Modern Day Romeo & Juliet

Sean Kingston Beautiful Girls Sample Lyrics

You're way too beautiful girl
That's why it will never work
You'll have me suicidal, suicidal
When you say it's over
Damn all these beautiful girls
They only wanna do you dirt
They'll have you suicidal, suicidal
When they say it's over

Now we are fussing and now we are fighting
please tell me why, I'm feeling slighted
and i don't know, how to make it better
your dating other guys, your telling me lies
oh I can't believe what I'm seeing with my eyes
I'm losing my mind, and I don't think it's clever

This song is an example of how suicide among young couples is romanticized in the media. The text Media Literacy, states "Vulnerable and emotional teens of both exes often perceive the loss of a relationship as fatal, but girls are more willing that their male peers to kill themselves over the loss of love" (pp.497). I first came to understand couple suicide in high school with the famously noted play by Shakespeare "Romeo & Juliet". This very romantic storyline reveals a disturbing reality for many young people. It is a dangerous game when two fragile teenagers intertwine their lives so much so that the threat of separation leaves them hopeless. What is scary is the fact that young teens often rely on others to define their existence. Furthermore relationships for vulnerable teens that have not formed their identity away from their peer groups can lead to dangerous realities. I think that especially during ones youth, life can feel so dramatized, being teased, not having the right clothes, losing the game or breaking up can feel like the end of the world. What we as influential figures have to teach today’s youth is that these things don't solely define them. Teens in this day and age are battling cyber bullying and impressionable media messages; with all of these elements teens have to develop their self esteem and be able to adopt effective problem solving skills.

Lives of the Young & Dead

Kelly Rowland - Stole

The video above by Kelly Rowland, tells the story a young man who was alienated by his peers at school and decided to take his life with a gun in the bathroom. This video also highlights how the life of a fellow classmate was changed after she found him. I really think this video is important because it allows us to see how a teenager whose life is isolated and lonely could cause them to take drastic measures to end their life. This video also shows us the effects our words or actions may have on some who is vulnerable.

When I think back on all the school shootings there seems to be a reoccurring theme; the perpetrator is often someone who was isolated and an outcast from their peers. I also noticed that the perpetrator often male, kills them self in a violent rage after taking the lives of many. School shootings have become a popular trend among troubled youth and this is partly because of the media's glamorized image of the perpetrator. We often hear more about the shooter and their life as oppose to the victim. More disturbing are signs that we as educator and fellow peers ignore.

In class we discussed the shocking rate of teens who commit suicide, what was even more shocking were the number of websites that promoted the successful efforts of teens who desire to kill them self. These websites are appalling and do nothing for teens that are in a bad place, they turn to these sites as a form of crying out, seeking solitude in finding someone desolate like them, but instead they find sick minded individuals encouraging them to kill themselves rather than deal with life.

Look up in the sky, it's a bird, it's a plane... No it's Supergirl

Power puff girls and several other girl super heroes, have managed to break through stereotypes of the typical male hero. In these programs we begin to view women and girls as not the “damsel in distress” in need of a male savoir but rather as the very capable hero. These shows have an empowering message for girls who are usually the delicate princess in need of rescuing. Not only are these girls hero's, they are attractive and intellectual as well.

One of my favourite super hero's is elastic girl from "The Incredibles", in this character we see a woman who has it all; she is sexy, can cook diner and save the world all in a day’s work. To me her sexiness and ability to be desirable are important traits because she does not have to become this butch, or muscled being to take on the world. Therefore the mould of a super hero does not only have to exist within masculine traits and I think this image being portrayed is empowering for women. Even more popular is the program "Totally spies", where young teenage girls are the ones battling secret identities and saving the world. The idea here is that women are smart and capable and no longer need prince charming to rescue them from the perils of the world. "Riordan describes the logic behind girl power; “if we start to value girls more an celebrate their culture, girls in turn will feel positive about themselves and will achieve higher self-esteem" (Media literacy 396) It is so important for young girls to see themselves as contributors in society beyond the home front. The world is changing and girls can be super heroes too!

Disney and Sexism

I found this movie very revealing in terms of uncovering some of the stereotypes in regards to women and men and their roles within society. As a child and even now as an adult I love Disney films, I find that they are entertaining and allow children to believe that dreams can come true. At times I find it hard to critique Disney films because there are some things in life that I view as pure entertainment. When I went to Disney land for the first time I was overcome with this magical and fun element and I think that it is important for children to have that opportunity especially growing up. My fear is that when we start to dissect these films, we loose the innocence and fun within them. Children don't want to be bombarded with all these adult realities. As a child there is nothing wrong with wanting to be a princess but they also have to know that they can be lawyers and doctors as well and not limit themselves to typical women dominated fields.

Even more striking, revealed in this short film are the expectations for male characters within many Disney movies. Often the main male character is dubbed with strong muscles, bravery and chivalry traits (Gaston, Beast, Aladdin, Cinderella’s Prince). All other characters that do not fit this mould are simply the side kicks or bumbling fools who get in the way of a real mans work. (Belle's father, Gaston's sidekick, Quasimodo) Focus on such physical appearances, may leave young men with values that are unrealistic.



I also acknowledge that the messages these movies send have an impact on the way children view the world and therefore Disney should also keep in mind that we can entertain and empower at the same time.

Race and Media

As a product of racism myself I am proud to say that I have seen an improvement in the way the African American culture has been portrayed on television. When I look back shows like "The Cosby's" and "Fresh Prince of Bel-air" provided a refreshing view of the usual portrayal of poor black families living in the hood. These shows were about dispelling some of those stereotypes and replacing them with positive images. For me it was a new goal, something better to look forward to. The text states, "the increasing visibility of entertainers of color, the supposed changes in artists' possibilities, and the adoration America has for Denzel Washington, Jay-Z , Halle Berry, and Will Smith are posited as evidence of racial progress an color blindness( Media Literacy pp. 199). Obama holding one of the highest positions in the world as a black man is self evident in the progress that has been made. Like the Cosby family, African American families who are typically bombarded with images of fatherless homes, Obama although a product of this stereotype allows us to recognize that our past makes no excuses for striving for a better tomorrow. One reality show that I am particularly impressed with is "Baldwin Hills" their opening line for the show is "Not all black people live in the ghetto; some of us are the children of successful lawyers, doctors, actors and athletes". I find this opening statement to be empowering because it portrays a more positive image for African Americans. This show stems from the popular reality show "The Hills" where young white females from wealthy families are often the model for success. In this program you rarely see people of minority groups and this is evident of society’s view of culture and success.


Although this might be a small percentage of blacks, negative images of hustlers, drug dealers, single mothers and rappers are not all the black community has to offer and a continuous portrayal of these although true images just continues to perpetuate the cycle. I believe that when youth see "Grey's Anatomy" and "ER" with young black doctors they begin to broaden their horizons and therefore these limited expectations become excuses of the past.

Reponse to "SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE"

In class we watched what I felt was a brilliant movie. Although I have never been to India, the portrayal of class and poverty were highlighted themes within the movie. It's depiction of filthy children playing baseball on a tarmac and running through fields of trash where people live is one of the striking images that called attention to India's environment. The children’s' ability to survive on their own after there mothers death relied on the provisions of their local garbage dumb. When we compare this to North American societies this kind of life for a child would be simply unacceptable. What was even more troubling was when a seemingly savoir comes onto the scene and takes the children to his home; however it is merely for his gains (prostitution and theft). This film uncovers the mass of corruption that exists within India and it reveals a stunning reality that makes India one of the most prevalent capitals of child slavery. When your justice system is corrupt it creates a society wherein everyone is living for them self; where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. It is interesting that the premise of the movie is based on an American program often referred to by Latika as a "chance to escape"; this highlights the view that the "American dream" is the best dream. That like many of our programs such as Gossip girls, money equals power. Chapter 28 states "Only few films highlight social issues, and the ones that address these issues don't become "hits” at the box office" (Media literacy 336). That’s why I think that the rawness of this movie is what makes it so captivating. Although it has a Hollywood feel to it, it is very much authentic in keeping with the culture of India.

Changing with the Times

Chapter three of our text “Rethinking Technology in Schools” discusses the rapid growth of life changing technologies within the past 50 years. I am rather interested in this topic because as a teacher these continuous changes have an effect on the way we teach. I believe that it important to keep up because it will allow us to be more effective in the way we impart knowledge. It can become overwhelming to stay on top of all the new gadgets and gizmos, so where do we draw the line and how do we know what are relevant and most important to include into the pedagogy. I remember a while back during one of the school shootings cell phones which were prohibited in the classroom, became a comforting source of contact for worried family members.

Domine states “arguably one of the most controversial and influential communications technology to date is the internet.” (56) I believe the fear surrounding the internet is valid because of the easy access other people have to our youth; with a visit to someone’s Facebook page which many children have, predators can easily access vulnerable youth. Although the internet requires consistent monitoring, I have used programs such as the smart board and several educational sites (ABRACADABRA and Starfall.com) within the classroom with students as young as six. The educational value was very apparent because students were able to practice and apply basic skills they are leaning within the classroom. As a teacher I think it is my job to keep students interested and even if that means changing with the times and adapting old with new methods.

Media Soilders

What is war? Do we really know? War to me is ugly and never really justified. Many of us only know of war, myself included from what we see in the media and what we read in the history books. But whose history are we learning, only that of America or of the world? As mentioned in our text in chapter 6 our ideas of war are plagued by movies like Rambo, showing one side of history, making our enemies look like savaged demons. Last I checked it takes two to tango. Before 9/11 Bush and his administration were warned of terrorist attacks; however, those warnings were arrogantly ignored. After the attack CNN and many news stations feed us the mission of conquering Osama in Afghanistan, the next thing we hear is the hanging of Hussein. WHAT!? I’m no genius but did America go totally off course? While I won’t cry for Hussein because he met his faith, I am still distraught that nearly 9 years later we are still watching babies loose their mothers and fathers; we are still witnessing children leave the earth before their parents at a rapid rate. Let’s not also forget that more of Iraqi children have died since this war; some part of the war holding rifles bigger than them and others merely living out their childhood. Who wins the war? I can’t help but feel nobody is a winner; too many lives were lost and will be lost for there to ever be a winner, shall we count the dead bodies to tally a score perhaps? While I am hopeful that President Obama will bring this war to a close, I wonder if we have yet learned from our past mistakes. In the famous words of Marvin Gaye Perhaps "War is not the answer". This war has gone on for too long while Britney Spears and Lindsey Lohan's love affairs plague our news stations; surely those dying for our freedom deserve more press cover. CNN does its best but are we really interested in those dying overseas when we can find out the latest beef between Beyonce and Etta James?

"Exploring Media: Digital Photo Album"

My Life as a Seventh Day Adventist



The one thing in my daily life that has remained constant over the years is my faith. Although my practice as a Seventh day Adventist is one aspect of my existence it affects many areas of my daily life. The pictures I have chosen illustrate how my religion impacts my day to day life and my learning outcomes outside of school.

Family worship is very important in my family, although we all have very busy lives my mother makes sure that at least once a week on Friday’s we gather together to welcome the Sabbath. When I was younger my mother and father would make sure to wake up myself and 5 other siblings around 6 o’clock for prayer to start the day. This was something I was too young to appreciate but now having the family all together every Friday is one of the many memories I cherish. This aspect of my life teaches me the importance of family as a safe base to learn from each other and communicate.

Every Friday I prepare a Sabbath meal, iron my clothes and make sure to get everything ready before the sunset. Even scheduling my classes at McGill have to be taken into consideration because once the sunsets on Friday I must be prepared to welcome the Sabbath. During my Sabbath hours (Friday sunset to Saturday sundown), I abstain from watching television, or using my computer and this observance is called my day of rest to show my appreciation to God for keeping me safe during the week. I used to believe that I lost a good two days of studying on the weekend because of my Sabbath but I now can appreciate that the time I spend resting rejuvenates me for the work I have ahead. The Sabbath teaches me to take time to enjoy life away from the fast paced world.

My faith influences the music I listen to, the food I eat and even the books I read. Although I listen to R&B, Reggae, and Pop music, I especially appreciate Gospel music because I am always reminded to carefully guard my mind with positive messages. Although my parents are completely Vegetarian I am not; however, my faith practices do influence the foods I eat. I do not eat pork, lobster, shrimp and several other listed foods in the Bible. My Bible teaches me about the importance of healthy eating habits. My favourite book is the “Holy Bible”, in fact my family’s most prized possession is the Bible my mother's father gave her that was his father’s; it is especially precious because both of them are dead and yet this book will live to teach for many generations to come. The Bible is my favourite book because it teaches me many things I need to know to live a fulfilling life.

Every Saturday I coordinate morning activities and teach classes for the children at my church. This is something I truly enjoy and having the opportunity to share my beliefs with the youth in my church and be a role model for them gives me a satisfaction beyond any material gains. Through working with these youth I learn how to become a better teacher.

Painting is a hobby that I really enjoy, my most favourite things to paint from are God’s creation and I take advantage of being outdoors especially in the summer to become inspired. On the wall in my living room is my favourite prayer about accepting life as it comes and making an impact on the world for the better where I can, I believe it is through this prayer I seek to become a great teacher.

We are what we see?

Media Literacy, Chapter 30 "Buying and Selling Culture" by Quail et al, discusses the impact of talk show contents among consumers. I was very intrigued by this topic because I frequently watch talk shows, such as Oprah, Maury, and Dr. Phil. In fact I have gone out on many occasions during one of Oprah's book club shows to glance at some of the books she has recommended. It is extremely evident the amount of power Oprah has as a leader within our society, just take a look at her open support for President Obama and the response of her audience. This questions however; "the effects that these shows have on home audiences' psyches, relationships and careers" (p.353). We are entertained by these shows but we are also giving back to these shows and their advertising agencies. These shows are able to reach thousands of people within 1 hour, also creating thousands of consumers for their products. In fact the way in which many of these shows are set up appeal to our desires, needs and wants. Celebrities create the loyal platform and appeal for us to buy these products often equating status with many of their brands. Quail et al, claim they make us believe that a problem exists and then slap us with the solution that we must have to lead happier lives (Dr. Phil's self help books). Creating a panic also works as well "while quantities last" (p. 356) hence the illusion that everybody has this need and we have to make sure we get this happy pill. I agree that I am a loyal audience of Oprah and trust that whatever she puts her name to is well thought of and worth buying, however; I am able to make educated consumer choices beyond Oprah's options and I believe that while they have the media power we are the consumers that choose to keep them on top.

http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=UkwxghqoCG4

Here are a few pictures from my vacation in Cuba!

Fiction or Fact

In class we discussed a variety of media; mainly television shows. I think that many of these shows cater to our fantasy of living lavish and exciting lives. I personally watch shows like "One TreeHill", "90210" and "The Hills" because I find them enteratining and a great way to unwind from my day. I am currently very intrigued by this show called "True Beauty"; it is about several contestants who compete and go through a series of tests to prove who is the most physicaly attractive. The twist of the show is that contestants are judeged on their character rather than their outward appearance. I think this show is excellent because with so much media perpetuating physical appearance as what is valued most, we want to foster people with kind and compassionate hearts. I think that televison programs have the power to send meaningful messages and still be entertaining, howver at the end of the day we have to develop an understanding of what is fiction and fact; real world versus fantasy.

Kids Today!

Today in class we discussed the fast past society in which we are growing up in. Many children are cultured to rely on technology as their main source of communication, social network and education tool. As mentioned in our text book "Rethinking technology in schools" by Domine the term "technology" must be redefined as being the medium of knowledge. With this definition, I believe it is important to recognize that technology and education go hand in hand. I understand that technology is not and should not be this foreign concept to us as teachers but rather a continuing dialogue between people and the tools we use to facilitate our lifestyles.

I believe that because we are constantly surrounded by a sea of knowledge accessible at the click of a button, technology can be very influential. I recognize that media has a massive influence on the way we think, and so do production companies or else they would not spend millions on 30 second ads. I cannot count how many times I have seen a new product advertise on television and gone out to buy it; thus the issue is not the advertisement but rather the fact that I am able to ask myself critical questions such as why did I buy it, need it or want it? I think that while technology is rampant in our society it doesn't have to take on the form of some sort of invasion; it just means we as adults, parents and educators have to take a more active role in socializing today’s youth about making conscious and responsible choices when it comes to technology.

I grew up on television shows like, "Sesame Street" and "The Magic School Bus" which are wonderful educational tools for children. It is for this reason that I think that media should not be viewed or expected to replace the teacher or parent but instead help to facilitate the education process. I can relate to all four of the technology perspectives because each view offers a valid concern. While as a celebrant I am eager and willing to embrace technology, I recognize that I have to be an educated consumer, just as efficiently as a cultural critic. Technology has changed the way we communicate, the language we use, loss of face to face interactions but we have to understand this is the time in which Kids today are growing up in. It is happening but I believe the answer lies in us as educators being able to open up a dialogue, and keep ourselves informed about what our Kids today find relevant to their lives.

Welcome!

Welcome! Everyone has something to say!
During the course of this semester I intend to refelect on Media technology and the impact it has in my life. As a teacher I feel that it is my responsiblity to stay on top of what today's youth are faced with and find ways to incorporate those elements that are meaningful to them into my classroom.

This is my platform to speak my mind, READ & ENJOY...


Mary