights. The team was sent to complete some fieldwork collecting information from the residents in this area. On a previous trip, I had driven through the area and then spent some time walking around Levis Commons. This time I had the chance to hear from local residents about how the changes in the community were affecting them. In addition to the homeowners, both of their daughters were present. One of the themes that ran through the conversation dealt with the sense of community that the residents had, and how few people moved away. Even if they did move away, they often came back.<br /><br />On the way back to BG, Heather, Shuang, and I discussed the conversation that took place and used a feminist lens to unpack what we had heard. One of the first observations was how the husband had dominated the conversation and the wife deferred to him quite often (although not always). Other comments were made in reference to the daughters, who when younger, were not allowed to stray far away from home, because "they were girls." The reaction to Shuang was quite strong as well. The notion that this person from China could actually be in their home seemed to completely surprise them, and the wife asked about Shuang's note taking which was in Chinese. To me, it seemed as though the husband was a little surprised that she was not writing in English - almost as if she should have been writing in English because she was in America. Heather didn't agree with me completely on this point, but that is how I took the comments. Indeed, her Otherness seemed to mystify the couple quite a bit.<br /><br />Those were a few of the items we talked about, and I am sure that other revelations will be forthcoming once the tape is reviewed. All in all, it was an interesting experience and this family made us quite welcome in their home.CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-40816382047907184112007-07-17T11:19:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.293-08:00Semiotics and Second LifeI am adding an additional entry to help collect some of my thoughts based on recent readings. In particular, I have been completing a close reading of Jonathan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Bignell's</span> <em>Media Semiotics</em>. While I have had a class on visual communication which included semiotics, this book is much more accessible and it focuses specifically on the media. This is different from Chandler's <em>Semiotics, </em>which is a good book, but a lot more dense.<br /><br />Currently, I am reading a chapter about <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Barthe's</span> book <em>Mythology</em> and have been making some connections with our experiences in Second Life (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">SL</span>). To me, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Barthe's</span> biggest contribution was his unmasking of how myth makes a sign seem natural. In <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">SL</span>, I recently changed my appearance. At first, my avatar was based on a male body and designed to look ambiguous. For a while the avatar was even green. During this time, I was never approached by anyone other than classmates. However, my new appearance is that of a female, probably considered "pretty" by current Western cultural standards. She is tall, with a slim figure and fairly large breasts. Almost immediately I had other avatars asking me to chat and/or be friends.<br /><br />The signs encoded by the female form I chose for my avatar indicated to others (specifically male avatars) that I was sexy, approachable, and possibly interesting. Other sexual connotations may have been implied, but I never let the interactions go far enough to find out. What struck me was how my form gave off these signs as if they were natural. Her looks and shape were <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">signifiers</span> to other users based on what has been learned in our culture. The person behind the avatar was never questioned and neither were the intentions behind creation of my avatar. I am very interested to see what happens if the avatar is made to appear "unattractive."CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-56110577642402462112007-07-13T10:17:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.071-08:00More Second LifeLast night we spent the entire class exploring in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">SL</span></span>. I found myself doing a little adventuring and ran across another sex-related establishment. There were all kinds of clothing available related to bondage or at the very least, it was very revealing. Another item was a collar, that when put on, allowed another to control that avatar, making them submissive, etc. The prevalence of the sex industry in this world is unbelievable. Amy ran across a conversation that mentioned roughly touching a penis. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Cybersex</span></span> evidently is still going strong on the Internet.<br /><br />However, what I found myself continually returning to was the appearance function. I am fascinated by the choices (and lack of choices) that are available. I have changed my appearance to female and had previously looked a little <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">androgynous</span>. I also played with race a bit. After talking with Dr. G., I think I will use this as the focus for my papers in this class as well as the proposal.<br /><br />One thing I did figure out is that I am not a Judith Butler fan, at least not based on the chapter I had to read and summarize for class. Thankfully, she is not required for my dissertation.CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-79381032738936999472007-07-10T19:21:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.299-08:00Journal Entry #4 - Butler, Embodiment, and Second LifeTonight was both frustrating and fun. The first part of class, while discussing Butler, was the frustrating part. I just have a hard time grasping what she is trying to say. I am glad Dr. G let me wait until Thursday to discuss my chapter since I need to revisit it. I am not sure how much the class discussion will help because I had a hard tome following much of what was said. I'll see what happens - tomorrow is a new day. I did see Butler's writing reflected in Sloop's from last week. The idea that gender needs to move away from the binary was evident in both. These ideas were played out in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">SL</span>. Amy's avatar, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Eggbert</span>, was a mixture of female and male <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">signifiers</span>. There was a hint of breasts and a full beard. I think I'll play with my avatar a little to see what I can do. In the meantime, it would be interesting to see how others react to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Eggbert</span> and what/who they think the person is in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">RL</span>.<br /><br />The discussion on embodiment in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">SL</span> was interesting, but difficult to follow because I have not read much on embodiment. However, holding the discussion in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">SL</span> made it interesting. I wish I knew more about Gore (?) since there were so many references. I did not enjoy the experience as much because of the rapid progression of text. It was hard to read it all let alone contribute. I did manage a few lines though. In addition, the existence of my avatar in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">SL</span> didn't really make a difference to me. You are so focused on reading that the graphics seem irrelevant. Not vey immersive. I thought of the time we used the Blackboard system for chat last semester. This was less frustrating because you could see more text in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">SL</span> system. Perhaps having fewer participants would make it easier. I am eager to see the transcript so that I can review the discussion for more info. Till next time - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">toodles</span>.CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-57865641310831584022007-07-05T09:16:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.305-08:00Journal Entry #3 - A Few ConnectionsI am not sure if an entry is needed for last Tuesday's class, but I am going to start one anyway, and then after tonight's class, I may add more to these thoughts.<br /><br />I have been going over the readings/summaries from our first two books as well as thinking about the assignments we have had so far. One of the themes in Potter's book dealt with how morals affect science and another dealt with how knowledge is produced in communities, not in isolation. In looking back at Tuesday's trip to Perrysburg Heights (PH)/Levis Commons (LC), I can certainly see how both of these themes tied to the assignment.<br /><br />For one, we have been encouraged to work in groups to summarize the books, complete assignments, and interact in Second Life. All of these interactions allow us to process and produce knowledge ala Potter's themes. This process will continue for the next four weeks as we complete this class, and for those of us who continue on in research, perhaps for a lifetime.<br /><br />The values/morals theme was apparent in our trip to PH and LC. What an interesting contrast there was between the two with PH evidently a low income area and LC as an example of capitalism at its finest (and still in development). One has to wonder if the surrounding development will eventually squeeze PH out of existence, and what was the moral reasoning behind choosing this location as the spot for LC?<br /><br />I have some interesting pictures that I have made into a <a href="http://personal.bgsu.edu/~mcruea/movie">slideshow</a>. I have brought this into our discussion boards and am interested to see others' reactions to my little movie as well as their own trips. More on the readings and Second Life in the next post.CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-36073405166877222732007-07-05T06:59:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.312-08:00Journal Entry #2 - A Second Life<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjthgh9se4YGxkNu5P3jmREIPqAuQQPS4YqylpqMOeGrdREaLLDmdO2r4CSV3u4v7qgwsnJgvy43mlHdTjZzU-INHGs0vFTncQw2WqzuSa8ZXp8a_bxjPyMZMFdvzAVOakfYU1shYTcH1s/s1600-h/SL01_001.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5083716452540234610" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjthgh9se4YGxkNu5P3jmREIPqAuQQPS4YqylpqMOeGrdREaLLDmdO2r4CSV3u4v7qgwsnJgvy43mlHdTjZzU-INHGs0vFTncQw2WqzuSa8ZXp8a_bxjPyMZMFdvzAVOakfYU1shYTcH1s/s320/SL01_001.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Apparently I missed a good class on Thursday, and it feels like I am already behind a bit. Going over the discussion boards is helping as well as the summaries from Potter that were available. I would still like to see chapter 2 however. In particular, I like Heather’s thread on transpeople and SL, and I am eager to see the other postings.<br /><br />SL has been a little disconcerting. I had used it very briefly last spring, but only one time. Somehow I transported myself to a different location, and I still have no idea how to get back or how to go to other locations in the game. I need some more time and to speak with some of my classmates. This weekend I did spend some time “flying” around my current realm. I certainly discovered some interesting things. For instance, I found what is apparently a gentlemen’s club (see image) called Vixen’s. There were women running around scantily clad. Interesting how sexuality has spilled into this online environment. I wonder though, after reading our chapters, if any LBGT activity goes on. It might be interesting to try an experiment. :)<br /><br />I still find the interface rather awkward, and as I remember, changing my appearance was no easy task. I would like to play a bit and even try being a female. As of yet, I have not interacted with any of the other players. Just not feeling gabby the first couple of times out. Tonight I’m heading to Perrysburg with a few other students. Will get into SL a little more later on.</div>CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-30684672725273356702007-07-05T06:57:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.326-08:00Journal Entry #1 - The Token MaleTonight’s class was interesting on many levels. I was the “token” male in the class which was a new experience for me. Since much of the discussion centered on marginalization, my situation gave me a different perspective. I am not trying to say that anyone was intentionally trying to make me uncomfortable. If anything, it was my change in status that made the difference – I made myself uncomfortable. I think that the experience was mitigated by the fact that I knew 2/3 of the people already. If I had not known so many of the students, I would have felt even stranger. In addition, I was also a little out of my comfort zone with the topic. However, I am sure that will change as I get into the readings.<br /><br />In regard to the discussion, I was reminded of some discussions we had in Cyberculture and Philosophical Foundations. Specifically, I thought of Keller’s Reflections on Gender and Science. She also dealt with the beginnings of science and the positivists. The article we were given in class partially dealt with positivism and how feminists have reacted to it. There seems to be a mixed reaction, but I believe that is good since it leads to multiple ways of knowing (something else discussed in class).<br /><br />On a side note, every time someone used the word oppressed/repressed, I had to keep myself from laughing. I recently watched Monty Python and the Holy Grail, so I kept hearing, “Help! Help! I’m being repressed! Come and see the violence inherent in the system.” So much for autonomist collectives!<br /><br />I am glad to see more structure to this class. Having the readings planned out is a big help. Thanks Dr. G!CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5687628461232825265.post-12843997345337705642007-07-05T06:53:00.000-07:002010-02-19T19:04:30.334-08:00Back in the game!I am back to occassional blogging for a femininst research class I have with Dr. Radhi G. Can't promise I will maintain the blog past the first week of August, but this is a convenient outlet for class.CrewEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07299188877458030720noreply@blogger.com0