What do you make of your experience?
This project made me do a lot of things I really didn't want to do. It made me go out and take notes about about observations and people, it made me write about a lot of stuff that I don't normally worry about, and it gave me a lot of stress. I guess it was all pretty important though, and I learned how to look at culture and people from different angles. But I would be lying if I ever said I would do it again.
What's it like to be part of this community?
It feels like I have one more tool to use for socializing. Video games can build relationships. Recently, the only contact I've made with my cousin who lives in Wisconsin is through playing games together on Xbox Live. It feels like I'm connected to many people, even if I'd rather not even know them.
Describe how you represent their lives?
Their lives don't fit any kind of stereotypes, but then again, are nothing out of the ordinary. Everybody has their quirks and attributes, so I could never represent how someone lives by saying "Oh, they're part of this group." It's impossible. I just try to explain some of the highlights of their behaviors that are relevant to my topic. No reason to go overboard and write a biography.
Do you have this authority? Why or why not?
Do I have the authority to talk about other people's lives? Doesn't everyone? I simply state the facts and give a possible explanation (note: not accurate explanation) as to why this happens. I don't really need any authority to be able to do this. It's my keyboard, my hands that are typing this out. Authority is what is needed to make someone else do something by telling them to do it. I'm not telling anyone to do anything. I'm just giving my opinions.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Peer review of whoever did MT Cup
1. Not really, it’s more like a declarative sentence with a question mark on the end.
2. She has a lot of information, but I feel that some of it is being misinterpreted. I think the reason that they don’t have custom cups is because they can’t afford it, not because they’re all about individuality.
3. Looks fine.
4. No.
5. The writer thinks the coffee cup represents individuality. I disagree, but it’s not my paper.
6. She found a stereotypical hipster/regular and found that MT cup is more of a place to relax.
7. She talked to a person who felt like she was always being judged; apparently the opposite of the first one.
8. No.
9. No.
10. She talks about how the MT Cup is a break away from the corporate and strict ways of running a business. (Now it’s getting foreclosed)
11. The central idea is that MT Cup promotes individuality. She’s not finished so I can’t really comment.
12. Pretty much.
13. Opening paragraph was a bit long. Could easily be broken down in some places.
14. Needs work.
15. Misspellings.
16. Not finished.
17. The interviews have enough information.
18. Pretty straight forward mix of formal and casual.
Uh… I was a little distracted by big grammatical errors.
Apparently this experience has changed the way she perceives coffee. Now she loves it…for some reason. I’m not exactly sure.
At first she though the place was gross, and then she saw it as a representation of indie rock. Some other people see it as the same way, I guess.
I learned that people who think of themselves as “individuals” don’t like it when other people try to prove they have friends.
She likes to think of herself as an individual. The paper is formal…so formal introduction.
Still don’t know what this is asking.
To be done with this.
2. She has a lot of information, but I feel that some of it is being misinterpreted. I think the reason that they don’t have custom cups is because they can’t afford it, not because they’re all about individuality.
3. Looks fine.
4. No.
5. The writer thinks the coffee cup represents individuality. I disagree, but it’s not my paper.
6. She found a stereotypical hipster/regular and found that MT cup is more of a place to relax.
7. She talked to a person who felt like she was always being judged; apparently the opposite of the first one.
8. No.
9. No.
10. She talks about how the MT Cup is a break away from the corporate and strict ways of running a business. (Now it’s getting foreclosed)
11. The central idea is that MT Cup promotes individuality. She’s not finished so I can’t really comment.
12. Pretty much.
13. Opening paragraph was a bit long. Could easily be broken down in some places.
14. Needs work.
15. Misspellings.
16. Not finished.
17. The interviews have enough information.
18. Pretty straight forward mix of formal and casual.
Uh… I was a little distracted by big grammatical errors.
Apparently this experience has changed the way she perceives coffee. Now she loves it…for some reason. I’m not exactly sure.
At first she though the place was gross, and then she saw it as a representation of indie rock. Some other people see it as the same way, I guess.
I learned that people who think of themselves as “individuals” don’t like it when other people try to prove they have friends.
She likes to think of herself as an individual. The paper is formal…so formal introduction.
Still don’t know what this is asking.
To be done with this.
Peer Review Brittany Abiera
1. She poses the question “If Ball State received this title [university committed to diversity], there shouldn’t be any issues with [someone] finding a place to fit in and not have to deal with a social hierarchy right?” The paper identifies tension between diversity and fitting in. Yes.
2. Her ideas are all well written out and explain how she thought of Out of Bound before and after her research. Her perceptions were accurate and informative. I could easily understand the atmosphere of the area. The point of view was very negative of the fieldsite in the beginning, but by the end, even though the area was still a little put-offish, she found something valuable in Out of Bounds. My words: All different sorts of stereotypes eat and socialize at Out of Bounds, but this place can put everyone on a level playing field, allowing everyone to be themselves. Observations and thoughts are even. It is important because different social stereotypes are level in the social hierarchy when they are at Out of Bounds.
3. The ideas are pretty broad in some areas, especially the beginning when she speaks about diversity. She talks about how diversity is related to “different cultures, ethnicities, races, social statuses and social groups” when she really just talks about social groups. Other than that, no problems.
4. She talks about how Out of Bounds brings people of different stereotypes to the same playing field which is a good broad explanation of what is going on in the area.
5. I didn’t really notice any specific artifact, unless it was something to do with the billiard table.
6. The emphasis on Interview 1 was that, even though people may not like being in a place like Out of Bounds, it allows them to be themselves. Molly was a member of a sorority but didn’t feel any tensions of fitting into a stereotype when in Out of Bounds.
7. Out of Bounds can also be a quiet place to think or study when the need arises. For Kasi, the billiard table brings back memories of her grandfather and the lessons he taught her.
8. No. One is used in the beginning to introduce the idea of diversity, but really doesn’t have much to do with the conclusion. The second is about ethnic diversity which has almost nothing to do with the main idea of her paper. The third talks about the “power of pool” and how it can build relationships which is relatable to her main idea.
9. Yes.
10. She talks about how her experiences are relatable to her research and how people keep searching for social acceptance. Overall I guess it sums it up pretty well.
11. Yes. Out of Bounds lets people be themselves while allowing different social groups to be on the same level of the social hierarchy. No.
12. Yep.
13. They seem about right.
14. For the most part.
15. I recall seeing the word “learnt” which I’m not so sure is a real word, but Microsoft is telling me otherwise right now. I would probably change it to “learned” for proper grammar purposes.
16. Not enough repetition to make the paper dull.
17. It’s fine. No problems.
18. It’s very informal, just like Out of Bounds, so it’s good.
I began to think a little more about the social situations that Out of Bounds puts people into.
She discovered that Out of Bounds pretty much puts everyone in a comfortable area of being themselves.
She used to believe that Out of Bounds was only used for convenience but learned that it has social implications.
I understand that college is broken into many different social groups.
I would call it casual, with a tinge of formality because of the restrictions of school papers.
Giving in to what? I don’t understand.
I wish I didn’t have to do this forever long peer review where I’m asked questions that I don’t have answers for.
2. Her ideas are all well written out and explain how she thought of Out of Bound before and after her research. Her perceptions were accurate and informative. I could easily understand the atmosphere of the area. The point of view was very negative of the fieldsite in the beginning, but by the end, even though the area was still a little put-offish, she found something valuable in Out of Bounds. My words: All different sorts of stereotypes eat and socialize at Out of Bounds, but this place can put everyone on a level playing field, allowing everyone to be themselves. Observations and thoughts are even. It is important because different social stereotypes are level in the social hierarchy when they are at Out of Bounds.
3. The ideas are pretty broad in some areas, especially the beginning when she speaks about diversity. She talks about how diversity is related to “different cultures, ethnicities, races, social statuses and social groups” when she really just talks about social groups. Other than that, no problems.
4. She talks about how Out of Bounds brings people of different stereotypes to the same playing field which is a good broad explanation of what is going on in the area.
5. I didn’t really notice any specific artifact, unless it was something to do with the billiard table.
6. The emphasis on Interview 1 was that, even though people may not like being in a place like Out of Bounds, it allows them to be themselves. Molly was a member of a sorority but didn’t feel any tensions of fitting into a stereotype when in Out of Bounds.
7. Out of Bounds can also be a quiet place to think or study when the need arises. For Kasi, the billiard table brings back memories of her grandfather and the lessons he taught her.
8. No. One is used in the beginning to introduce the idea of diversity, but really doesn’t have much to do with the conclusion. The second is about ethnic diversity which has almost nothing to do with the main idea of her paper. The third talks about the “power of pool” and how it can build relationships which is relatable to her main idea.
9. Yes.
10. She talks about how her experiences are relatable to her research and how people keep searching for social acceptance. Overall I guess it sums it up pretty well.
11. Yes. Out of Bounds lets people be themselves while allowing different social groups to be on the same level of the social hierarchy. No.
12. Yep.
13. They seem about right.
14. For the most part.
15. I recall seeing the word “learnt” which I’m not so sure is a real word, but Microsoft is telling me otherwise right now. I would probably change it to “learned” for proper grammar purposes.
16. Not enough repetition to make the paper dull.
17. It’s fine. No problems.
18. It’s very informal, just like Out of Bounds, so it’s good.
I began to think a little more about the social situations that Out of Bounds puts people into.
She discovered that Out of Bounds pretty much puts everyone in a comfortable area of being themselves.
She used to believe that Out of Bounds was only used for convenience but learned that it has social implications.
I understand that college is broken into many different social groups.
I would call it casual, with a tinge of formality because of the restrictions of school papers.
Giving in to what? I don’t understand.
I wish I didn’t have to do this forever long peer review where I’m asked questions that I don’t have answers for.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Language Paper Peer Reviews
Peer review of Rachel Dana
1.She gives her thoughts about how her subjects look and how they respond to being recorded in an interview. “He is about six feet tall, and wearing his usual attire: basketball shorts, t-shirt, and tennis shoes.” “He was giving me dull answers and was speaking in monotone.” “In the beginning, the interview was boring and awkward, but we warmed up to the process.”
2.I can’t really find any focus on trait differences other than giving out the genders of the informants.
3.The physical description was good for Michael but less detailed on the other three informants. I think there should be a little more background given on the informants.
4.They have a few opinions about stereotypes in the subculture. “With a sport like NASCAR, people are rednecks.” “hockey became popular once the U.S.A. team started winning, like when America beat Russia in 1980.”
5.The first interview is with a sports fan named Michael. I’m not quite sure where it takes place though. It was difficult at first for her to get answers from Michael, but they started over after taking a break and things went a lot better. The second interview takes place with three different people, which included Michael’s roommate. I still don’t know where it took place. It went much better than the first one.
6.FIRST THESIS: “With Michael’s interview, I had gained knowledge of how sports fanatics interact with each other along with how their subculture is a giant group of fieldworkers.” It is not true thesis. She’s on the right track with “sports fanatics…[are] fieldworkers.” SECOND THESIS: “There are also many stereotypes about sports fanatics, but there seems to be a common trend that the stereotypes involve how people who are a fan of a certain team behave.” This is the closest I could find to a thesis for the second interview. It is very vague and does not make an arguable point.
7.Balanced.
8.From Michael, she wanted to know about general facts and behaviors of sports fanatics. She wanted to hear more about stereotypes from the second interview.
9.She asked about what and when sports fans should shout to support their team. “Going, Going, Gone!” was an example she used, but she did not linger on the subject or delve into meanings.
10.I learned about the differences between Cubs games and Sox games. I’d like to know more about sayings/verbal art in the subculture.
11..
12.I feel that at some points in the paper, it jumps around too much. There was not really a smooth transition between Michaels quote about college basketball to his competitive nature as a fan.
13.No. I feel like the language is a little choppy and too much like a high school essay. It’s not very story-like.
14.Make a definitive thesis statement.
Julie Burgener Peer Review
1.She mentions that John looks like an important person to her. That’s about it.
2.None
3.She says that he is an important person but does not offer any more description.
4.No world views, just thoughts about his job. “This is the closest thing to the real world.”
5.There is only one stated informant.
6.“They understand the pressure and deadlines, and all learned to help each other out.” I wouldn’t call it a thesis, but it’s the best I could find. It really doesn’t offer any arguable positions.
7.There is much more summary than quotation used.
8.She just wanted to know basic facts about Newsweek.
9.She mentions “beat day” where journalists go out and interview informants.
10.I learned a little more about how the news world works. I’d like to get more than one person’s opinion on it though.
11..
12.Opens with a vague description of the group. Then she just goes into what goes on at Newsweek.
13.The writing style is very plain. It is informative, but would probably not hold the reader’s attention too well.
14.Talk more about the actual interviews and less about the entire subculture as a whole.
1.She gives her thoughts about how her subjects look and how they respond to being recorded in an interview. “He is about six feet tall, and wearing his usual attire: basketball shorts, t-shirt, and tennis shoes.” “He was giving me dull answers and was speaking in monotone.” “In the beginning, the interview was boring and awkward, but we warmed up to the process.”
2.I can’t really find any focus on trait differences other than giving out the genders of the informants.
3.The physical description was good for Michael but less detailed on the other three informants. I think there should be a little more background given on the informants.
4.They have a few opinions about stereotypes in the subculture. “With a sport like NASCAR, people are rednecks.” “hockey became popular once the U.S.A. team started winning, like when America beat Russia in 1980.”
5.The first interview is with a sports fan named Michael. I’m not quite sure where it takes place though. It was difficult at first for her to get answers from Michael, but they started over after taking a break and things went a lot better. The second interview takes place with three different people, which included Michael’s roommate. I still don’t know where it took place. It went much better than the first one.
6.FIRST THESIS: “With Michael’s interview, I had gained knowledge of how sports fanatics interact with each other along with how their subculture is a giant group of fieldworkers.” It is not true thesis. She’s on the right track with “sports fanatics…[are] fieldworkers.” SECOND THESIS: “There are also many stereotypes about sports fanatics, but there seems to be a common trend that the stereotypes involve how people who are a fan of a certain team behave.” This is the closest I could find to a thesis for the second interview. It is very vague and does not make an arguable point.
7.Balanced.
8.From Michael, she wanted to know about general facts and behaviors of sports fanatics. She wanted to hear more about stereotypes from the second interview.
9.She asked about what and when sports fans should shout to support their team. “Going, Going, Gone!” was an example she used, but she did not linger on the subject or delve into meanings.
10.I learned about the differences between Cubs games and Sox games. I’d like to know more about sayings/verbal art in the subculture.
11..
12.I feel that at some points in the paper, it jumps around too much. There was not really a smooth transition between Michaels quote about college basketball to his competitive nature as a fan.
13.No. I feel like the language is a little choppy and too much like a high school essay. It’s not very story-like.
14.Make a definitive thesis statement.
Julie Burgener Peer Review
1.She mentions that John looks like an important person to her. That’s about it.
2.None
3.She says that he is an important person but does not offer any more description.
4.No world views, just thoughts about his job. “This is the closest thing to the real world.”
5.There is only one stated informant.
6.“They understand the pressure and deadlines, and all learned to help each other out.” I wouldn’t call it a thesis, but it’s the best I could find. It really doesn’t offer any arguable positions.
7.There is much more summary than quotation used.
8.She just wanted to know basic facts about Newsweek.
9.She mentions “beat day” where journalists go out and interview informants.
10.I learned a little more about how the news world works. I’d like to get more than one person’s opinion on it though.
11..
12.Opens with a vague description of the group. Then she just goes into what goes on at Newsweek.
13.The writing style is very plain. It is informative, but would probably not hold the reader’s attention too well.
14.Talk more about the actual interviews and less about the entire subculture as a whole.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Verbal Portraiture
Physical Features: Gelled hair, shaven but a little stubble on the chin. Looks well rested and healthy.
Clothes: American Eagle t-shirt, Khaki shorts, Nike shoes.
Body Language: Sitting and watching TV. Sitting in a very lazy position so that his head is resting on the back of the futon.
Personal History: Hangs out with friends a lot. Not extremely involved with school.
Clothes: American Eagle t-shirt, Khaki shorts, Nike shoes.
Body Language: Sitting and watching TV. Sitting in a very lazy position so that his head is resting on the back of the futon.
Personal History: Hangs out with friends a lot. Not extremely involved with school.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Notes for March 26
Computer lab is very comfortable.
I like it here.
The attendant sits at front desk looking bored.
What exactly do they do here anyways?
There's a guy sitting towards the back all alone.
Well, he's not the only one.
It's 7:00 now. Not much has happened.
Getting pretty boring.
7:20 A group of people enter the lab.
Boy they seem pretty happy.
Group is all carrying headphones.
The computers don't have speakers or anything.
Group moves to back of room.
Looks like they know what they're doing.
One stops to talk to attendant.
Looks like they know each other.
Guy talking to attendant talks about computer problems.
Even with the high-end computers they have problems.
Guy joins rest of group.
Group is pretty loud, but having fun.
I don't mind, they seem like nice enough people. Close to the nerd stereotype though.
Group plays Left 4 Dead 2.
Most of group leaving. About one hour after they came.
It's only 8:30.
One stays playing Team Fortress 2.
I think I'll talk to him.
I like it here.
The attendant sits at front desk looking bored.
What exactly do they do here anyways?
There's a guy sitting towards the back all alone.
Well, he's not the only one.
It's 7:00 now. Not much has happened.
Getting pretty boring.
7:20 A group of people enter the lab.
Boy they seem pretty happy.
Group is all carrying headphones.
The computers don't have speakers or anything.
Group moves to back of room.
Looks like they know what they're doing.
One stops to talk to attendant.
Looks like they know each other.
Guy talking to attendant talks about computer problems.
Even with the high-end computers they have problems.
Guy joins rest of group.
Group is pretty loud, but having fun.
I don't mind, they seem like nice enough people. Close to the nerd stereotype though.
Group plays Left 4 Dead 2.
Most of group leaving. About one hour after they came.
It's only 8:30.
One stays playing Team Fortress 2.
I think I'll talk to him.
Interview Response
I can't really say that I see my interview in any different way after the Box 21 project. My partner pointed out that the gamer's thoughts on society's views about gaming were pretty important, but I already saw those ideas as important. I still see the gamer as a person who thinks that video games are misrepresented in today's society. He said that video games are just a scape goat for people who commit violent crimes. He grew up with video games, and finds himself using them for entertainment and social reasons.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Subculture Terms
Controller- Game controller used for playing video games
Bricked- Normally referring to a broken game console. "My Xbox is bricked."
Red Ring of Death- Associated with Xbox 360. Three red flashing lights that form a ring on the console when the electronics have malfunctioned.
Gamertag- Name chosen by user and shown to other players.
Avatar- Virtual representation of one's self. Not always accurate.
Pwned- To be defeated shamefully. Term used mostly by younger gamers.
Noob- One who is new to the game. Term used mostly by younger gamers.
Achievements and Trophies- Virtual rewards for accomplishing something in a game. (Achievements= Xbox360 and PC; Trophies= Playstation 3)
First-person shooter- Game genre. Player takes control of character and has a viewpoint from the character's perspective.
Platformer- Game genre. Player controls character where the main objective is to move across a stage. (Example: Mario)
Real Time Strategy- Game genre. Player often has a top down perspective and gives orders to various military troops and units.
Rythym/music game- Game genre. Player uses a controller representing a guitar, drum set, turntable, etc. and hits buttons corresponding to what is shown on screen.
Racing- Game genre. Player controls some type of vehicle to race others.
Fighter- Game genre. Player controls character who must fight other characters in hand to hand combat.
Flight sim- Game genre. Player controls a virtual airplane.
Bricked- Normally referring to a broken game console. "My Xbox is bricked."
Red Ring of Death- Associated with Xbox 360. Three red flashing lights that form a ring on the console when the electronics have malfunctioned.
Gamertag- Name chosen by user and shown to other players.
Avatar- Virtual representation of one's self. Not always accurate.
Pwned- To be defeated shamefully. Term used mostly by younger gamers.
Noob- One who is new to the game. Term used mostly by younger gamers.
Achievements and Trophies- Virtual rewards for accomplishing something in a game. (Achievements= Xbox360 and PC; Trophies= Playstation 3)
First-person shooter- Game genre. Player takes control of character and has a viewpoint from the character's perspective.
Platformer- Game genre. Player controls character where the main objective is to move across a stage. (Example: Mario)
Real Time Strategy- Game genre. Player often has a top down perspective and gives orders to various military troops and units.
Rythym/music game- Game genre. Player uses a controller representing a guitar, drum set, turntable, etc. and hits buttons corresponding to what is shown on screen.
Racing- Game genre. Player controls some type of vehicle to race others.
Fighter- Game genre. Player controls character who must fight other characters in hand to hand combat.
Flight sim- Game genre. Player controls a virtual airplane.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
2 people 30 questions
Misha Kirkhoff- a gamer and my roommate.
1. What is the most important aspect of a video game to you? Story, game play, social abilities?
2. How do you feel about gaming in today’s society?
3. How do you think most people who don’t play video games think of the hobby?
4. What do you normally find yourself using video games for?
5. What do you think of stereotypes in this culture?
6. Do you know any of those stereotypes?
7. What would you say is your favorite video game? Favorite Genre?
8. Have you made many friends through this hobby?
9. How did you get started in this hobby?
10. Do you find your background of Russian origins having any influence on this hobby?
11. Would you rather play video games alone or with friends?
12. What do you think the future of the video game industry is?
13. Do you find the video game controller meaning anything special to you?
14. How much money do you spend on video games?
15. How often do you play video games?
Random gamer
1. How did you get started in this hobby?
2. Do you find the video game controller meaning anything special to you?
3. What would you say is your favorite video game? Favorite Genre?
4. What kind of things would you like to see from this industry in the future?
5. How do you feel about gaming in today’s society?
6. How do you think most people who don’t play video games think of the hobby?
7. What do you normally find yourself using video games for?
8. What do you think of stereotypes in this culture?
9. Do you know any of those stereotypes?
10. Have you made many friends through this hobby?
11. What is the most important aspect of a video game to you? Story, game play, social abilities?
12. Would you rather play video games alone or with friends?
13. What do you think the future of the video game industry is?
14. How much money do you spend on video games?
15. How often do you play video games?
1. What is the most important aspect of a video game to you? Story, game play, social abilities?
2. How do you feel about gaming in today’s society?
3. How do you think most people who don’t play video games think of the hobby?
4. What do you normally find yourself using video games for?
5. What do you think of stereotypes in this culture?
6. Do you know any of those stereotypes?
7. What would you say is your favorite video game? Favorite Genre?
8. Have you made many friends through this hobby?
9. How did you get started in this hobby?
10. Do you find your background of Russian origins having any influence on this hobby?
11. Would you rather play video games alone or with friends?
12. What do you think the future of the video game industry is?
13. Do you find the video game controller meaning anything special to you?
14. How much money do you spend on video games?
15. How often do you play video games?
Random gamer
1. How did you get started in this hobby?
2. Do you find the video game controller meaning anything special to you?
3. What would you say is your favorite video game? Favorite Genre?
4. What kind of things would you like to see from this industry in the future?
5. How do you feel about gaming in today’s society?
6. How do you think most people who don’t play video games think of the hobby?
7. What do you normally find yourself using video games for?
8. What do you think of stereotypes in this culture?
9. Do you know any of those stereotypes?
10. Have you made many friends through this hobby?
11. What is the most important aspect of a video game to you? Story, game play, social abilities?
12. Would you rather play video games alone or with friends?
13. What do you think the future of the video game industry is?
14. How much money do you spend on video games?
15. How often do you play video games?
Monday, March 15, 2010
Academic Source Summaries
THE MEDIUM OF THE VIDEO GAME
The summary and review of the book, The Medium of the Video Game by Mark Wolf, is written by Paul S. Breidenbach of Loyola University and can be found in the 2005 publication of Visual Anthropology Review. The thesis states “[The book] highlights the communicative possibilities for human users who, in the case of video games, are both viewers and players.” Breidenbach points out some major themes of the book including its explanation of video games in general. It is mentioned that video games often pull heavily from past media like film. However according to Breidenbach “[A video game] is a simulated space to be navigated rather than passively viewed and recognized as in film and television (Breidenbach 194).” He also writes about how players can control the time in video games unlike in film where the viewer can only passively observe.
Breidenbach, Paul S. “The Medium of the Video Game.” Visual Anthropology Review: Vol. 21 Issue 1. March 2005. 194.
I think that this article is helpful in the overall understanding of video games. It does not really provide an argument but could be used to support one. However I wouldn’t use it for an argument but rather use it for my own overview of video games. My target audience is pretty broad so this would help in explaining a more detailed observation of video games.
The author takes a very psychological and almost artistic interpretation of video games. He talks about the features of video games and compares and contrasts them to films. In doing this he is able to show how in-depth video games can be. He speaks of video games in a very positive fashion and I can’t find a specific instance of where he writes anything negative of the subject.
VIDEO GAMES TIED TO AGGRESSION
In a 2010 issue of USA Today, Jayson Sharon wrote about how a review of about 130 different studies shows that “playing violent video games increases aggressive thoughts and behavior and decreases empathy (Sharon 01a).” I believe the thesis is as follows: “But Christopher Ferguson, an associate professor at Texas A&M International University in Laredo, says in a critique accompanying the study that the effects found "are generally very low." After the introduction that provides information about the studies, Sharon writes about Ferguson’s criticisms of the studies. Ferguson explains that video games were not the only factor involved with the violent behavior including “’delinquent peer influences…and parents/guardians who use psychological abuse (Sharon 01a).’”
Sharon, Jayson. "Video games tied to aggression." USA Today n.d.: Academic Search Premier. EBSCO. Web. 15 Mar. 2010.
This information might help me if I choose to go into the issues of video game violence. I support the idea that video games are not main causations for violent behavior in children today, so this essay would support my argument. The audiences, no matter who they are, are going to have some kind of opinion on this subject as it is a popular debate today in the US, so it would relate to them well, Even more so if they share my opinion.
The writer tries his best to remain neutral on this subject by only using the opinions of Christopher Ferguson, but I think he agrees with Ferguson because he quotes Ferguson exclusively. I see the debate about video game violence everywhere. Politicians who are against it are almost extreme in their actions to stop it. One such politician was Jack Thompson, who eventually lost his license to be a lawyer in Florida because of his extreme actions to stop video game violence.
WHAT GAMES STUDIES CAN TEACH US ABOUT VIDEO GAMES IN ENGLISH AND LITERACY
The article, What games studies can teach us about videogames in the English and Literacy classroom, is written by Thomas Apperley of the University of New England and was published in February of 2010 in the Australian Journal of Language and Literacy. The thesis statement is “This article demonstrates how scholarship on videogames provides useful terminology that allows games to be understood in their own right: both as a unique form of ‘interactive’ entertainment media, and as a part of contemporary audio, visual and narrative cultures (Apperley 12).” This article speaks about how a player of video games can take information learned in the game and use it in real life situations. It also touches on the growing social implications of gaming as it uses the internet to connect gamers around the world.
Apperley, Thomas. "What games studies can teach us about videogames in the English and Literacy classroom." Australian Journal of Language & Literacy 33.1 (2010): 12-23. Academic Search Premier. EBSCO. Web. 15 Mar. 2010.
I can use the information from this article to show some implications of video games. It would certainly back up my argument that video games are becoming an essential part of our social structure as it points out how important socialization is for some games. This would also relate to my audience because not only would it give some background information on video games, but it would also allow them to look towards the future of social gaming and the implications for education.
The author supports the idea of expanding upon the already large world of video games. I was surprised when I read this however as it was published in an Australian journal. Australia has a reputation for being extremely anti-video games. Many games are banned in Australia, and they are often very over-priced in the country so it is a difficult hobby to have for one living in Australia.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Box 18
All eyes are focused on the TV as the racers enter the final lap. Controllers in hand, the drivers stare intensely at the artificial actions taking place on the television set. Playing video games always requires one to focus on a screen whether it be a computer monitor or a TV. The screen is the focal point of this activity. The television is the visual representation of the actions taking place in the imaginary video game world. Without the TV screen, there would be no point to playing the games at all. This big black box is also given a place of honor. Setting upon a stand or some elevated position, the TV is set in a place so that it is visible all who wish to see it. Obviously, this visual projecting box is very important.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Box 13
This is an Xbox 360 controller. The name pretty much says it all. This object is manipulated by the user to control whatever is happening onscreen. The controller is covered in buttons and joysticks. On the left there is a joystick and a directional pad and on the right there are four buttons with individual colors and letters along with another joystick. In the center is the "start" and "back" buttons with the large Xbox guide button. On the top there is a pair of triggers and another set of buttons.The controller represents a gamer's interaction with the game. Without a controller, the Xbox 360 is entirely inaccessible to the user. This is an object that is very important to the subculture. Of course this isn't the first type of video gaming controller, but it does represent the latest in the gaming technology currently prevalent in today's society.
This object and identical ones just like it are spread across the globe because it is manufactured by the large company Microsoft. It does not tell us much about the company that created it. It also can't really tell us much about the person who uses it other than that they play video games. What type of games does the user play? There is no way to tell.
While not telling us much about individuals, this item gives us a good ideal in how those who use it interact with their hobby on a very basic and literal level. I chose this object, because it is one of the most simple insights into the subculture by showing us one of its most basic tools.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Fieldnotes
Watching Roommate play
Modern Warfare 2 online.
He gets killed by an enemy. I have to agree with him.
He responds with "I hate it when
people play this game in the cheapest
way possible."
His player respawns and begins using
a sniper rifle.
He looks pretty tense while playing. Concentrating I guess.
He talks to warns his team of an enemy Communication is pretty
hiding around a corner using the Xbox important
360 headset.
He gets killed by the enemy hiding around I would be angry too.
the corner. He responds with some
profanity.
He respawns and changes to a close range
class.
He goes back to the same spot to kill the Roommate seems to be pretty
enemy still hiding around the corner. He determined to avenge himself.
gets killed again by the same enemy. Anything to do witha hurt pride?
My roommate complains about People who use cheap tactics
"campers" in the game. to win, like staying in the same
place and waiting for enemies,
are frowned upon.
Modern Warfare 2 online.
He gets killed by an enemy. I have to agree with him.
He responds with "I hate it when
people play this game in the cheapest
way possible."
His player respawns and begins using
a sniper rifle.
He looks pretty tense while playing. Concentrating I guess.
He talks to warns his team of an enemy Communication is pretty
hiding around a corner using the Xbox important
360 headset.
He gets killed by the enemy hiding around I would be angry too.
the corner. He responds with some
profanity.
He respawns and changes to a close range
class.
He goes back to the same spot to kill the Roommate seems to be pretty
enemy still hiding around the corner. He determined to avenge himself.
gets killed again by the same enemy. Anything to do witha hurt pride?
My roommate complains about People who use cheap tactics
"campers" in the game. to win, like staying in the same
place and waiting for enemies,
are frowned upon.
Monday, February 8, 2010
An insight to my personality type
Through an intuitive process, I've come to learn that I am an introvert when it comes to social situations. According to Ellen Lucas, a counselor at Ball State University, "introverts are normally pretty quiet, but probably have something to say if you ask them directly (Lucas)." I think that describes me well. I'm a pretty quiet person but I am very quick to engage in friendly conversation if someone else approaches me. This could make my research a little difficult as I will be dealing with social situations and beginning all the conversations. I will definitely have to overcome my general silence if I want this project to be successful.
Lucas, Ellen. Class Lecture. 4 February 2010.
Lucas, Ellen. Class Lecture. 4 February 2010.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Grace Fahrbach Peer Review
Your Name: William Bohn
Writer’s Name: Grace Fahrbach
Does the writer state a thesis at the end of the first paragraph that explains why s/he wants to study a particular subculture and does s/he make a claim about how his or her view of that subculture has been formed? If you can’t find a thesis point this out here.
If you can find a thesis, rewrite the thesis here:
“I understand why people use Facebook and I don’t think who I am will affect the way I see this group, although looking at pictures and more into conversations I may have to keep an open mind about that.
Does the thesis make an argument that a reasonable person could disagree with? If yes, what? If no, suggest a thesis based on the paper.
No: “Facebook seems to be taking over other forms of communication.”
What subculture is named in the paper?
The Facebook community
Could the thesis need to be more concise or more complex?
It must be a little more concise. I’m not even sure what the second part of the sentence means.
Is the thesis specific enough to have meaning? Make a suggestion that pushes the language towards more specific meaning:
Make a debatable observation about Facebook. Make an accusation about it.
How does the essay address the writer’s fixed position in connection with his or her potential subculture? Quote from the paper to explain.
She answers the question pretty directly. “I don’t see these fixed positions affecting my fieldwork.”
What does the writing tell you about this student’s subjective position? Quote from the paper to explain.
She seems to have a negative attitude towards the program. “I have had Facebook since eighth grad and I still don’t understand why people love it so much.
What does the writing tell you about this student’s textual position?
Quote from the paper to explain.
She is against certain aspects of the Facebook community. “I am not biased towards Facebook but I do feel as if people totally put themselves out there on the internet…”
Does the essay seem like a story or does it seem too formal? Suggest where narrative elements might serve as good examples.
It has a nice balance with some mentions of family members joining and the overall user base of Facebook.
Does each paragraph seem to be an appropriate length, with only one main idea per paragraph? If not, what specific suggestions do you have to make this paper better organized?
Some of the paragraphs are too long. Second paragraph can be broken in to two separate paragraphs about fixed positions and one about question about her family members.
What suggestions do you have to make the content of this paper better?
Take out the fluff. i.e. “I am really excited to start studying this subculture”
What do you think the strength of this paper is?
Her personal experiences with the facebook community.
What are the weaknesses?
Not enough opinion, its mostly facts.
What’s missing?
Her opinions on many of the subjects she writes about.
What’s unnecessary?
“I am really excited to start studying this subculture”
Mark on the manuscript any important grammar/spelling mistakes.
Fill out the following chart, adding your comments about each component.
CRITERIA
READER'S COMMENTS
Weak Satisf. Strong
__w___ _____ _____ Thesis: clear, important, risky
Comments:
_____ __sa___ _____ Evidence: relevance, strength, credibility
Comments:
_____ __sa___ _____ Organization: arrangement of ideas, guiding the reader
Comments:
__w___ _____ _____ Mechanics: spelling, grammar, punctuation
Comments:
_____ __sa___ _____ Overall effectiveness: Was the relationship between the author’s background and their subculture clear? Were you convinced of the effects?
Comments: I know she wanted to take out some of the more personal elements, but I would suggest just watering them down a bit and not taking them out completely.
Hannah DeLaughter Peer Review
Writer’s Name: Hannah DeLaughter
Does the writer state a thesis at the end of the first paragraph that explains why s/he wants to study a particular subculture and does s/he make a claim about how his or her view of that subculture has been formed? If you can’t find a thesis point this out here.
If you can find a thesis, rewrite the thesis here:
I thought that if I researched more of the subculture I thought I might become interested in this graceful, yet energetic culture.
Does the thesis make an argument that a reasonable person could disagree with? If yes, what? If no, suggest a thesis based on the paper.
Not really, this thesis does not pose an arguable belief about the subculture. I would suggest something along the lines of : “The art of dancing is consider mostly a female organization as men are held to stereotypes by society.”
What subculture is named in the paper?
Dancers
Could the thesis need to be more concise or more complex?
It needs to say something about the subculture.
Is the thesis specific enough to have meaning? Make a suggestion that pushes the language towards more specific meaning:
It could say something about the stereotypes held about dancers or mention the long history of artistic dancing.
How does the essay address the writer’s fixed position in connection with his or her potential subculture? Quote from the paper to explain.
Because she is female and young, she thinks that she will have a different opinion of the subculture than if she were not female and young. “All in all, I really think that my personal fixed influences will have a huge influence on my fieldwork”
What does the writing tell you about this student’s subjective position? Quote from the paper to explain.
She has been involved in dance before and therefore has a slight insider view.
What does the writing tell you about this student’s textual position?
Quote from the paper to explain.
She likes the subculture but does not like its exclusiveness to women. “…men should be allowed to dance if they really enjoy it…”
Does the essay seem like a story or does it seem too formal? Suggest where narrative elements might serve as good examples.
It’s in between/has a good balance. She tells a little about her own life, “My mother was a dancer and I still see her passion…” and a little about the big picture, “…that is a problem in our society now because men should be allowed to dance…”
Does each paragraph seem to be an appropriate length, with only one main idea per paragraph? If not, what specific suggestions do you have to make this paper better organized?
Yes, she has a separate paragraph for fixed positions and stereotypes.
What suggestions do you have to make the content of this paper better?
I’d like to hear more about her past history with dancing. She could be a little more specific about the stereotypes and probably add some personal experiences with these stereotypes.
What do you think the strength of this paper is?
Showing the stereotypes in this subculture
What are the weaknesses?
There isn’t much about her history with the subculture
What’s missing?
Personal input
What’s unnecessary?
Stating that it will be “fun and entertaining” to study this subculture
Mark on the manuscript any important grammar/spelling mistakes.
Fill out the following chart, adding your comments about each component.
CRITERIA
READER'S COMMENTS
Weak Satisf. Strong
__w___ _____ _____ Thesis: clear, important, risky
Comments:
_____ ___s__ _____ Evidence: relevance, strength, credibility
Comments:
_____ ___s__ _____ Organization: arrangement of ideas, guiding the reader
Comments:
_____ __s___ _____ Mechanics: spelling, grammar, punctuation
Comments:
_____ __s___ _____ Overall effectiveness: Was the relationship between the author’s background and their subculture clear? Were you convinced of the effects?
Comments: There isn’t enough personal input in the paper
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)