This essay explores the political and democratic uses of the internet and the implications that actions of globalisation and the creation of online communities have on society. There is not an instant solution for the political misuse of the internet. Kevin Rudd’s Clean Feed[i] is not viable solution, but either is doing nothing. This essay will conclude with an appropriate solution to the political chaos on the internet.
There are many uses and limits of the internet in terms of politics and democracy. The use of politics on the World Wide Web is a wide spread phenomenon. Some common political uses of the internet are e-petitions such as Justice for Michael Jackson[ii] and Save Steve’s Place[iii]. Both these petitions ask for your signature and support in preserving the memory of these much loved entertainers. E-petitions are a fast and simple way of collecting support for a political cause via the internet. Both official and unofficial government websites are another political use of the internet. Certified government web pages such as the Australian Parliament House[iv] and NSW Government Website[v] provide unbiased, truthful and current information on the federal and state governments. Politically biased websites such as KevinPM[vi] and Australian Review[vii] may be considered a misuse of the internet due to their persuasive content. Free speech and censorship has allowed political ideologies to be expressed that would have previously been considered taboo. Newspapers and television did not publish political views that were against the party in power. The internet allowed these opinions to be expressed. The limits of the internet, in terms of reaching people on a political level, comprise of the percentage of the population that have internet access, and the percentage of those people who actually connect to the internet for political use. (See Diagram One) Instances of the limits can be seen in those who choose to follow Kevin Rudd on Twitter[viii] or check when parliament is sitting on the Australian Parliament House Website. [ix] Another limit is the ease by which any individual can create a website and respond to information posted on other websites on the internet. As there are no restrictions as to who can create a webpage, and limited restrictions as to what they post on there, the flow of politically biased information is uncontrolled. The democratic uses of the internet include the ability to reach mass audiences with important current affairs. The democratic limits exist when trying to control and suppress the amount of politically based advertising on the internet.
The nature of the political, the political use of the internet, should be rethought. Politics can be defined as “activity in relation to power”. “Politics is a domain of its own – the domain of power. Thus it is not morality, it is not aesthetics, it is not economic. Politics is a way of thinking.” [x] Meyer’s statement reinforces that ‘we’ – as a nation – should rethink the nature of politics. “The way politics divides the world is into friend and enemy” [xi] The internet savvy population of the world is infact divided into friend and enemy, not as half and half, but into smaller groups, from nations at war to individuals arguing over political beliefs. Both the situations should make us rethink the nature of the political, of politics and how the world is divided as a result.
In the age of networks that have the potential to span the whole planet, globalisation has taken over. ‘Networks’ may be defined as “LAN – local area networks[xii]or “WAN – Wide area networks, a computer network that covers a broad area.”[xiii] These two types of networks have increased rapidly since the invention of the internet. “Globalisation involves the reduction of barriers to trans-world contacts. Through it people become more able—physically, legally, culturally, and psychologically—to engage with each other in “one world”.[xiv] Globalisation has resulted in more communication being engaged by less communication. This has essentially lead to less information needing to be posted on the internet as individuals from any country can access it. For example, a human being in Africa can readily access information on Australian or NSW politics. The result of these large networks on the nation of Australia and its states, is that communication via distance is shortened. Globalisation can be seen as both a good and bad phenomenon. In relation to politics it has transformed communication. Video conferences between leaders from countries of large geographical distance may now communication via technologies such as Skype,[xv] msn messenger and webcam, or on YouTube[xvi] and blogs via video posts. Therefore, the nation and its states are positively affected by globalisation.
The idea of community has changed dramatically in the age of networked digital media. Community may be defined as “a group of people living in a particular local area; common ownership; agreements as to goals; residential district”[xvii] traditional definition of a community has evolved into a blanket definition which now encompasses individuals that are not in the same geographic domain. Therefore, an online community may be defined as “a virtual community, e-community or online community which is a group of people that primarily interact via communication media such as newsletters, telephone, email, internet, social network service or instant messages rather than face-to-face for social, professional, educational or other purposes”[xviii] The idea of community in this age has therefore been transformed, it has changed with society. Examples of communities that match the more modern definition are Facebook[xix] groups, chat features in online multi-player games such as Age of Conan[xx] and actions groups like Greenpeace.[xxi]
The solution proposed for the questionable uses of the internet for politics is as follows: Firstly, restrictions should be made regarding both the nature of political websites and propaganda. Party alliance should be clearly stated at the beginning and end of all motion pictures, and a logo or fine print statement should be included in still images. This labelling of preference will aid the political confusion and undermining marketing tactics taken on by both political parties.
Diagram One: Proportion of Australian Households that have Access to the Internet
http://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/Lookup/4102.0Chapter10002008
[i] No Clean Feed – Stop Internet Censorship in Australia 2009, Andrew Harrison, viewed 10 October 2009, http://nocleanfeed.com
[ii] Justice for Michael Jackson: Liars Must Pay! 2009, Petition Online, viewed 15 October 2009, http://www.petitiononline.com/MICHAELJ/petition.html
[iii] Save Steve’s Place, Australia Zoo Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve 2009, viewed 20 October 2009, http://www.savestevesplace.com/
[iv] Parliament of Australia 2009, viewed 21 October 2009, http://www.aph.gov.au/
[v] NSW Government – State of Opportunity 2009, viewed on 21 October 2009, http://more.nsw.gov.au/
[vi] KevinPM 2009, , Karl Bitar, Sydney Avenue Barton ACT 2600, viewed 19 October 2009, http://www.kevinpm.com.au/
[vii] Australian Review of Public Affairs, Faculty of Economics and Business at The University of Sydney, viewed 17 October 2009, http://www.australianreview.net/
[viii] Twitter 2009, viewed 21 October 2009, http://twitter.com
[ix] Parliament of Australia 2009, viewed 21 October 2009, http://www.aph.gov.au/
[x] Meyer, J 200, Environmentalism and the Interpretation of Western Thought, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA.
[xi] Meyer, J 200, Environmentalism and the Interpretation of Western Thought, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA.
[xii] Mitchell, B 2009, About: Wireless/Networking, LAN, viewed 19 October 2009, http://compnetworking.about.com/cs/lanvlanwan/g/bldef_lan.htm
[xiii] WorldNet Search 3.0, WAN, viewed 15 October 2009, http://wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn?s=wide%20area%20network
[xiv] Microsoft Nine MSN Encarta 2009, viewed 21 October 2009, http://au.encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_1461500353/globalization.html
[xv] Skype – Make Free calls and Great Value Calls on the Internet 2009, viewed 22 October 2009, http://www.skype.com/intl/en/
[xvi] YouTube – Broadcast Yourself 2009, viewed 23 October 2009, http://www.youtube.com/
[xvii] The Free Dictionary, By Farlex 2009,viewed 20 October 2009, http://www.thefreedictionary.com/community
[xviii] Hyper Local Edge, Giving Small Businesses the Edge Online, viewed 16 October 2009, http://hyperlocaledge.com/online-community-management/
[xix] Facebook, viewed 23 October 2009, http://www.facebook.com
[xx] Age of Conan – Hiborian Adventures, viewed 21 October 2009, http://www.ageofconan.com/
[xxi] Greenpeace International 2009, viewed 21 October 2009, http://www.greenpeace.org/international/
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Week 10: Lecture Summary
Good Morning Elite Gold Coasters,
acoverdale here reciting what i absorbed from the New Communication Technology lecture on Thursday Morning. Josh was back with his perspective on "studying video games". He emphasised at the start that 'studying' was the key word, but not to be put off as it would be a fun lecture. He was right! This is what was said:
Why study computer games?
The demographic of gamers was up until 2005 not accurately measured. Traditionally, it was thought that 18-25 year old males were gamers. The Neilsen Active Gaming Study in 2005 confirmed that gamers are actually 25-40 year old males! (This is partly due to the fact that the 18-25 year olds are now grown up into 25-40 year olds).
The different types of games are PC games, Console games, Online games, Arcade games and Mobile games.
Neilsons study in 2005 revealed that while 59% of the market were still 18-25 year old males, 41% were females!
It is also interesting to note that mobile games are dominated by females - as a result of choice in genre.
Arcades are seen as a social phenomenon (a "date" josh joked) that both males and females participate in.
The genres of computer games are first person shooters, strategy, puzzle (moblie phone), fitness (wii) - these appeal to both genders.
In Joshs opinion, games are too much like everyday life in that you have to establish the objectives, learn how to do everything, and obey by the rules/constraints of the game!
"Work, earn, learn".
But, in all seriousness there are 3 different ways to study games:
1. Social Science Approach: Studying the effects of games on people (media effect = violence)
2. Humanities Approach: Studying the meaning and context of games.
3. Industry/Engineering Approach: Development of games and new technologies.
acoverdale here reciting what i absorbed from the New Communication Technology lecture on Thursday Morning. Josh was back with his perspective on "studying video games". He emphasised at the start that 'studying' was the key word, but not to be put off as it would be a fun lecture. He was right! This is what was said:
Why study computer games?
The demographic of gamers was up until 2005 not accurately measured. Traditionally, it was thought that 18-25 year old males were gamers. The Neilsen Active Gaming Study in 2005 confirmed that gamers are actually 25-40 year old males! (This is partly due to the fact that the 18-25 year olds are now grown up into 25-40 year olds).
The different types of games are PC games, Console games, Online games, Arcade games and Mobile games.
Neilsons study in 2005 revealed that while 59% of the market were still 18-25 year old males, 41% were females!
It is also interesting to note that mobile games are dominated by females - as a result of choice in genre.
Arcades are seen as a social phenomenon (a "date" josh joked) that both males and females participate in.
The genres of computer games are first person shooters, strategy, puzzle (moblie phone), fitness (wii) - these appeal to both genders.
In Joshs opinion, games are too much like everyday life in that you have to establish the objectives, learn how to do everything, and obey by the rules/constraints of the game!
"Work, earn, learn".
But, in all seriousness there are 3 different ways to study games:
1. Social Science Approach: Studying the effects of games on people (media effect = violence)
2. Humanities Approach: Studying the meaning and context of games.
3. Industry/Engineering Approach: Development of games and new technologies.
Week 10: Tutorial Task
acoverdale here with the week 10 happenings of New Com Tech 09.
This week students frantically finished their blogs, everyone swamped with up to 4 assessment peices due. I have chosen essay topic 4. It seems long, but with some word economy I can make it work. In a final evaluation of the course, I enjoyed it as it was mostly computer based, but i think marking the blogs every 3 or 4 weeks would have been more effective as students would not fall so far behind.
til next time,
XOXO
acoverdale.
This week students frantically finished their blogs, everyone swamped with up to 4 assessment peices due. I have chosen essay topic 4. It seems long, but with some word economy I can make it work. In a final evaluation of the course, I enjoyed it as it was mostly computer based, but i think marking the blogs every 3 or 4 weeks would have been more effective as students would not fall so far behind.
til next time,
XOXO
acoverdale.
Week 9: Lecture Summary
Good Morning,
Another exciting Thursday morning lecture with Jason - definetely worth driving an hour up the coast for!
This week we discussed how to use software, in particular Adobe Flash.
The steps:
1. Establish what you have to do (task).
2. eg MS paint wont do (explore indusry standards).
3. Begin by playing (make something).
4. Common features (eg arrow, magnifying glass, bucket)
5. Save your work continuously and under a differnt name eg 'Ass1, the Ass2'.
6. Use the help file.
7. If the above failed you, use Google.
8. If the above failed, use tutorial books/videos but DO NOT BUY THEM.
9. Don't take a course - teach yourself!
Another exciting Thursday morning lecture with Jason - definetely worth driving an hour up the coast for!
This week we discussed how to use software, in particular Adobe Flash.
The steps:
1. Establish what you have to do (task).
2. eg MS paint wont do (explore indusry standards).
3. Begin by playing (make something).
4. Common features (eg arrow, magnifying glass, bucket)
5. Save your work continuously and under a differnt name eg 'Ass1, the Ass2'.
6. Use the help file.
7. If the above failed you, use Google.
8. If the above failed, use tutorial books/videos but DO NOT BUY THEM.
9. Don't take a course - teach yourself!
Week 9: Tutorial Task
acoverdale here with some artwork I did back at school: don't laugh I am proud of them!
enjoy!
XOXO
This is my year 12 textiles major - a memories wall hanging. The tree is made from felt and then leaves are made by layering fabric memories such as my dance costumes and primary and secondary school uniforms.
enjoy!
XOXO
This is a still life of a green paint bottle, created with watercolours and charcoal when I was 14.
This is my year 12 textiles major - a memories wall hanging. The tree is made from felt and then leaves are made by layering fabric memories such as my dance costumes and primary and secondary school uniforms.
Week 8: Lecture Summary
Stephen Stockwell delivered this long but very interesting lecture on democracy, censorship and the concept of 'cyberpunk'.
Firstly we reviewed what democracy actually means:
Defining Democracy -
the end point of mankinds idealogical evolution and the final form of human government.... riiiiight. In my own words, democracy means freedom of choice, and a government/parliament that has been fairly elected.
E-democracy is the internet's intervention and contribution to real world politics.
Cyber Politics is the politics that exists on the internet (as opposed to e-democracy which exists in reality).
Representative Democracy is the product of nations alive in the industrial age. It has broadened in recent times, in terms of government in social and economic affairs, but has also become narrower in that there are fewer opportunities to have freedom of speech.
I honestly cannot express the following paragraph any better than what is said here:
"The gap between the simple promises of representative democracy and the complexity encountered in making it work may help explain why the near universal acceptance of democracy is accompanied by an high level of ambivalence about the political process: while around eighty percent of adults in Australia and the USA express an interest in politics no more than half the adult population of the USA follow public affairs in the mass media and where voting is voluntary (in parts of Australian local government for example) at most forty percent, and as few as five percent vote in elections."
Direct democracy is where all citizens have a right and a duty to participate in society, vote and to make the system work.
Next, we listened to the percieved flaws with society and how it is reported on.
Gaps in the Mass Media -
Concentration and commercialisation of mass media has limited opportunities for participation in present democratic governments. The public sphere is where public opinions are formed. It includes coffee houses and newspapers. The above mentioned commercialisation saw the transformation of the public sphere from the journalism of privat people to "the consumer services of the mass media". My Journalism Lecturer said that the 19th century changed news and the way it was reported on forever. Democratic possibilities on the Internet such as viruses and the free flow of information also occured. We then discusses audience reception and how the mass media impacts severly on what is reported on. My Journalism lecturer also says that it is the Fourth Estate Role of journalists to report on people, and keep the government in check. People report on the lives of people.
Free Speech and Sensorship -
"Is free speech a basic right?" was the most important point of this section. There is an ongoing battle between free speech and censorship.
Citizen Hacker: Doing Global Democracy -
Hackers have a bad name in society, for the things that have gone wrong (lost information, stolen information and interception of secret information). The word hacking has a number of meanings: cutting through thick foliage or coping with a difficult situation. Hackers seek to free information (see my week 4 post) and search for programming solutions beyond what others would.
Cyberpunk -
Cyberpunk is a genre based on the science-fiction and hi-tech world. William Gibson wrote fictional work conveying all the above concepts. His works are not always understood in the first instance but are remarkable nonetheless.
**Cyberpunk themes:
1.Technology and Mythology
2.Utopia and Dystopia
3.Cities as machines
4.Technological change
5. Modernism to Postmodernism
Firstly we reviewed what democracy actually means:
Defining Democracy -
the end point of mankinds idealogical evolution and the final form of human government.... riiiiight. In my own words, democracy means freedom of choice, and a government/parliament that has been fairly elected.
E-democracy is the internet's intervention and contribution to real world politics.
Cyber Politics is the politics that exists on the internet (as opposed to e-democracy which exists in reality).
Representative Democracy is the product of nations alive in the industrial age. It has broadened in recent times, in terms of government in social and economic affairs, but has also become narrower in that there are fewer opportunities to have freedom of speech.
I honestly cannot express the following paragraph any better than what is said here:
"The gap between the simple promises of representative democracy and the complexity encountered in making it work may help explain why the near universal acceptance of democracy is accompanied by an high level of ambivalence about the political process: while around eighty percent of adults in Australia and the USA express an interest in politics no more than half the adult population of the USA follow public affairs in the mass media and where voting is voluntary (in parts of Australian local government for example) at most forty percent, and as few as five percent vote in elections."
Direct democracy is where all citizens have a right and a duty to participate in society, vote and to make the system work.
Next, we listened to the percieved flaws with society and how it is reported on.
Gaps in the Mass Media -
Concentration and commercialisation of mass media has limited opportunities for participation in present democratic governments. The public sphere is where public opinions are formed. It includes coffee houses and newspapers. The above mentioned commercialisation saw the transformation of the public sphere from the journalism of privat people to "the consumer services of the mass media". My Journalism Lecturer said that the 19th century changed news and the way it was reported on forever. Democratic possibilities on the Internet such as viruses and the free flow of information also occured. We then discusses audience reception and how the mass media impacts severly on what is reported on. My Journalism lecturer also says that it is the Fourth Estate Role of journalists to report on people, and keep the government in check. People report on the lives of people.
Free Speech and Sensorship -
"Is free speech a basic right?" was the most important point of this section. There is an ongoing battle between free speech and censorship.
Citizen Hacker: Doing Global Democracy -
Hackers have a bad name in society, for the things that have gone wrong (lost information, stolen information and interception of secret information). The word hacking has a number of meanings: cutting through thick foliage or coping with a difficult situation. Hackers seek to free information (see my week 4 post) and search for programming solutions beyond what others would.
Cyberpunk -
Cyberpunk is a genre based on the science-fiction and hi-tech world. William Gibson wrote fictional work conveying all the above concepts. His works are not always understood in the first instance but are remarkable nonetheless.
**Cyberpunk themes:
1.Technology and Mythology
2.Utopia and Dystopia
3.Cities as machines
4.Technological change
5. Modernism to Postmodernism
Week 7: Lecture Summary
Good Morning and Welcome to Week 7!
acoverdale here recapping the lecture.
WOW.
Jason is a breath of fresh air!!
We discussed the concepts of open source software, portable applications, bit torrents, freeware, viruses and secret technologies.
This is write I can reveal:
Bit torrents are basically downloading software, but are considered more reliable than limewire or frostwire. Mini Nova was Jason's pick.
Open source software occurs when the software is not finalised, but is released to the public usually via internet, to add or criticise.
Closed software is like Microsoft Word, you have to buy and, cannot alter it in any way.
Portableapps.com was a recommended website for applications that you can store on your usb, for example gimp or blender.
Microsoft and Adobe are the monopoly or main owners and manufacturers of software.
Freeware is open coded software in which anybody can access the complete version for free, an exmaple of this is the word-like program Open Office. (Let me just add in my past experiences with open office word and powerpoint - the copy is never as good as the original).
Jason also let on a scary fact - when you delete a file, you are just deleting the file name and freeing up the space it was taking, you are not actually erasing the file from your computer.
His recommended websites are freewaregenuis.com, sourceforge.com and download.com.
This all sounds terrific. BUT (depressing piano do duh dum music).. there are problems; viruses!
Viruses can spread more freely in freeware software and open source software. Another problem or downside of using a software provider other than Microsoft is that there is no cutomer support or virus control methods.
Another new concept discussed at the end of the lecture was Microcharging on mobile cell phones. To play games, or go on some applications related to social networking sites you may have to pay by the minute.
til next week,
acoverdale
XOXO
acoverdale here recapping the lecture.
WOW.
Jason is a breath of fresh air!!
We discussed the concepts of open source software, portable applications, bit torrents, freeware, viruses and secret technologies.
This is write I can reveal:
Bit torrents are basically downloading software, but are considered more reliable than limewire or frostwire. Mini Nova was Jason's pick.
Open source software occurs when the software is not finalised, but is released to the public usually via internet, to add or criticise.
Closed software is like Microsoft Word, you have to buy and, cannot alter it in any way.
Portableapps.com was a recommended website for applications that you can store on your usb, for example gimp or blender.
Microsoft and Adobe are the monopoly or main owners and manufacturers of software.
Freeware is open coded software in which anybody can access the complete version for free, an exmaple of this is the word-like program Open Office. (Let me just add in my past experiences with open office word and powerpoint - the copy is never as good as the original).
Jason also let on a scary fact - when you delete a file, you are just deleting the file name and freeing up the space it was taking, you are not actually erasing the file from your computer.
His recommended websites are freewaregenuis.com, sourceforge.com and download.com.
This all sounds terrific. BUT (depressing piano do duh dum music).. there are problems; viruses!
Viruses can spread more freely in freeware software and open source software. Another problem or downside of using a software provider other than Microsoft is that there is no cutomer support or virus control methods.
Another new concept discussed at the end of the lecture was Microcharging on mobile cell phones. To play games, or go on some applications related to social networking sites you may have to pay by the minute.
til next week,
acoverdale
XOXO
Week 7: Tutorial Task
This week was our second week with JASON!
acoverdale here with the tasks set by Jason Nelson.
Freeware Apps.
I downloaded gimp, but found it frustrating as photoshop has so many more gadgets and filters. I will keep it on my usb though as a useful device for resizing photos or turning them into black and white... It make me think that having something like that for your phone would be amazing!
Next, I tried aMSN portable, to see if it was any different to normal msn. It failed miserably. After two download attempts it still did not seem to open properly or recognise my contacts.
Needless to say I was not very impressed with the apps I tried but will keep the website in mind for future software related dilemmas!
til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale.
acoverdale here with the tasks set by Jason Nelson.
Freeware Apps.
I downloaded gimp, but found it frustrating as photoshop has so many more gadgets and filters. I will keep it on my usb though as a useful device for resizing photos or turning them into black and white... It make me think that having something like that for your phone would be amazing!
Next, I tried aMSN portable, to see if it was any different to normal msn. It failed miserably. After two download attempts it still did not seem to open properly or recognise my contacts.
Needless to say I was not very impressed with the apps I tried but will keep the website in mind for future software related dilemmas!
til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Week 6: Lecture Summary
Hi there Gold Coasters!
(has anyone see the film UP? where the dog says "hi there!" - very amusing)
anyway, acoverdale here with the happenings of week 6.
We discussed Consumption and Production, and what it means to consume and produce media, products, anything really. We consume products of the media, content that has been professionally designed to captivate and interest us.
An example of this is in the 'Big Screen', for example at the cinemas or while watcing televison, we are passive consumers of content shown to us.
In the 'Small Screen' of life, mobile phones keep us constantly aware of and consuming the media surrounding us.
Fan-films and Fan-edits are another instance of consumption. When Star Wars fans produced the fan-film"TROOPS", it was consumed by Star Wars fans.
News Junkies also consume news then reproduce it for our interest/entertainment.
The above forms of consumption are beginning to filter through mobile phones, but are not entirely successful as they do not look or sound as clear as other mediums.
(has anyone see the film UP? where the dog says "hi there!" - very amusing)
anyway, acoverdale here with the happenings of week 6.
We discussed Consumption and Production, and what it means to consume and produce media, products, anything really. We consume products of the media, content that has been professionally designed to captivate and interest us.
An example of this is in the 'Big Screen', for example at the cinemas or while watcing televison, we are passive consumers of content shown to us.
In the 'Small Screen' of life, mobile phones keep us constantly aware of and consuming the media surrounding us.
Fan-films and Fan-edits are another instance of consumption. When Star Wars fans produced the fan-film"TROOPS", it was consumed by Star Wars fans.
News Junkies also consume news then reproduce it for our interest/entertainment.
The above forms of consumption are beginning to filter through mobile phones, but are not entirely successful as they do not look or sound as clear as other mediums.
Week 6: Tutorial Task
Goodafternoon bloggers,
acoverdale here,
i have included both NCT's posts 'Week 5/6" and "This is to be worked through by the end of week 6" in this post.
Firstly, three internet delivered short films:
*THE EMBED TOOL DID NOT WORK I TRIED IT ON THREE DIFFERENT COMPUTERS AND WITH ALL MY VIDEOS, THIS IS WHY THE LINKS ARE JUST PROVIDED*
Number One:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AxtGqKT-Tw
This College Humour Film is a humerous enactment of a boy meeting his gf's parents - only to find out they are complete 'L33TS' or very technologically savvy people. I picked this film because it is short, amusing/entertaining, and has many geat camera shots such as the close up and medium shot, and great angles such as the low angle (looking up at the daughter on the stairs).
Number Two:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_xy7am7cRI&feature=channel
My second film was chosen beacause it uses very few camera angles and shots, mostly close up and medium, but is still captivating. I like how the background noise is included.
Number Three:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plSc68nZWN4&feature=channel
My imaginary friend is a humerous but sad film clip detailing what happens to your childhood imaginary friends. I chose it because it uses both real life and animation imagery, a soothing voice, and many different camera angles.
Google Map:
http://maps.google.com.au/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&ll=-28.17281,153.549728&spn=0.077781,0.15398&z=13&msid=109316129290103342405.0004757a16a56d51de39f
Persona:
acoverdale here,
i have included both NCT's posts 'Week 5/6" and "This is to be worked through by the end of week 6" in this post.
Firstly, three internet delivered short films:
*THE EMBED TOOL DID NOT WORK I TRIED IT ON THREE DIFFERENT COMPUTERS AND WITH ALL MY VIDEOS, THIS IS WHY THE LINKS ARE JUST PROVIDED*
Number One:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AxtGqKT-Tw
This College Humour Film is a humerous enactment of a boy meeting his gf's parents - only to find out they are complete 'L33TS' or very technologically savvy people. I picked this film because it is short, amusing/entertaining, and has many geat camera shots such as the close up and medium shot, and great angles such as the low angle (looking up at the daughter on the stairs).
Number Two:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_xy7am7cRI&feature=channel
My second film was chosen beacause it uses very few camera angles and shots, mostly close up and medium, but is still captivating. I like how the background noise is included.
Number Three:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plSc68nZWN4&feature=channel
My imaginary friend is a humerous but sad film clip detailing what happens to your childhood imaginary friends. I chose it because it uses both real life and animation imagery, a soothing voice, and many different camera angles.
Google Map:
http://maps.google.com.au/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&ll=-28.17281,153.549728&spn=0.077781,0.15398&z=13&msid=109316129290103342405.0004757a16a56d51de39f
Persona:
Interaction with 5 websites:
1. Vampire Rave - I made an account and did a few missions but did not like the way you were constantly ranked and judged! I will stick to facebook for "friends".
2.Polyvore - gave me the best ideas! I was very inspired by this website.
Week 5: Lecture Summary
Good Morning Upper East Siders - just kidding.
acoverdale here.
This weeks' lecture was delivered by Jason Nelson - a breath of fresh air to the subject! Nerdy, but modern and down to earth, he held everyone's attention and even made us laugh. He started by showing us the 'speed net test', then covered a brief history of the 'Dot Com Boom' - and its deimise! (Basically everyone caught wind of the internet, and all tried to access it at once). The internet was essentially stil new so experimentation was invested in. Jason then explained how Yahoo and Microsoft are now Google's rivals. He then moved on to a popular topic amoungst us all - social networking sites. The internet is becoming full of new Content Manager Systems - inexpensive webspace. This allows virtually anyone to build a site such as Myspace or Twitter or maintain a blog like us. Is this a good thing? Jason also explained the way in which SNS's fluctuate with users ("friends"/"followers") and how we were all addicted to Myspace, the obsessed with Facebook and are now spending all our time on Twitter... WHAT NEXT?! We then looked at EDIS, a Hungarian government map showing emergency disasters and world hazards as they happen.
'United Breaks Guitars' was an amusing music clip about United Airlines breaking an expensive guitar.
til next week,
XOXO,
acoverdale
acoverdale here.
This weeks' lecture was delivered by Jason Nelson - a breath of fresh air to the subject! Nerdy, but modern and down to earth, he held everyone's attention and even made us laugh. He started by showing us the 'speed net test', then covered a brief history of the 'Dot Com Boom' - and its deimise! (Basically everyone caught wind of the internet, and all tried to access it at once). The internet was essentially stil new so experimentation was invested in. Jason then explained how Yahoo and Microsoft are now Google's rivals. He then moved on to a popular topic amoungst us all - social networking sites. The internet is becoming full of new Content Manager Systems - inexpensive webspace. This allows virtually anyone to build a site such as Myspace or Twitter or maintain a blog like us. Is this a good thing? Jason also explained the way in which SNS's fluctuate with users ("friends"/"followers") and how we were all addicted to Myspace, the obsessed with Facebook and are now spending all our time on Twitter... WHAT NEXT?! We then looked at EDIS, a Hungarian government map showing emergency disasters and world hazards as they happen.
'United Breaks Guitars' was an amusing music clip about United Airlines breaking an expensive guitar.
til next week,
XOXO,
acoverdale
Week 5: Tutorial Task
GA (good afternoon) GC's (gold coasters),
acoverdale here with a new outlook on life, its called tonsilitis and glandula fever.
"here" being my bedroom, and the abreviations are due to the fact i can only spend little amounts of time on the computer at a time (due to extreme tiredness).
Fear not, i will continue to update your favourite blog with the scandalous happenings (lectures and tute activities) of NCT 09. Luckily enough this week was a catchup to make sure all activites are completed!
til next weeek,
acoverdale
XOXO
acoverdale here with a new outlook on life, its called tonsilitis and glandula fever.
"here" being my bedroom, and the abreviations are due to the fact i can only spend little amounts of time on the computer at a time (due to extreme tiredness).
Fear not, i will continue to update your favourite blog with the scandalous happenings (lectures and tute activities) of NCT 09. Luckily enough this week was a catchup to make sure all activites are completed!
til next weeek,
acoverdale
XOXO
Week 4: Lecture Summary
Hi there bloggers,
acoverdale here giving you the inside scoop on NCT 09. I must say after looking at the two uploads of lecture notes to learning at griffith i am just going to post what i have handwritten in my notebook!
The Big Screen to the Small Screen:
1895 was the birth of cinema, the moving image. Fast forward to 1906, the first feature length narrative film of Ned Kelly was made. cFast forward again to 1927, which saw dialogue recorded and played alongside the action - "talkies". Two years later the first all colour film 'on with the show' was produced. 1933 was the year of the first drive in theatre!! In 1937 Disney released an animated Snow White film which was the first commercially released movie with colour and sound. Then, in 1939 Television was introduced at the New York Trade Fair. 1952 saw 3D technology emerge. And in 1955 Hollywood sold back catologues of movies to television (they were old pre released films of course - AND they didnt realise at the time but Hollywood should have sold them to cable first to make more money). The next year Ampex made the first two inch reel of tape used to record movies on (VTR). In 1959, Percepto Vision was invented which sent a mild electric shock to one chair in the cinema (called a nickolodeon because it was a nickle to enter) with the hope that that person would scream and so would others around them.
Then came 1963, the year both my parents were born and the year of the first consumer VTR. Also in this big year multiplex cinemas (with two cinema screens) and blockbuster movies (which screened more than one film at a time were invented - box office results skyrocketed). In 1967 Sony introduced VCR and portapack which allowed independant film makers the chance to work freelance. In 1970 Imax was invented and screens became smaller, towards the TV we have today. 1972 brought Pay TV to America. In 1985 the first blockbuster videoshop opened. Then in 1986 a CGI fully animated short film by Pixar called LUXO JR was released. Fast forward to 1995 when Toystory, the second CGI film from Pixar was made. Then in 1997 DVD was invented (no more video tapes!) Then... THE INTERNET (do doo doooo - piano doom sound). The internet and Hollywood did not connect very well - movies began appearing without license or permission. In 2002, Internet films, BMW short films like the driver which we watched and i like very much, and TROOPS (a take off of Starwars and Cops both of which i have not seen so did not understand very well.. but i did like the backdrop effects of the desert)
til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale
acoverdale here giving you the inside scoop on NCT 09. I must say after looking at the two uploads of lecture notes to learning at griffith i am just going to post what i have handwritten in my notebook!
The Big Screen to the Small Screen:
1895 was the birth of cinema, the moving image. Fast forward to 1906, the first feature length narrative film of Ned Kelly was made. cFast forward again to 1927, which saw dialogue recorded and played alongside the action - "talkies". Two years later the first all colour film 'on with the show' was produced. 1933 was the year of the first drive in theatre!! In 1937 Disney released an animated Snow White film which was the first commercially released movie with colour and sound. Then, in 1939 Television was introduced at the New York Trade Fair. 1952 saw 3D technology emerge. And in 1955 Hollywood sold back catologues of movies to television (they were old pre released films of course - AND they didnt realise at the time but Hollywood should have sold them to cable first to make more money). The next year Ampex made the first two inch reel of tape used to record movies on (VTR). In 1959, Percepto Vision was invented which sent a mild electric shock to one chair in the cinema (called a nickolodeon because it was a nickle to enter) with the hope that that person would scream and so would others around them.
Then came 1963, the year both my parents were born and the year of the first consumer VTR. Also in this big year multiplex cinemas (with two cinema screens) and blockbuster movies (which screened more than one film at a time were invented - box office results skyrocketed). In 1967 Sony introduced VCR and portapack which allowed independant film makers the chance to work freelance. In 1970 Imax was invented and screens became smaller, towards the TV we have today. 1972 brought Pay TV to America. In 1985 the first blockbuster videoshop opened. Then in 1986 a CGI fully animated short film by Pixar called LUXO JR was released. Fast forward to 1995 when Toystory, the second CGI film from Pixar was made. Then in 1997 DVD was invented (no more video tapes!) Then... THE INTERNET (do doo doooo - piano doom sound). The internet and Hollywood did not connect very well - movies began appearing without license or permission. In 2002, Internet films, BMW short films like the driver which we watched and i like very much, and TROOPS (a take off of Starwars and Cops both of which i have not seen so did not understand very well.. but i did like the backdrop effects of the desert)
til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Week 4: Tutorial Task
acoverdale here (actually here in class!) with the excitement of nct (and of being back on campus) as we engage in a virtual scavenger hunt without google or wiki - oh dear i hear you say. But all is not lost, L and J seem pretty confident we can do it.
The Challenges:
1. What is the weight of the world's biggest pumpkin? How long did it take to grow?
606.7 KG. According to my little brothers Guinness World Records Book 2005.
3. What is the length of a giraffe's tongue?
A giraffe's tongue is 18 to 20 inches (46 to 50 centimeters). http://www.ask.com/bar?q=length+of+a+giraffe%27s+tongue&page=1&qsrc=19&ab=0&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sandiegozoo.org%2Fanimalbytes%2Ft-giraffe.html
6. When was the original 'Hacker's Manifesto' written?
January 8, 1986 - written by 'the mentor'. http://www.ask.com/bar?q=Hacker%27s+Manifesto&page=1&qsrc=0&ab=5&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.angelfire.com%2Flinux%2FFreedomUnlimited%2Fmanifesto.html
9. What song was top of the Australian Pop Charts this week in 1965?
Shakin all over my Normie and the Playboys - also thanks to my little brothers talents.
10. Which Brisbane band includes Stephen Stockwell on keyboards and vocals?
The Challenges:
1. What is the weight of the world's biggest pumpkin? How long did it take to grow?
606.7 KG. According to my little brothers Guinness World Records Book 2005.
2. What is the best way (quickest, most reliable) to contact Lilly Allen?
Her website. Even though it is not a specific means eg twitter, it has contact information, and links to her myspace, facebook, twitter, youtube, bebo, lastfm, wikipedia and blog.
Her website. Even though it is not a specific means eg twitter, it has contact information, and links to her myspace, facebook, twitter, youtube, bebo, lastfm, wikipedia and blog.
3. What is the length of a giraffe's tongue?
A giraffe's tongue is 18 to 20 inches (46 to 50 centimeters). http://www.ask.com/bar?q=length+of+a+giraffe%27s+tongue&page=1&qsrc=19&ab=0&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sandiegozoo.org%2Fanimalbytes%2Ft-giraffe.html
4. How would you define the word 'glycomics'? In your own words, what does it really mean ? What does the term 'seagull manager' refer to?
Glycomics is the comprehensive study of glycomes (the entire complement of sugars of an organism. Glycomics "is the systematic study of all glycan structures of an organism. The term glycomics is derived from the chemical prefix for sweetness or a sugar, "glyco-", and was formed to follow the naming convention established by genomics which deals with genes.
The term seagull manager refers to a transient, highly critical manager whose interaction with the workforce consists of arriving, criticising, everything and everybody harshly and leaving again. http://uk.encarta.msn.com/dictionary_1481585101/seagull_manager.html
Another definition stated it is a manager who flies in, makes a lot of noise, craps on everything and then leaves. http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=segull+manager
5. What was David Cronenberg's first feature film? Which of his films Had 'Blondie' in it?
"Shivers", orginally advertised as "It came from within". 'Blondie' (Debbie Harry) starred in "Videodrome".
5. What was David Cronenberg's first feature film? Which of his films Had 'Blondie' in it?
"Shivers", orginally advertised as "It came from within". 'Blondie' (Debbie Harry) starred in "Videodrome".
6. When was the original 'Hacker's Manifesto' written?
January 8, 1986 - written by 'the mentor'. http://www.ask.com/bar?q=Hacker%27s+Manifesto&page=1&qsrc=0&ab=5&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.angelfire.com%2Flinux%2FFreedomUnlimited%2Fmanifesto.html
7. Why do phone numbers in Hollywood films start with '555'?
http://www.ask.com/bar?q=hollywood+phone+number+555&page=1&qsrc=2417&ab=2&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.telephonecollecting.org%2Fcode.htm
http://www.ask.com/bar?q=hollywood+phone+number+555&page=1&qsrc=2417&ab=2&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.telephonecollecting.org%2Fcode.htm
8. What is the cheapest form of travel from the Gold Coast to Sydney?
After my little brother suggested riding a bike, the cheapest way is definetely Jetstar's 5c flights.
After my little brother suggested riding a bike, the cheapest way is definetely Jetstar's 5c flights.
9. What song was top of the Australian Pop Charts this week in 1965?
Shakin all over my Normie and the Playboys - also thanks to my little brothers talents.
10. Which Brisbane band includes Stephen Stockwell on keyboards and vocals?
The Black Assassins.
http://www.ask.com/bar?q=brisbane+band+stephen+stockwell+on+keyboard+and+vocals&page=1&qsrc=2417&ab=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fweb.revolutionrock.com.au%2Foral-hist%2Findex.php%3Fid%3D24
Week 3: Lecture Summary
Good afternoon, acoverdale here reporting on the exciting happenings of Thursday morning. The lecture got off to a bumpy technological start, but J (little J?) was patient.
Shot sizes:
VLS/WS Very Long Shot/Wide Shot
LS Long Shot
MLS Medium Long Shot
MS Midshot
MCU Medium Close Up
CU Close up
BCU Big Close Up
ECU Extreme Close Up
Shots as words:
Who? - The closeup answers this.
What? - The midshot shows the 'what' doing whatever it is that the 'what' is doing.
Where? - Long Shot shows this.
When? - Wide shot and Close up are both useful to show places and time passing.
Why? - The Big Close up reveals all
How? - A series of Close ups can explain this.
Head room, Talking room, and Rule of Thirds:
Allowing enough head room is important so that your character's head is not cut off or cut out of the shot.
Also, allowing enough talking room so that the character and their mouth can be seen is essential.
The rule of thirds ensures the character is taking up at least two thirds of the picture - this is measured by the intersections of the lines, it must cross through four points.
The 180 degree rule:
This rule ensures that the audience always knows who is speaking, see the diagram page 13 of the lecture notes for further annotations, but basically the way in which you position the camera affects the audiences perception of who is in the frame and who is talking.
*Inserts and cutaways are used to provide extra information about a scene.
*Making a statement is important.
til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale
Shot sizes:
VLS/WS Very Long Shot/Wide Shot
LS Long Shot
MLS Medium Long Shot
MS Midshot
MCU Medium Close Up
CU Close up
BCU Big Close Up
ECU Extreme Close Up
Shots as words:
Who? - The closeup answers this.
What? - The midshot shows the 'what' doing whatever it is that the 'what' is doing.
Where? - Long Shot shows this.
When? - Wide shot and Close up are both useful to show places and time passing.
Why? - The Big Close up reveals all
How? - A series of Close ups can explain this.
Head room, Talking room, and Rule of Thirds:
Allowing enough head room is important so that your character's head is not cut off or cut out of the shot.
Also, allowing enough talking room so that the character and their mouth can be seen is essential.
The rule of thirds ensures the character is taking up at least two thirds of the picture - this is measured by the intersections of the lines, it must cross through four points.
The 180 degree rule:
This rule ensures that the audience always knows who is speaking, see the diagram page 13 of the lecture notes for further annotations, but basically the way in which you position the camera affects the audiences perception of who is in the frame and who is talking.
*Inserts and cutaways are used to provide extra information about a scene.
*Making a statement is important.
til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale
Week 3: Tutorial Task
acoverdale here keeping you up to date with new com tech 09 (as well as one can keep others up to date when she is in bed STILL with the flu, unable to make it to class)...
Language of the screen:
On intial search many blogspot blogs fill the results, sorry guys i must remain credible and reliable in the information posted.
VLS/WS - A wide shot is where the figure is shown in relation to thier surroundings.
MS - A medium shot is where the body is shown from the waist upwards.
MCU - A medium close up shot shows throat, neck and head.
CU - A close up is simply just a persons head.
ECU - An extreme close up just focuses on the eye.
Who - Serena Van der Woodsen.
What - Her return after mysterious disappearance to boarding school.
Where - Grand Central Station.
When - In the holidays.
Why - She figures everything would have blown over/misses her brother.
How - Gossip Girl.
til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale.
Language of the screen:
On intial search many blogspot blogs fill the results, sorry guys i must remain credible and reliable in the information posted.
VLS/WS - A wide shot is where the figure is shown in relation to thier surroundings.
LS - A long shot occurs when the subject is shown in a small scale.
MS - A medium shot is where the body is shown from the waist upwards.
MCU - A medium close up shot shows throat, neck and head.
CU - A close up is simply just a persons head.
ECU - An extreme close up just focuses on the eye.
Next task, identify the who, what, where, when, why and how of a television program.
I though you would never ask... Gossip Girl Season One - Episode One.
I though you would never ask... Gossip Girl Season One - Episode One.
Who - Serena Van der Woodsen.
What - Her return after mysterious disappearance to boarding school.
Where - Grand Central Station.
When - In the holidays.
Why - She figures everything would have blown over/misses her brother.
How - Gossip Girl.
til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale.
Week 2: Lecture Summary
acoverdale here, updating you on the second week of New Com Tech09!
Thursday's lecture topic was dry, but made bareable by Prf. Stephen Stockwell's outstanding background knowledge and interest in computer history. This is what was said:
Babbage, Turing and the birth of 'THE COMPUTER':
The first 'computer' wasa mechanical device invented by Charles Babbage in the 19th century and served the purpose of mathematics calculations only. Ada Byron then improved the computer to compose and play music, and to be of everyday use. The next innovation was conceived by Alan Turing, who developed the machine to decipher German codes in WW1. Fast forward 20 or so years to 1950 when IBM began comercially producing computers - large, expensive devices that were not seen as a necessity by all.
Xerox PARC, Apple and the PC:
Xerox-PARC released the first PC, but it didnt have a language (needed for interaction from humans). Bill Gates (a very young and poor Bill Gates!) wrote the first program for the computer and named in BASIC. In order to market this program he began a small company called Microsoft.
Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak are the creaters of Apple. They began the company by producing a small circuit board called 'Apple 1', and sold them to people interested in creating the software. They then produced the 'Apple 2' - which sold beyond belief. In 1979 then bought a computer program called Visicalc, and the PC became a powerful business tool.
Meanwhile, IBM continued to produce mainframe's, determined to enter the PC market. They bought Microsoft, an operating system from Bill Gates, and eventually after several complications, the 'language' needed to run the system was too aquired.
At the same time this was occuring, Apple launched thier Graphic User Interface - thinking this would secure their position as market leader. IBM quickly caught on and released thier own version, titled Windows.
In 1991, Linus Torvalds invented another operating system to compete with the existing. Linus approached the invention in an unorthodox manner, by posting his ideas and discoveries on the internet so as to have maximum help and input. Eventually he created GNU/Linux, which is a combination of Free Software Foundations's GNU, and his own.
The Internet, the Web and Cyberspace:
The internet is a network of networks, often called internetwork. The networks include servers, mainframe's and PC's, loosely connected through the telephone system. The idea of 'internet', came from a business named RAND, who believed they could create a network of systems that could outlast a nuclear war as it has not central base and can easily be relocated. The US Department of Defence founded this research and project, which quickly escalated into a problem as email, hackers and MUD's (multiple user domains) took over.
The World Wide Web, or WWW as it is often referred to, is a use of the internet. The web includes all websites people have posted around the world - all written in HTML (Hyper-Text Markup Language). Websites are easily accessible through 'browsers' such as Internet Explorer, which essentially read the HTML and translate it into commands and the English language. It is important to note that the internet is a collection of computers, every website on the internet is a collection of files, and when we use a web browers such as Internet Explorer we are looking at those webpages of files.
Cyberspace is a conceptual space, where words, relationships, data, wealth and power are manifested by people using computer language.
Early Internet Applications:
Email is a virtual system, which sends documents from one disperser to one or mulitple receivers. Mail Software Systems, and Webmail eg Hotmail are the programs in which people hold and view their mail. Email is asynchronus in that emails are sent, but not always received, and not always read on time, it is a one way burst of information.
File Transfer Protocol is uploading photos or data directly from your computer to the web. File transfers using this method are quicker than downloading directly through a browser.
Internet Relay Chat in its most common forms exists as chat rooms. People can type to each other in sychronus style, that is receive a reply instantly. With IRC you can exist in cyberspace as seperate identity.
MUD's:
Multiple user dungeons, such as WOW, were the first online games with many multiple users. There are limited pictures and actions take place by typing words. For example when you enter a room, you are told in words what is happening in the room and who you are with.
More Recent Internet Applications:
Some modern applications include Instant Messaging, Twitter, Myspace and Facebook.
I have also included one of my favourite youtube vidoes on the topic of 'The Internet' - please watch it as it is quite funny :)
Thursday's lecture topic was dry, but made bareable by Prf. Stephen Stockwell's outstanding background knowledge and interest in computer history. This is what was said:
Babbage, Turing and the birth of 'THE COMPUTER':
The first 'computer' wasa mechanical device invented by Charles Babbage in the 19th century and served the purpose of mathematics calculations only. Ada Byron then improved the computer to compose and play music, and to be of everyday use. The next innovation was conceived by Alan Turing, who developed the machine to decipher German codes in WW1. Fast forward 20 or so years to 1950 when IBM began comercially producing computers - large, expensive devices that were not seen as a necessity by all.
Xerox PARC, Apple and the PC:
Xerox-PARC released the first PC, but it didnt have a language (needed for interaction from humans). Bill Gates (a very young and poor Bill Gates!) wrote the first program for the computer and named in BASIC. In order to market this program he began a small company called Microsoft.
Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak are the creaters of Apple. They began the company by producing a small circuit board called 'Apple 1', and sold them to people interested in creating the software. They then produced the 'Apple 2' - which sold beyond belief. In 1979 then bought a computer program called Visicalc, and the PC became a powerful business tool.
Meanwhile, IBM continued to produce mainframe's, determined to enter the PC market. They bought Microsoft, an operating system from Bill Gates, and eventually after several complications, the 'language' needed to run the system was too aquired.
At the same time this was occuring, Apple launched thier Graphic User Interface - thinking this would secure their position as market leader. IBM quickly caught on and released thier own version, titled Windows.
In 1991, Linus Torvalds invented another operating system to compete with the existing. Linus approached the invention in an unorthodox manner, by posting his ideas and discoveries on the internet so as to have maximum help and input. Eventually he created GNU/Linux, which is a combination of Free Software Foundations's GNU, and his own.
The Internet, the Web and Cyberspace:
The internet is a network of networks, often called internetwork. The networks include servers, mainframe's and PC's, loosely connected through the telephone system. The idea of 'internet', came from a business named RAND, who believed they could create a network of systems that could outlast a nuclear war as it has not central base and can easily be relocated. The US Department of Defence founded this research and project, which quickly escalated into a problem as email, hackers and MUD's (multiple user domains) took over.
The World Wide Web, or WWW as it is often referred to, is a use of the internet. The web includes all websites people have posted around the world - all written in HTML (Hyper-Text Markup Language). Websites are easily accessible through 'browsers' such as Internet Explorer, which essentially read the HTML and translate it into commands and the English language. It is important to note that the internet is a collection of computers, every website on the internet is a collection of files, and when we use a web browers such as Internet Explorer we are looking at those webpages of files.
Cyberspace is a conceptual space, where words, relationships, data, wealth and power are manifested by people using computer language.
Early Internet Applications:
Email is a virtual system, which sends documents from one disperser to one or mulitple receivers. Mail Software Systems, and Webmail eg Hotmail are the programs in which people hold and view their mail. Email is asynchronus in that emails are sent, but not always received, and not always read on time, it is a one way burst of information.
File Transfer Protocol is uploading photos or data directly from your computer to the web. File transfers using this method are quicker than downloading directly through a browser.
Internet Relay Chat in its most common forms exists as chat rooms. People can type to each other in sychronus style, that is receive a reply instantly. With IRC you can exist in cyberspace as seperate identity.
MUD's:
Multiple user dungeons, such as WOW, were the first online games with many multiple users. There are limited pictures and actions take place by typing words. For example when you enter a room, you are told in words what is happening in the room and who you are with.
More Recent Internet Applications:
Some modern applications include Instant Messaging, Twitter, Myspace and Facebook.
I have also included one of my favourite youtube vidoes on the topic of 'The Internet' - please watch it as it is quite funny :)
Week 2: Tutorial Task
Good morning Gold Coasters,
Convergence is defined as the occurrence of two or more things coming together, the approach of an infinite series to a finite limit, overlap: a representation of common ground between theories or phenomena, the act of converging (coming closer). This was found on the website wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn which i have found to be very helpful in understanding concepts, but like wikipedia it is not the safest option for referencing!
Therefore an example of a technology that is convergent relating to communication is the Otterbox (an obvious example but one none the less, it claims to be an innovative convergent technology solution, Phone, PDA, keypad, GPS and ruggard device in one!)
A second example of convergent technology related to communication is the transformer phone which on the website http://mobilitytoday.com/news/005547/iPAQ_OtterBox_ruggedized_cases_6515 had underneath it a neat list of why it, but convergent technologies in particular are so popular.
"Convenience of carrying a single device, always have a camera, music player, internet with you and a phone, only one device to maintain - keep charged, clean and protected, more ecologically friendly - one instead of three or more batteries, only requires on charger, screen, processor etc to be produced".
The third example of a technological implement that is convergent in some way is the Wegner giant swiss army knife! http://www.gaj-it.com/4181/wenger-giant-swiss-army-knife-when-a-nail-file-just-isnt-enough/ This incredible knife is a convergent technology like no other - it has 85 implements and performs 100 tasks from cutting to repairing to a flashlight!
Still reading? Well done :) My fourth finidng is the first ever colour e-book from fujitsu - basically a digital learning tool for youths in the form of a book.
acoverdale here. Unfortunately your favourite source for credible information has not kept you in the loop lately as i have been on my deathbed with an acute case of the flu. Worry not, the tasks and summaries are completed, just not uploaded. Keep your eyes peeled as all will be restored in good time.
This weeks tutorial task revolved around the theme of convergence.
What on earth is convergence.. read on to be enlightened!
My sources say that having our tute on the Wednesday is both a good thing in that we are semi-ahead with the topics/readings, but bad as the tutorial tasks only make sense on the Thurdsay... What will L and J do to combat these discomforts felt by students?
'til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale
My sources say that having our tute on the Wednesday is both a good thing in that we are semi-ahead with the topics/readings, but bad as the tutorial tasks only make sense on the Thurdsay... What will L and J do to combat these discomforts felt by students?
'til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale
Convergence is defined as the occurrence of two or more things coming together, the approach of an infinite series to a finite limit, overlap: a representation of common ground between theories or phenomena, the act of converging (coming closer). This was found on the website wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn which i have found to be very helpful in understanding concepts, but like wikipedia it is not the safest option for referencing!
Therefore an example of a technology that is convergent relating to communication is the Otterbox (an obvious example but one none the less, it claims to be an innovative convergent technology solution, Phone, PDA, keypad, GPS and ruggard device in one!)
A second example of convergent technology related to communication is the transformer phone which on the website http://mobilitytoday.com/news/005547/iPAQ_OtterBox_ruggedized_cases_6515 had underneath it a neat list of why it, but convergent technologies in particular are so popular.
"Convenience of carrying a single device, always have a camera, music player, internet with you and a phone, only one device to maintain - keep charged, clean and protected, more ecologically friendly - one instead of three or more batteries, only requires on charger, screen, processor etc to be produced".
The third example of a technological implement that is convergent in some way is the Wegner giant swiss army knife! http://www.gaj-it.com/4181/wenger-giant-swiss-army-knife-when-a-nail-file-just-isnt-enough/ This incredible knife is a convergent technology like no other - it has 85 implements and performs 100 tasks from cutting to repairing to a flashlight!
Still reading? Well done :) My fourth finidng is the first ever colour e-book from fujitsu - basically a digital learning tool for youths in the form of a book.
http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-10198920-1.html
Not sure how much "prowess and skill" is showed off in these edits but here they are: 
Next, two youtube videos, one for convergence (iphone) and one of my choosing(gossip girl show opening):
My Interaction with the Internet Timeline Post and History of Computing can be seen in my Week 2: Lecture summary post.
Lastly, the video, very bad recording from my phone but it was so worth it i love the fray and listen for my little scream at the end! :)
Week 1: Lecture Summary
Hi there goldcoasters, acoverdale updating you on New Com Tech 09 - from the inside.
til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale.
After quick introductions, a search for permanent markers and an apology for spelling abilities, Josh Nicholas got started on what turned out to be a very interesting lecture. We disscussed in detail the following:
The suggested readings were helpful and interesting (none of the semi-colons and sentence structures from the compulsory subject last semester).
I enjoyed cocaine jesus (youtube clip), it highlighted what undercover people risks in their professions!
And Babel, thankyou to whoever had nothing better to do than compile that list! (def keeping it close - did you know the difference between block check character and blind carbon copy? a colon! oh dear last semester is coming back)
and finally the American Communication Journal is going to be a lifesaver when it comes to the essay.
til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale.
After quick introductions, a search for permanent markers and an apology for spelling abilities, Josh Nicholas got started on what turned out to be a very interesting lecture. We disscussed in detail the following:
- Considering New Media - new technologies such as the computer, mobile phone and internet (email, message boards, IM, twitter, blogging, social networking sites and youtube, which tied in nicely with the first reading of cociane jesus) and old technologies such as oral, written letters and morse code were decided upon as vital for communication, especially the development of communication through time.
- What is 'Communication'? - Josh defined communication as any process that transfers, transmits or makes information known to other people, an example of this is the speaker produces a message that is heard by the listener. He then explained that there are two types of communication, or rather two channels by which the one term communication can operate through. These are: 1. intersubjectivity (the listener interprets the message and changes it as they send it along) 2. intertextuality (no message is ever complete and any message gains meaning through context and culture)
- What is 'Technology'? - Technology as defined by Josh in the lecture is the scientific study of mechanical arts and their application to the world. Marshall McLuhan argues that technologies are extensions of the human body - a tool is and extension of the hand, a wheel is an extension of the leg and and book is the extension of the eye. It is hard to define such as broad term and therefore throughout this blog there will be many definitions.
- Contours of the communication disclipline - There has been a mass explosion of broadcast media forms and from that many studies and new technologies have developed. These include: communication studies, media studies, cultural studies, journalism, public relations, advertising, marketing, design, new media studies, cyber studies, internet studies, cyberculture studies and web studies.
"This sprawling, brawling mass of disciplines and pseudo-disciplines is what the academic study of Communication has come to".
The suggested readings were helpful and interesting (none of the semi-colons and sentence structures from the compulsory subject last semester).
I enjoyed cocaine jesus (youtube clip), it highlighted what undercover people risks in their professions!
And Babel, thankyou to whoever had nothing better to do than compile that list! (def keeping it close - did you know the difference between block check character and blind carbon copy? a colon! oh dear last semester is coming back)
and finally the American Communication Journal is going to be a lifesaver when it comes to the essay.
'til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Week 1: Tutorial Task
My first blog.. EVER!
Hello Griffith followers, acoverdale here with an inside look into the exciting lives of Gold Coast's NCT students. Unlike Gossip Girl, all that is posted is university related and true!
The class seems worthwile, the tutors (L and J) are lovely and i am learning to finally use the macs.
Til next week,
XOXO
acoverdale
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