Writing in Interactive media

This semester has been tough. Not being a technical writer, I learned quite a few things about projects and especially writing in various forms. Although the assignments were sometimes difficult, I must say that I really did enjoy this class. I learned so much about all the components of writing for media and what goes into it. I will always appreciate websites and other forms of media a bit more, knowing the kind of effort that is put into them. But now, as the semester draws to a close, I must reflect on the impact of this class. Because of my integrated studies program, and my different, and very opposite subject matters, I don't think that a career in interactive media is for me. I like writing, I like all the technologies that we have, but I don't see myself as a writer. I have written blogs as a job, once, and I found it very difficult to stay motivated and make my writing interesting. (I wrote about banks, bonds, and accounts) After that, I really have not looked into media writing as an option. Perhaps I could write as a side-job, where I write at my own pace, on subjects that I find interesting. My career focus is focused on face-to-face interactions. Like I said earlier, I love all the technology that we have, but I have seen the effects first hand of the problems that can be associated. It is just easier to avoid the problem altogether. Everything in moderation :) But, I shouldn't say never either...

I think that we will always have to be conscious of writing for interactive media because technology is becoming more and more versatile, as well as an integral part of our lives, so, I think it is just something we have to keep in mind.

I am so glad that I was able to be a part of the group I was in. It was nice to see familiar faces-Lisa and Dan, and it was very nice to meet Michelle.

You guys! It was fun! You were a great group to work with and will miss you all after the semester is over. Hopefully we have another class together, but I think that my English coursework is nearly complete. So, good luck with the rest of your classes. I know you will be great writers, in business, education, and law, or wherever your lives take you. Hopefully I'll see ya around after the semester is over. Thanks for an awesome semester in ENG 3180. Have a great break!!! Be  safe :)

And to Dr. Bacabac,
Thank you so much for making this such a great class. I will definitely recommend you to my other peers if they need an English credit. It's been a pleasure to be one of your students. Have a great break! I'll see you next spring in Grant writing.

Scholarly Article #5

Anne Wysocki's article, What Do Technical Communicators Need to Know about New Media was very interesting. Everyday I use my computer, my laptop, watch tv, etc...but I really never  give thought to  how it is going to adjust with the changing times and technology. Facebook, websites, and even books are updated, with just a few changes, but are still different. And, as users, we expect updates. Technical communicators have to ask themselves rhetorical questions to understand their audience and make sure that their messages are clear.

I really like how she drew attention to all the advantages that media gives us as far as communicating. Print used to be the only thing that we could use, but now, we are able to send and receive messages instantaneously. We can email files instead of mailing and keep up with events across the world through internet. But one question struck me as I read this, where is media headed? In the beginning of the article, Wysocki describes a future where the virtual world is nearly real. Devices are worn to maintain interactivity with an alternate world. I began to wonder, will we really ever reach that point? Will we let ourselves reach that point? I know it really doesn't pertain to the article, but it just made me think.

Another interesting point that she brings up is the educational portion of gaming. I can understand her viewpoint with her supporting details and citations. And I do agree with her argument, but,it also made me wonder a few things. Like why do we have to stimulate ourselves all the time, just in order to learn something.  And what will the long term effects of constant stimulation be if we continue to subject ourselves to media in all its forms? As great as media stimulation can be to help us learn, humans have been able to learn the same things without media for a long time.

Overall, I enjoyed this article because it brought up several important points that I think are important to analyze and reflect upon. I liked the questions  that were asked for the new median and, tools, and audience. I think they began the reflection upon what new media is doing, and as far as the audience, covered the main points that are critical.