Monday, April 27, 2009

MOVIE MAKER BLOG!!!

My movie maker piece is suppose to portray the wonderful country life that I enjoy so much. I believe so many times people get caught up in the convenience of "the city life" that they forget about the serenity of the country side, God's Country as we call it. I wouldn't trade it for a million bucks, and that may make me a simple country girl but so be it. I hope everyone enjoyed my own version of "My Green Acres."


Ashley Douglas and I worked together but posted seperately. We didn't want to jepordize the quality of our project by combining two completely opposite pieces.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

FEEDBACK: ADDRESS, PRESS, or BLESS!

IS IT ENGLISH CLASS OR IS IT ART CLASS?

First of all, new media already has a place in the classroom, the art classroom. I’m not saying that English teachers can’t incorporate some forms of new media texts, but let’s face it; teachers have an abundance of grammar rules which can’t be taught through visual imaging. They also have an obligation to teach composition, and unfortunately, the proper structure of composition papers can’t be taught by interpreting a picture. However, every teacher knows that visual representation enhances meaning, and a good teacher uses the perfect combination of text and visuals whenever possible to increase effectiveness. We’ve all heard that a picture speaks a thousand words. For example, teachers have used story books for years to enhance students’ comprehension of stories. This is not a new discovery!

“Finally, I would suggest, many English composition teachers have downplayed the importance of visual literacy and texts that depend primarily on visual elements because they confront us with the prospect of updating our literacies at the expense of considerable work, precious time, and a certain amount of status.” I find this quote incorrect and controversial. I can’t speak for all teachers, but as I mentioned before art composition or interpretation belongs in art class especially when being taught as a new concept. English teachers can integrate art in their lessons when it will enhance students’ learning.

As far as the computer side of things, I would have to say that one of the most important things for students to learn is the basics. Students can use this type of information whether they go to college or not. It has been my experience that colleges drill or shove required but useless computers courses down our throats. I have to say the most beneficial computer course I took was Intro to Computers at JCJC which guess what, taught me the basics. And the basics after all are what most people use on a daily basis. I believe students should have the option to take any multimedia literacy class as an elective whether it is in high school or college but should not be forced to take such classes that are not of interest or that doesn’t pertain the their degree.