The final blog entry of the semester and I can barely come up with a topic...
My final entry will be dedicated to the most effective way to handle public announcements in terms of Simmel's Social Distance Theory. While this depends entirely on the nature of the message, I will attempt to take all elements into account.
Method 1: Mass Email
This is an effective method for announcing a party or event. However, if it is sensitive information, this may not be the most effective way. There are cases when mass numbers of people are involved that this may be appropriate, but only when a final verdict has been reached.
Method 2: Print
A public announcement by paper must be neither important or sensitive. Such as the case in an expulsion from a private university. A print release within 48 hours of the verdict is highly unsensitive and inappropriate.
A public announcement by newsletter can contain more sensitive and important information, such as a dismissal or resignation. This acheives the goal of a more personal conveyance of information.
Method 3: Oral
A public announcement given orally in front of a congregation is appropriate in many situations. This seems to be the most personal way to convey both spectrums of importance and sensitivity.
There are many ways to make a public announcement. The selection of a method seems to come down to the importance and sensitivity of the situation. Other factors include the number of recipients for the message and the nature of the relationship of announcer to recipients.
Simmel's Social Distance Theory applies on each of these levels. Each method conveys a certain emphasis on importance and sensitivity, while the layers of relationship reflect on the method chosen. Public Announcements can quickly define the perceived distance between entities--individuals to each other, individuals to communities, and communities to each other.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Entry 12
This post comes purely from a weekend of reflection on high school, college, and profession football. Although my intention for the weekend was focused purely on meditation and relaxation, I could not separate my experience from what I have been learning in Communication Technology and Society.
It all started with a coach's challenge. The announcer commented on the dialogue the coach was having with his team up in "the booth". The fate of the play, and possibly the game, rested on those 30 seconds of communication. As I reviewed this in my head, I realized how many technologies played into that single situation: video recording and playback, two way audio transmition, visual time-keeping, and others. To get to the main point, I think there is a huge standard of communication in college and pro football that goes completely unnoticed to most spectators.
Calling plays is the single most important element of the coach-player relationship. As I watched different games, I realized how this took place differently at different levels. A high school team generally runs plays in as it substitutes players. A college team, depending on the level, will relay calls by signals or audio. A professional team relies solely on audio calls with an arm sleeve to interpret. It was really interesting to see how this played out through the course of the game.
In high school, there was chaos if the coach needed to call a play quickly. This chaos toned down throughout more advanced levels, but speed was a constant of this element of communication technology.
I think Ellul's theory of image and word has some interesting implications. Within this environment, the two are completely synonymous. The piece of paper held up to call a play means the exact same thing as the play call itself. The play call relates entirely to a reality and not so much to truth. As the two blend, it is incredible to consider if this applies to other areas of life.
In addition to Ellul's theory, the Umbrella Perspective can be applied. Comparing the audio forms used in professional and college levels to the high school word-of-mouth form is ridiculous. Any player would say that having the coach call a play in your ear is the best way to get it. Any coach would say that the ability to call a play at any time is invaluable.
Also, one of the 3 Immutable Laws is kind of negated in this. These comtechs and pace are inversely related. This slows things down and allows the coach to set a slower pace that is not so chaotic.
It all started with a coach's challenge. The announcer commented on the dialogue the coach was having with his team up in "the booth". The fate of the play, and possibly the game, rested on those 30 seconds of communication. As I reviewed this in my head, I realized how many technologies played into that single situation: video recording and playback, two way audio transmition, visual time-keeping, and others. To get to the main point, I think there is a huge standard of communication in college and pro football that goes completely unnoticed to most spectators.
Calling plays is the single most important element of the coach-player relationship. As I watched different games, I realized how this took place differently at different levels. A high school team generally runs plays in as it substitutes players. A college team, depending on the level, will relay calls by signals or audio. A professional team relies solely on audio calls with an arm sleeve to interpret. It was really interesting to see how this played out through the course of the game.
In high school, there was chaos if the coach needed to call a play quickly. This chaos toned down throughout more advanced levels, but speed was a constant of this element of communication technology.
I think Ellul's theory of image and word has some interesting implications. Within this environment, the two are completely synonymous. The piece of paper held up to call a play means the exact same thing as the play call itself. The play call relates entirely to a reality and not so much to truth. As the two blend, it is incredible to consider if this applies to other areas of life.
In addition to Ellul's theory, the Umbrella Perspective can be applied. Comparing the audio forms used in professional and college levels to the high school word-of-mouth form is ridiculous. Any player would say that having the coach call a play in your ear is the best way to get it. Any coach would say that the ability to call a play at any time is invaluable.
Also, one of the 3 Immutable Laws is kind of negated in this. These comtechs and pace are inversely related. This slows things down and allows the coach to set a slower pace that is not so chaotic.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Entry 11
Within this post, I would like to discuss the development and implications of the online church. Fueled from online discussion, I am incredible interested in how we define church traditionally, and if that definition changes online.
Primarily, looking at the concept of Simmel's Social Distance theory, the online church would be a negative influence in the heart of spirituality. Our understanding of Jesus is that he was and is a completely personal God who has a heart for touching people. Although the way this is communicated to us is perceivably distant, we cannot deny the implications of Jesus' life. An online church would considerably deteriorate one of Jesus' main points of ministry: touch. The laying on of hands, the lifting of the crippled, the embracing of children are each intricate pieces within the ministry of Jesus. Keeping the Social Distance Theory in mind, I do not think we can use the online church as a substitute for the community experienced throughout the history of the church.
In addition to Simmel's theory, Postman's questions can play a significant role in determining the effects of online church. The first question--what problem is being solved--is obviously the inconvenience of a global church, or at least a church with very widespread membership. The second--who is harmed--would fall in line with the composition of the organizational church. All churches would be hurt if online "churching" becomes more prevalent. The third question--new problems--addresses the social implications of an online community of believers. Similar to the social distance factors, the online church would struggle with this new interpretation of church. Would baptisms and weddings be conducted online? The fourth and final question--new power--implies how the church structure and authority would change. With such a broad range of people, how do we determine pastorship, mentorship, and other elements. Do they disappear? Is it limited to the most technologically oriented Christians?
Overall, the online church seems to have far too many holes to fill before being a legitimate substitution for church community.
On the other hand, if we look at the early church, we see that it was born out of an existing community. Today, the case is
Primarily, looking at the concept of Simmel's Social Distance theory, the online church would be a negative influence in the heart of spirituality. Our understanding of Jesus is that he was and is a completely personal God who has a heart for touching people. Although the way this is communicated to us is perceivably distant, we cannot deny the implications of Jesus' life. An online church would considerably deteriorate one of Jesus' main points of ministry: touch. The laying on of hands, the lifting of the crippled, the embracing of children are each intricate pieces within the ministry of Jesus. Keeping the Social Distance Theory in mind, I do not think we can use the online church as a substitute for the community experienced throughout the history of the church.
In addition to Simmel's theory, Postman's questions can play a significant role in determining the effects of online church. The first question--what problem is being solved--is obviously the inconvenience of a global church, or at least a church with very widespread membership. The second--who is harmed--would fall in line with the composition of the organizational church. All churches would be hurt if online "churching" becomes more prevalent. The third question--new problems--addresses the social implications of an online community of believers. Similar to the social distance factors, the online church would struggle with this new interpretation of church. Would baptisms and weddings be conducted online? The fourth and final question--new power--implies how the church structure and authority would change. With such a broad range of people, how do we determine pastorship, mentorship, and other elements. Do they disappear? Is it limited to the most technologically oriented Christians?
Overall, the online church seems to have far too many holes to fill before being a legitimate substitution for church community.
On the other hand, if we look at the early church, we see that it was born out of an existing community. Today, the case is
Monday, November 19, 2007
Entry 10
This post will discuss the topic of home video. I think it will be very interesting to see how video editing and producing will begin to transform communication. As streaming technology develops, the ability to file share videos will become as readily available as sharing audio files. Although everyone's interest in video is not at the same level as the interest in music or audio, it is still interesting to consider the possibility as the technology becomes more and more user friendly.
The primary consideration must be the necessity of the comtech. Currently, video is not as common as text or audio communication, but YouTube is making ground in this area. Simmel's social distance theory takes some of this into consideration. Text is generally considered the furthest perception of social distance, while audio seems to narrow the gap of intimacy. In this sense, a video comtech would allow for a great perception of intimacy between the communicating parties. It would simulate face to face communication despite the obvious distance. The perception is the key piece in this concept.
Another consideration is the availability of home video. There could be a considerable amount of blurs in the area of privacy. As YouTube has found, there is a huge struggle with monitoring the nature of the videos available for the public. The loss of shame referred to in Postman's theory comes to mind, especially the example of pornography in relation to the internet. YouTube has had a battle with inappropriate material and can only foresee it getting more difficult with the development of video technology.
The primary consideration must be the necessity of the comtech. Currently, video is not as common as text or audio communication, but YouTube is making ground in this area. Simmel's social distance theory takes some of this into consideration. Text is generally considered the furthest perception of social distance, while audio seems to narrow the gap of intimacy. In this sense, a video comtech would allow for a great perception of intimacy between the communicating parties. It would simulate face to face communication despite the obvious distance. The perception is the key piece in this concept.
Another consideration is the availability of home video. There could be a considerable amount of blurs in the area of privacy. As YouTube has found, there is a huge struggle with monitoring the nature of the videos available for the public. The loss of shame referred to in Postman's theory comes to mind, especially the example of pornography in relation to the internet. YouTube has had a battle with inappropriate material and can only foresee it getting more difficult with the development of video technology.
Entry 9
This post will discuss the presentation concerning virtual reality. I think it was an incredible presentation that introduced some connections I had never made. I had always thought that it pertained most closely to gaming technology, but I had no idea of some of the technology available in this field.
First, I had no idea this was being used in medical fields. Using this as a pshychological tool to treat trauma victims and even psychotherapy patients is something I had never considered. I see immediately the benefits of this, especially considering how many younger people are able to immerse themselves in digital and cyber worlds. There is already a blurred line between reality and cybernetic worlds that it is not hard to imagine the possibilities of creating that for a patient. It seems to connect to Simmel's social distance theory. These technologies are able to seperate the patient from the intimate relationship between scalpal and flesh.
Secondly, I think the ability to communicate by brain activity is ridiculous. If there is a chip that allows us to control electronic devices via a computer, we could, in theory, network our minds. This is a somewhat scary thought. This definitely relates to social distance. Essentially, our minds are networked instantly despite distance. There is almost no space for theoretical "noise" between what our minds wish to communicate and the messages others hear. It is an instantaneous message translated only by a computer program. The programming of this soft and hardware is the only communication device involved in this process. Creepy.
First, I had no idea this was being used in medical fields. Using this as a pshychological tool to treat trauma victims and even psychotherapy patients is something I had never considered. I see immediately the benefits of this, especially considering how many younger people are able to immerse themselves in digital and cyber worlds. There is already a blurred line between reality and cybernetic worlds that it is not hard to imagine the possibilities of creating that for a patient. It seems to connect to Simmel's social distance theory. These technologies are able to seperate the patient from the intimate relationship between scalpal and flesh.
Secondly, I think the ability to communicate by brain activity is ridiculous. If there is a chip that allows us to control electronic devices via a computer, we could, in theory, network our minds. This is a somewhat scary thought. This definitely relates to social distance. Essentially, our minds are networked instantly despite distance. There is almost no space for theoretical "noise" between what our minds wish to communicate and the messages others hear. It is an instantaneous message translated only by a computer program. The programming of this soft and hardware is the only communication device involved in this process. Creepy.
Entry 8
In this post, I wish to discuss the benefits of multi-purpose comtechs. Specifically smart phones. In class, we talked about the possibility of Wi-Fi and Internet ready phones taking the place of laptops and personal computers. A few thoughts and two subjects: 1) the integration of comtechs, and 2) the possible phasing in and out of comtechs.
The first part plays steadily into the 3 immutable laws. However, I think there are some exceptions. I think it directly reflects the second law considering how new comtechs relate to convenience. The ability to synchronize phone, internet, email, pda, scheduler, and others into one comtech is extremely valuable. Usually you have to wait til you get to a computer to check your email, but now you can check email and make a phone call simultaneously. In addition, you could hop on the internet and look up directions. There are so many ways in which this adds convenience to my life. However, I do not think this ties in very closely to the first law. I do not believe this speeds up your life. In fact, I believe the opposite is true. If I leave a class, I can check my email, make a phone call, and schedule a meeting before I get home. The multi-tasking capabilites, in my opinion, create more time and allow you to slow down once you return home. However, I guess this depends on the person.
In consideration of how this might replace personal computers, I do not think the size is convenient for extended surfing or word processing. It is great for on the go stuff, but it is difficult to operate for extended periods of time and not very convenient. Even at this point, the Diffusion Theory has begun and more people are using portable internet technology, but it has not replaced an established comtech. In fact, there has been an increasing in the synching technology which would suggest the importance of the relationship between the two products.
The first part plays steadily into the 3 immutable laws. However, I think there are some exceptions. I think it directly reflects the second law considering how new comtechs relate to convenience. The ability to synchronize phone, internet, email, pda, scheduler, and others into one comtech is extremely valuable. Usually you have to wait til you get to a computer to check your email, but now you can check email and make a phone call simultaneously. In addition, you could hop on the internet and look up directions. There are so many ways in which this adds convenience to my life. However, I do not think this ties in very closely to the first law. I do not believe this speeds up your life. In fact, I believe the opposite is true. If I leave a class, I can check my email, make a phone call, and schedule a meeting before I get home. The multi-tasking capabilites, in my opinion, create more time and allow you to slow down once you return home. However, I guess this depends on the person.
In consideration of how this might replace personal computers, I do not think the size is convenient for extended surfing or word processing. It is great for on the go stuff, but it is difficult to operate for extended periods of time and not very convenient. Even at this point, the Diffusion Theory has begun and more people are using portable internet technology, but it has not replaced an established comtech. In fact, there has been an increasing in the synching technology which would suggest the importance of the relationship between the two products.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Entry 7
The overhead projector, specifically used for presentations, has transformed many spheres that rely on a structural presentation format. There are two different settings I would like to discuss.
The business setting has seen a radical transformation in presentation styles. An old-style easel with flip pages was the standard for a time. However, with the increasing need for strong, visual sales presentations, powerpoint presentations became the new standard. The ability to insert charts, graphs, pictures with ease and speed quickly gave the overhead video projector a one up.
The classroom setting is another place where this comtech has exploded. Few professors and teachers rely on anything less than a powerpoint presentation, and, consequently, expect nothing less than that from students.
Overall, Jacques Ellul's theory comes to mind in reference to image and truth. This method of presentation and communication brings both into effect. We definitely see the importance of image within this comtech. In the classroom, we are so used to digesting text and lecture that a picture can be a soothing presence to our mind. While we are flooded with truth, a picture can bring it back to reality. In the business world, charts and graphs provide a reality to the numbers. A picture of the product can induce more feelings and prove more persuasive than any sales demo.
However, Neil Postman's question about new problems being created is interesting to consider. I have noticed this in my own class presentations. Students are becoming more reliant on the ppt structure to lead their presentations. There is no need to memorize the information when you have an outline right in front of you. This comes up most apparently when there is a lack of fluid transitions. There is an abrupt shift in thought and speech when the slide is switched. Obviously, good students will still realize the importance of their oral presentation. That is one problem this comtech has created.
The business setting has seen a radical transformation in presentation styles. An old-style easel with flip pages was the standard for a time. However, with the increasing need for strong, visual sales presentations, powerpoint presentations became the new standard. The ability to insert charts, graphs, pictures with ease and speed quickly gave the overhead video projector a one up.
The classroom setting is another place where this comtech has exploded. Few professors and teachers rely on anything less than a powerpoint presentation, and, consequently, expect nothing less than that from students.
Overall, Jacques Ellul's theory comes to mind in reference to image and truth. This method of presentation and communication brings both into effect. We definitely see the importance of image within this comtech. In the classroom, we are so used to digesting text and lecture that a picture can be a soothing presence to our mind. While we are flooded with truth, a picture can bring it back to reality. In the business world, charts and graphs provide a reality to the numbers. A picture of the product can induce more feelings and prove more persuasive than any sales demo.
However, Neil Postman's question about new problems being created is interesting to consider. I have noticed this in my own class presentations. Students are becoming more reliant on the ppt structure to lead their presentations. There is no need to memorize the information when you have an outline right in front of you. This comes up most apparently when there is a lack of fluid transitions. There is an abrupt shift in thought and speech when the slide is switched. Obviously, good students will still realize the importance of their oral presentation. That is one problem this comtech has created.
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