Saturday, September 20, 2003
In response to paul's post, how appropriate that in this country the potency of a candidate is measured in dollars, and with good reason. I hear that in Japan there's a lot more endorsement by movie stars. While this is still terrible method of selecting who to put in charge, it should have the benefit of being marginally more entertaining. :)
I also see that Kelly's posted a bit on the NCLB act, which is our group's focus for the large project. This is awexome, because i was wondering if we were allowed to discuss our findings here as we went along. By far the best statistics i've encountered so far are the calculations NH made on the costs of implementing the NCLB act vs how much they're to be reimbursed. Their finds:
Cost to implement per student: $575
Reimbursement per student: $77
The entire state going broke to keep in accordance with federal law: unenpriceable.
And who says politics isn't a hoot? I'm also concerned that although the class is largely (though not totally) pursuing these issues in small splinter groups, we're still to weave them into a coherent web of pertinent issues. Surely when these issues were selected independently by each group, we weren't anticipating this. I guess they can be tied together by the thread that was already there when we chose them- they're all political issues in the next election- but beyond that linking them will probably require some ingenuity.
I also see that Kelly's posted a bit on the NCLB act, which is our group's focus for the large project. This is awexome, because i was wondering if we were allowed to discuss our findings here as we went along. By far the best statistics i've encountered so far are the calculations NH made on the costs of implementing the NCLB act vs how much they're to be reimbursed. Their finds:
Cost to implement per student: $575
Reimbursement per student: $77
The entire state going broke to keep in accordance with federal law: unenpriceable.
And who says politics isn't a hoot? I'm also concerned that although the class is largely (though not totally) pursuing these issues in small splinter groups, we're still to weave them into a coherent web of pertinent issues. Surely when these issues were selected independently by each group, we weren't anticipating this. I guess they can be tied together by the thread that was already there when we chose them- they're all political issues in the next election- but beyond that linking them will probably require some ingenuity.
Topic: Campaign Finance Reform
The most surprising thing I've encountered so far has been how much more money Bush has raised so far towards his 2004 election campaign than any other presidential contendor. According to cnn.com, Bush has raised nearly $35 million, more than twice as much as Kerry's $16 million, who is the next highest grossing candidate at this point. On further reflection, though, I realized that actually made sense... Bush is enjoying the support of the entire Republican contigent, whereas Democratic contributions are split between nearly a dozen major contendors. When Bush's total contributions of $35 million are compared against total DEMOCRATIC contributions of $59 million, the picture appears much different.
The most surprising thing I've encountered so far has been how much more money Bush has raised so far towards his 2004 election campaign than any other presidential contendor. According to cnn.com, Bush has raised nearly $35 million, more than twice as much as Kerry's $16 million, who is the next highest grossing candidate at this point. On further reflection, though, I realized that actually made sense... Bush is enjoying the support of the entire Republican contigent, whereas Democratic contributions are split between nearly a dozen major contendors. When Bush's total contributions of $35 million are compared against total DEMOCRATIC contributions of $59 million, the picture appears much different.
Friday, September 19, 2003
Since beginning to research No Child Left Behind, the most surprising thing to me has been the incredibly low number of states who can actually meet the federal standards. As of the beginning of 2003, only 12 states were able to comply with even half of the federal requirements. Granted not all standards were scheduled to be met yet, but the number is still disturbing. It tells me that either expectations of No Child Left Behind are exceedingly lofty and unreachable, or that education in the US has been even worse off than I originally thought. Based on other research I have done concerning the act, I tend to lean toward the idea that the goals set by No Child Left Behind are simply too high for the timeline that has been set. This problem is compounded with the fact that the mandates set forth by NCLB are many times largely under funded or completely unfunded all together. It does no good to set lofty goals and expectations for the states without providing a means to get there.
Thursday, September 18, 2003
I agree with Brandon, in that getting this project to meld together should not be that difficult. I believe that the best way to do this will be to have one main page that discusses briefly the goals and purposes of the project along with a very short synopsis of what each groups issue are and then links to their individual pages. I also agree with Brandon that we should have a consistent font and layout throughout the links and the different issues this will help make the four individual projects seem more like one whole group project. The most important part to remember in this whole thing is that we need the projects to join together and project oneness while at the same time keeping the individuality of the seperate groups.
This project should mold together easily because we are all dealing with issues relevant to the upcoming election. I see the home page of the website as being a directory towards the four different issues. Each group can insert their information in the designated areas for their topic and this should allow for an observer to find information easily. I would like to integrate canidates' positions into the webpage but some of the groups are dealing with party views instead of individual canidates. As the project progresses this issue may need to be ironed out.
The format (font, color...etc.) needs to be consistent throughout the page. This will allow the reader to view the information without being distracted. Their should also be links within the site to other pages within the site. This makes the site a little more interesting and easier to negotiate.
The biggest pitfall I see is the conflict of interests between the groups. Each group member is focused primarily on his or her individual performance and places the conglomerate assignment second in the line of priorities. I think this issue needs to be addressed. Each group will design the wepage for thier topic and then try to fit it into the overall class assignment. By doing this each group will need to be flexible in altering the format, organization , or some other aspect of the project. Let's try to work together now to avoid and conflicts in the future. I don't think anyone wants to make significant changes after they have completed their project.
The format (font, color...etc.) needs to be consistent throughout the page. This will allow the reader to view the information without being distracted. Their should also be links within the site to other pages within the site. This makes the site a little more interesting and easier to negotiate.
The biggest pitfall I see is the conflict of interests between the groups. Each group member is focused primarily on his or her individual performance and places the conglomerate assignment second in the line of priorities. I think this issue needs to be addressed. Each group will design the wepage for thier topic and then try to fit it into the overall class assignment. By doing this each group will need to be flexible in altering the format, organization , or some other aspect of the project. Let's try to work together now to avoid and conflicts in the future. I don't think anyone wants to make significant changes after they have completed their project.
I disagree with the notion that students are apathetic towards the election and the insignificance of their vote. Many students do vote and care about their future presidents and leaders. Because a college campus is an extremely diverse environment, there exists many different views and concerns for students. The problem that arises is that many students don't agree with any of the candidates and therefore choose not to vote. In reality one vote does not make a difference, but if everyone held on to that idea than the entire voting system would be corrupted. Remeber one vote can and will make a difference! Not a difference that can be seen immediately, but instead one's vote represents the heart of our freedoms.
I think it is vital to be registered to vote. If then you choose not to vote, you are still voicing an opion: You don't feel any of the candidates deserve your vote. Another problem with canidates, as seen by students, is that they may not address the issues relevant to a college student. This is were the significance of the project can be seen. We are responsible, on a small scale, for directed information to the student body so that they may be more informed and better able to make decisions about their vote.
I think it is vital to be registered to vote. If then you choose not to vote, you are still voicing an opion: You don't feel any of the candidates deserve your vote. Another problem with canidates, as seen by students, is that they may not address the issues relevant to a college student. This is were the significance of the project can be seen. We are responsible, on a small scale, for directed information to the student body so that they may be more informed and better able to make decisions about their vote.
Everyone seems to be in agreement that the liason for each group be the person that serves as the go between for the individual groups and the larger collaborative project. It was my understanding from the beginning that this was the purpose of volunteering this individual. I, to some extent, can see that it may be an invitation to slack off some, but I instead see this an opportunity for the other members of the group to step up and fill in where the liason is drawn away for the collaborative project.
I think the idea of the main page displaying a list of pro and con summaries is an excellent idea. If we had some symolic icon in the middle with all the pros on the left and the cons on the right with a link to the full article associated with the icon in the middle, then people will be able to come to the site and read the summary of the arguments for and against one of our topics and if they are interested in it they can follow the link to the full article. This will obviously have to be discussed further by the decision group, but it is a good start.
I think the idea of the main page displaying a list of pro and con summaries is an excellent idea. If we had some symolic icon in the middle with all the pros on the left and the cons on the right with a link to the full article associated with the icon in the middle, then people will be able to come to the site and read the summary of the arguments for and against one of our topics and if they are interested in it they can follow the link to the full article. This will obviously have to be discussed further by the decision group, but it is a good start.
Wednesday, September 17, 2003
I don't remember where I saw it but around election time one magazine (maybe Time) came out with a table of the major issues with both perspectives. It really helped to see the issues in a simple format with the basic ideas. If we could maybe do something like that on the main page and then have links for more in depth information, it would be much easier to read. I like the idea about putting reasons why it is important to students. Sometimes even with all the information there, it's nice to have a clear explanation of why it might be pertinant to you. I don't really anticipate any problems as long as we can meet deadlines. I agree with Beth that if we break up the project into smaller components it will be easier to manage. I like the leadership idea as well, but it might make things easier if there were several "committees" that could deal with different aspects of the project like organization of the website, actually creating the website, design (how to make things noticeable), etc. It could be a way that everybody gets involved and has a say in something.
On website collaboration and leadership:
I think that it would be a good idea to work together as a class to develop a common format for the website. This can be easily accomplished by agreeing on a basic template (background, fonts, position of headers) and allow each group to fill in the template for their respective topics. This will make our individual pages appear more uniform, and consequently more professional. Otherwise, readers might get frustrated if they must adapt to a new format each time they follow a new link.
As far as group "liaisons" are concerned, I think that would be a good idea for each group to have a delegate who could help to coordinate efforts between the groups. However, like Kristian, I'm a little worried that the existence of such liaisons would be taken by the other members of each group as a license to slack off.
I think that it would be a good idea to work together as a class to develop a common format for the website. This can be easily accomplished by agreeing on a basic template (background, fonts, position of headers) and allow each group to fill in the template for their respective topics. This will make our individual pages appear more uniform, and consequently more professional. Otherwise, readers might get frustrated if they must adapt to a new format each time they follow a new link.
As far as group "liaisons" are concerned, I think that would be a good idea for each group to have a delegate who could help to coordinate efforts between the groups. However, like Kristian, I'm a little worried that the existence of such liaisons would be taken by the other members of each group as a license to slack off.
On the US/Islam forum on Friday, September 12:
I attended the "Clash of Civilizations" forum in the Student Senate Chambers last weekend. Dr. Fishman asked me to post a brief blog describing the issues that were discussed, so here goes!
There were three speakers:
Sean, a Clemson student, had been called up by the National Guard and fought in Iraq as part of the Army Corps of Engineers. He gave us a first-hand account of the things he saw, specifically his impressions of the Iraqi people and his glimpses of the terror they had endured under Hussein.
A muslim doctor from Columbia, SC (I forgot his name!), gave us an Islamic perspective on Jewish / Muslim relations and US foreign policy. He discussed the history of the tension in the Middle East, and described the fear that muslims in the US face (especially with the passage of the Patriot Act).
Dr. Doost, an Accounting professor here at Clemson, discussed the need for mutual understanding and brotherhood around the world. He cautioned us not to perceive terror the exclusive province of any one ethnic group, but rather a mentality that sprouts up all around the world, including America.
All in all, it was a profitable and informative forum. The audience wasn't very large, but those that were there asked a number of insightful questions. Most were directed at the muslim doctor, who responded with considerable aplomb.
I attended the "Clash of Civilizations" forum in the Student Senate Chambers last weekend. Dr. Fishman asked me to post a brief blog describing the issues that were discussed, so here goes!
There were three speakers:
Sean, a Clemson student, had been called up by the National Guard and fought in Iraq as part of the Army Corps of Engineers. He gave us a first-hand account of the things he saw, specifically his impressions of the Iraqi people and his glimpses of the terror they had endured under Hussein.
A muslim doctor from Columbia, SC (I forgot his name!), gave us an Islamic perspective on Jewish / Muslim relations and US foreign policy. He discussed the history of the tension in the Middle East, and described the fear that muslims in the US face (especially with the passage of the Patriot Act).
Dr. Doost, an Accounting professor here at Clemson, discussed the need for mutual understanding and brotherhood around the world. He cautioned us not to perceive terror the exclusive province of any one ethnic group, but rather a mentality that sprouts up all around the world, including America.
All in all, it was a profitable and informative forum. The audience wasn't very large, but those that were there asked a number of insightful questions. Most were directed at the muslim doctor, who responded with considerable aplomb.
Again, I agree with the whole website that leads to different links. My own response to Kristian's question, ("If we are to combine or rather integrate all of our individual projects into one cohesive project...should we all address the topics in the same tone and format or can we vary on the way in which the information is complied?" -Kristian) I think that we should somehow set up our different links in similar formats by somehow using bold headings within each one (ie. Intro, etc). Right now I do not know how we would set this up, but I think that the more we know about each others topics, the easier it will be to decide on a similar format. I would like to start out by reading other groups' outlines if it is at all possible.
As a side note, I agree with Kelly R. regarding the fact that each state should brush up its laws. I think that it is ridiculous that some of these laws still exist. Why have any laws if they are not enforced?
-Ashley K
As a side note, I agree with Kelly R. regarding the fact that each state should brush up its laws. I think that it is ridiculous that some of these laws still exist. Why have any laws if they are not enforced?
-Ashley K
I agree with the consensus so far that the best way to integrate the projects would be through a website which links to each of the specific projects. The projects themselves are only related in a general way, so to generalize each project in order to combine them into one I think is a bad idea. I don't think that the specifics of each project should be left out. In repsonse to Kristian's question "If we are to combine or rather integrate all of our individual projects into one cohesive project...should we all address the topics in the same tone and format or can we vary on the way in which the information is complied?" I feel that its necessary to be consistent to a certain extent, mainly for the purposes of organization and quality, but I also feel that its important for the tone of each group to vary somewhat. Each group should adapt the presentation of their project to meet the goals they are trying to achieve. Addressing an issue in a way specifically tailored to that issues context may be much more effective than having to worry about conforming to a certain paradigm that has been set forth for the entire class.
As it's been said before, communication will be very important to bringing our project together as a whole. Lack of communication will surely be detrimental to us. For that reason, it will be important for the assigned leaders of each group to update the other groups on the status of their project. The leaders will play a very important role in the collaboration of the project. They will be responsible for the relay of information, problems, and concerns between groups. This will help to keep everything running smoothely and remain organized.
As it's been said before, communication will be very important to bringing our project together as a whole. Lack of communication will surely be detrimental to us. For that reason, it will be important for the assigned leaders of each group to update the other groups on the status of their project. The leaders will play a very important role in the collaboration of the project. They will be responsible for the relay of information, problems, and concerns between groups. This will help to keep everything running smoothely and remain organized.
Since the purpose of this project is to inform the Clemson campus of some important issues for the 2004 election I feel that the best way to combine all of the topics would be like someone else mentioned, the main webpage that will be strictly dedicated to the election and have links to each groups individual projects. All of the topics really are different and I think we would lose the main goal of the project if we try to integrate them too much. I don't see where any linking could take place, but if we really could figure out a way to link all of our topics together and show our audience how they all influence each other, it could decrease some apathetic feelings. We want to give our audience a wide range of information that covers more than just one topic so I think keeping the individuality of each group is important, not only for the sake of making the project smoother, but also to prepare our audience for more than one general topic. Also, the sense of apathy runs rampant throughout our campus; therefore, if we integrate our topics too much we could run the risk of losing the interest of our audience especially if they are not into things that appear to be extremely "political."
As for organization, large headings within the webpage that will direct peoples interest in one direction or another can be helpful. Another option would be to put each groups topics in chronological order which can could show how they entered the political arena and what has resulted since. Potential pitfalls can pop up everywhere just because I still don't think that we all have a "crystal clear" view of what we are suppose to relay to our audience, but if that main issue gets cleared up I think that everything else will fall into place. The suggestion of a leadership team is a good way to organize and hopefully prevent the any pitfalls, but it is also a good way for the people who are not on the leadership team to slack off and not put a much effort into the project.
I do have one question...If we are to combine or rather integrate all of our individual projects into one cohesive project...should we all address the topics in the same tone and format or can we vary on the way in which the information is complied?
As for organization, large headings within the webpage that will direct peoples interest in one direction or another can be helpful. Another option would be to put each groups topics in chronological order which can could show how they entered the political arena and what has resulted since. Potential pitfalls can pop up everywhere just because I still don't think that we all have a "crystal clear" view of what we are suppose to relay to our audience, but if that main issue gets cleared up I think that everything else will fall into place. The suggestion of a leadership team is a good way to organize and hopefully prevent the any pitfalls, but it is also a good way for the people who are not on the leadership team to slack off and not put a much effort into the project.
I do have one question...If we are to combine or rather integrate all of our individual projects into one cohesive project...should we all address the topics in the same tone and format or can we vary on the way in which the information is complied?
Tuesday, September 16, 2003
I think Beth's idea of having a main website with links to sites on each of our projects is a good idea. And I think that on a main website, we could cover some of what Marcie posted about why we should care about voting. I think it would tie the project together well if we showed people why they should care about politics and exercise their right to vote, and then inform them on upcoming election issues.
I also think Kelly G's idea about having some kind of leadership might help. Either we need one person from each group to get together in a group that shares what's going on within each group, or we should post weekly notices about what each group is working on. Maybe in addition to each group promoting thier issues, we could also come up with some kind of flier that promotes the project as a whole.
just a few thoughts from my corner of the world...
--kelly r
I also think Kelly G's idea about having some kind of leadership might help. Either we need one person from each group to get together in a group that shares what's going on within each group, or we should post weekly notices about what each group is working on. Maybe in addition to each group promoting thier issues, we could also come up with some kind of flier that promotes the project as a whole.
just a few thoughts from my corner of the world...
--kelly r
To add to the discussion about voting, I'd like to agree with the whole picking one candidate issue. Like the previous election, it often seems like you can't really chose a candidate you really support, but rather "the lesser of two evils." Also, with so many election issues, what are you supposed to do when a candidate has your same view on one issue, but a completely different view with respect to a different issue?
On the whole apathy issue, I would have to say that I agree with you guys on the idea that most people feel that they are insignificant in the grand scheme of things. I myself feel like I can't do much to change things in the world. Today in class, as we were talking about airport security and the RIAA lawsuits, it was brought to my attention just how much these issues, that I know very little about, greatly affect me personally. Some of you guys mentioned some of the random little laws some states have that are not usually enforced. That really bothers me, and I feel like the government should go through and clean up some of the laws...I think if they are not going to actively enforce a law, maybe they should consider not making it a law. Also, the whole idea that the government could be investigating my actions on my computer without informing me really bothers me also. My question is, now that I have realized how I feel on these issues, what am I supposed to do with those feelings? I honestly would like to act on my feelings, but I don't see how one little voice in a nation of how many millions would ever be heard. And, I don't know what I could do to try and be heard. I think that informing people of what's going on in the nation does encourage them to want to act on certain issues, but I have a feeling that most people don't know what they can do, and eventually they forget about those issues.
Big Blog for Me to Catch Up…
My blog account is finally working, so I have a lot of “blogging” to do! I feel that this project is a worthwhile endeavor. First of all, I admit that I am very behind on political issues. My apartment lacks TV and the internet. Furthermore, it is seldom that I hear college students discussing the news unless it is some huge issue like 9/11. I find it sad that I don’t take the time. I think that many students, like me, are too caught up in the present with homework and everything else to find out about issues that they do not feel will affect them right now. Even when I used to watch the news, the networks seemed to “beat some issues into the ground” until I was sick of hearing about it. Furthermore, I also felt that the media was always very biased in terms of America’s role in the world.
When talking to my friend (a Foreign exchange student) last semester, it was interesting to get an outside perspective of the United States. Some of what I learned made me question United States’ policies more so than I have in the past. Although I feel that it is always good to question things, I saw things from a different perspective. So who am I to believe? I want to believe that the United States most always makes decisions for the good of the people both here and in relations to other countries, however, this doesn’t always seem to be the case. And although I did vote in the last election, I agree with those in this class who feel that they have to pick the “lesser of two evils.” I find this very unfortunate because I want to be extremely proud of our nation. Not that I am not proud to be an American, but resent the fact that many foreigners have bad impressions of Americans. Of course we are not always right, but the fact is that we have done a lot of good throughout history. On Friday when I attended the lecture on US and Islamic relations, the speakers addressed some of these issues. I was glad to hear the Islamic gentleman say that even though some foreign countries might disagree with American policies, they keep in mind that not all Americans share these same values. Likewise, we Americans should be sensitive to other cultures and refrain from making generalizations about people of various backgrounds and ethnic origins. I guess that is a whole topic within itself, though. .
Getting back to the original prompt, I feel that this project will definitely make me more informed, which will help me through those times that I do have debates and discussions with classmates. Also, if we make this information concise and appealing, someone is bound to see it and learn something from it. Therefore, we need to make sure to make it relevant to people our age. Every great change started with a few dedicated people working a few steps at a time towards a common goal. Not that we are going to make a huge wave of change, but every bit helps.
My blog account is finally working, so I have a lot of “blogging” to do! I feel that this project is a worthwhile endeavor. First of all, I admit that I am very behind on political issues. My apartment lacks TV and the internet. Furthermore, it is seldom that I hear college students discussing the news unless it is some huge issue like 9/11. I find it sad that I don’t take the time. I think that many students, like me, are too caught up in the present with homework and everything else to find out about issues that they do not feel will affect them right now. Even when I used to watch the news, the networks seemed to “beat some issues into the ground” until I was sick of hearing about it. Furthermore, I also felt that the media was always very biased in terms of America’s role in the world.
When talking to my friend (a Foreign exchange student) last semester, it was interesting to get an outside perspective of the United States. Some of what I learned made me question United States’ policies more so than I have in the past. Although I feel that it is always good to question things, I saw things from a different perspective. So who am I to believe? I want to believe that the United States most always makes decisions for the good of the people both here and in relations to other countries, however, this doesn’t always seem to be the case. And although I did vote in the last election, I agree with those in this class who feel that they have to pick the “lesser of two evils.” I find this very unfortunate because I want to be extremely proud of our nation. Not that I am not proud to be an American, but resent the fact that many foreigners have bad impressions of Americans. Of course we are not always right, but the fact is that we have done a lot of good throughout history. On Friday when I attended the lecture on US and Islamic relations, the speakers addressed some of these issues. I was glad to hear the Islamic gentleman say that even though some foreign countries might disagree with American policies, they keep in mind that not all Americans share these same values. Likewise, we Americans should be sensitive to other cultures and refrain from making generalizations about people of various backgrounds and ethnic origins. I guess that is a whole topic within itself, though. .
Getting back to the original prompt, I feel that this project will definitely make me more informed, which will help me through those times that I do have debates and discussions with classmates. Also, if we make this information concise and appealing, someone is bound to see it and learn something from it. Therefore, we need to make sure to make it relevant to people our age. Every great change started with a few dedicated people working a few steps at a time towards a common goal. Not that we are going to make a huge wave of change, but every bit helps.
See, maybe I'm not seeing this the right way, but it seems to me that it would be very easy to integrate all of this. If we all did a website, we could easily do a homepage that was a generic "voter information" type site. We could do some work talking basically about the background of why we're doing what we're doing, about the election, and so forth, then say something like "investigate these topics more" and have links to our sites. I'm not really sure how integrated you want this to be, but I think that could tie it together easily. The one prompt was the basis for us all to choose our topics...the idea still stands that we are all addressing voter issues. That seems like the easy part to me, unless it needs to be more cohesive than that.
I'm not really worried about any problems we might run into. Obviously, there will be some, as there are in any group (especially one of 12 or 13 people) but I think they can be easily resolved. I think our biggest thing should be to give ourselves enough time to integrate the different parts; if everyone tries to throw it together at the last minute, and on top of that everyone has to add their two cents, it won't get done. However, if we have a specific plan of how things want to work, I think it could go as smoothly as possible. I don't even think Dr. Fishman needs to micromanage; if she sets an overall deadline, I think it should be up to us as a class when we want certain components due. If we can break the project into smaller parts, I think it will come together more seamlessly in the end.
I'm not really worried about any problems we might run into. Obviously, there will be some, as there are in any group (especially one of 12 or 13 people) but I think they can be easily resolved. I think our biggest thing should be to give ourselves enough time to integrate the different parts; if everyone tries to throw it together at the last minute, and on top of that everyone has to add their two cents, it won't get done. However, if we have a specific plan of how things want to work, I think it could go as smoothly as possible. I don't even think Dr. Fishman needs to micromanage; if she sets an overall deadline, I think it should be up to us as a class when we want certain components due. If we can break the project into smaller parts, I think it will come together more seamlessly in the end.
I think turning each of the individual group projects into a single collaborative work will be perhaps the most difficult part of the project. Given the wide variety of topics we are covering, it will be a challenge to make them fit together in a single coherent work. I think communication and meeting between the designated members of each group will be of utmost importance so that each group will be aware of what the others are doing. These go-betweens will have to coordinate the actual construction of the final product and monitor its progress. It might also be beneficial to have some sort of leadership system for the project that could facilitate the smooth construction of the project and make final decisions and choices should differences in opinion or direction occur.
Concerning the similarity of the groups, while I think that there should be some degree of uniformity for the collaborative work, I also think that the diversity of the groups will be a strength in the final project. Having a variety of issues, information, and media will appeal to a larger audience and reach a larger demographic of people on campus. It would be nice to find a way to interlink the issues while allowing them to retain their diverse scopes. This could be done perhaps by categorizing the issues or by showing the relationship of each to the others through funding or consequences or by explaining how a single person can be affected by each of the issues.
Because this is an honors class, I don't foresee any "pitfalls," merely challenges to the class as whole. These challenges will probably come in the form of time management, organizatin and coordination between groups, and communication in general. These challenges can be lessened, as I said before, by the creation of some kind of leadership structure.
Concerning the similarity of the groups, while I think that there should be some degree of uniformity for the collaborative work, I also think that the diversity of the groups will be a strength in the final project. Having a variety of issues, information, and media will appeal to a larger audience and reach a larger demographic of people on campus. It would be nice to find a way to interlink the issues while allowing them to retain their diverse scopes. This could be done perhaps by categorizing the issues or by showing the relationship of each to the others through funding or consequences or by explaining how a single person can be affected by each of the issues.
Because this is an honors class, I don't foresee any "pitfalls," merely challenges to the class as whole. These challenges will probably come in the form of time management, organizatin and coordination between groups, and communication in general. These challenges can be lessened, as I said before, by the creation of some kind of leadership structure.
Here is the first prompt for this week (in bold, as requested):
Given the wide range of topics (scroll down to remind yourselves what they are if you need to) what are your tentative thoughts about how to make this into a coherent, integrated project. Are there organizational schema that suggest themselves to you? How much "alike" should the different groups have to be? What about linking between and amongst the various topics? (Some of them lend themselves to this much more easily, IMHO, than others.) What pitfalls do you foresee? Are there ways to prevent any of them?
Given the wide range of topics (scroll down to remind yourselves what they are if you need to) what are your tentative thoughts about how to make this into a coherent, integrated project. Are there organizational schema that suggest themselves to you? How much "alike" should the different groups have to be? What about linking between and amongst the various topics? (Some of them lend themselves to this much more easily, IMHO, than others.) What pitfalls do you foresee? Are there ways to prevent any of them?
Monday, September 15, 2003
I had a discussion in my Political Science class today about whether we should make voting mandatory or not. Much of the class felt that we should not make it mandatory because it would mean that more stupid people would be voting and therefore making voting mandatory would be harmful to society. I think this idea is important to our class because we are making it our duty to try to educate the Clemson community about these important issues. It is sad that we as United States citizens take this basic freedom for granted when there are people in other countries who can only dream of being able to directly elect their officials. Apathy is a bad thing, but feeling that your vote doesnt count or that the political system has failed us is even worse. With today's media it is very easy to become jaded and feel that every politician out there is only serving himself. That just isnt true. Politicians do not make a lot of money, their lives are scrutinized, and their jobs are never safe. Politicians make huge sacrifices in order to serve our country. Yes, there are bad politicians, but there are good politicians. Remember, the media's philosophies are "good news is no news" and "if it bleeds, it leads." We have to trust that just because these good politicians arent getting on the news every night does not mean that they do not exist. Also, our nation is a very large, very complex, and very powerful democracy. It takes alot to run this country. Even though it may seem that politicians are getting nothing accomplished and arent serving us and all that crap, they are doing things and they are paying attention to the needs of this country. If we as voters make it apparent that we are for or against something or that we need something, they will listen. We hold their jobs in our hands. We as a people have to get out and vote though, otherwise, what is their motivation to help us. If we dont care, why should they.
So...after that nice little rant, I do have a point. I think that in order to rid this nation of political apathy we must make it a priority to show people that politicians do care and that not all politicians are bad. Otherwise, people are going to go on believing that they dont need to vote because if the politicians dont care then there is not point. I think, more than anything, that this is a reason that people stay uninformed. They only hear the negatives and why bring one other bad thing into an already busy and stressful life. We, as a class, should make it a point to not only educate people about the actual issues, but also educate them on the benefits of voting and living in a democratic society. If we can just make a little bit of a difference in what some people think about politics in general, we can probably change how they feel about being powerless and apathetic.
So...after that nice little rant, I do have a point. I think that in order to rid this nation of political apathy we must make it a priority to show people that politicians do care and that not all politicians are bad. Otherwise, people are going to go on believing that they dont need to vote because if the politicians dont care then there is not point. I think, more than anything, that this is a reason that people stay uninformed. They only hear the negatives and why bring one other bad thing into an already busy and stressful life. We, as a class, should make it a point to not only educate people about the actual issues, but also educate them on the benefits of voting and living in a democratic society. If we can just make a little bit of a difference in what some people think about politics in general, we can probably change how they feel about being powerless and apathetic.
I think the issues being discussed by each of the groups play a tremendous role in each of our futures. Campaign finance reform, the Patriot Act, No Child Left Behind Act, and the AIDS/HIV epidemic will effect each of us and each member of the Clemson campus. Most students don;t pay any attention to political issues at this point in their lives because they feel like that can't make a difference but this country was created on the foundation that one voice can and will make a difference. We are all given a great right: the right to choose our leaders. We are not handed a king or ruler, but instead pick those who will represent our interests. I think it is sad that many students don't appreciate this inherent right. This project may only affect a few people outside of the class but that should not be considered a failure. If this project sparks the interests of a few students and shapes their voting decisions for the upcoming election we have accomplished a mafnificent goal. Remember, the purpose of technical writing is for others to read and be affected by your work. If one person reads your writing and considers it in any way, either for or against your views, you have succeeded.
Considering the project: I am fully confient in the abilities of my group. I think we will tackle this assignment and produce a fine piece of work. My only concern is the time requirements we will face. Because we are all honors student swe spend a lot of time on all classes, and most of us have outside activities and resposibilites. To have four people meet at least once per week, will be challenging. We'll have to see how this works out.
Considering the project: I am fully confient in the abilities of my group. I think we will tackle this assignment and produce a fine piece of work. My only concern is the time requirements we will face. Because we are all honors student swe spend a lot of time on all classes, and most of us have outside activities and resposibilites. To have four people meet at least once per week, will be challenging. We'll have to see how this works out.
Why are people apathetic? I haven't the first, foggiest clue. I have been trying to motivate people into doing a variaty of things over the past two semesters to no postive end.
This also kind of runs counter to the notion that people are not interested in things outside of their own interests. I have been trying to get people to do things they are genuinely interested in, still no go.
How about grades? Nope, I have been running a study hall this whole time and even when people are faced with failing they won't come out and get help, and before you think it is just me, I am not the only one running the study group so they have had other options besides me to deal with, both make and female.
What motivates people? I don't know, but if you ever figure it out, please let me know.
This also kind of runs counter to the notion that people are not interested in things outside of their own interests. I have been trying to get people to do things they are genuinely interested in, still no go.
How about grades? Nope, I have been running a study hall this whole time and even when people are faced with failing they won't come out and get help, and before you think it is just me, I am not the only one running the study group so they have had other options besides me to deal with, both make and female.
What motivates people? I don't know, but if you ever figure it out, please let me know.
Ok, to catch up on my posts because I am technologically challenged. First of all, my thoughts on this project. I believe that of course what we are doing is very important; just because I am completely disinterested in it does not mean I don't think it has merit. Above all, I think that voters, especially students (whose current political views will shape the future) should be informed about the issues before they make any decisions on where they stand. And by informed I do not mean knowing what their parents think, or which way their friends' loyalties lie. It is simply too difficult for students to take the time to truly form their own opinion because yes, this is a process that takes time, effort, and thought. So if students are unwilling to inform themselves, then I think it is a good idea to shove it in their face in hopes they may pay attention. And what better source than from a class, because this way it will TRULY be unbiased and only for the sake of information. Oh, and as for the "how" of the project, I think we are getting off really easy with this being 50% of our grade...but don't get any ideas, Dr. Fishman.
Secondly, though my label as the "apathy corner" is quite applicable to many aspects of life, my political views border more on a nihilistic bend (in a completely non-violent way, mind you). Of course, I understand the needs of a political body, and I am not preaching anarchy or socialism or any of those sort of things. I just suppose that I have become so pessimistic about our current political situation, especially in regards to our politicians, that I don't see how we can make any progressive change without starting from scratch. NOW it sounds like I'm encouraging Revolution, which again I can assure you I am not. I just feel, not that our votes don't count, but rather that democracy has failed us, or perhaps we have failed democracy. It is important for everyone to have a say, but when no one is working towards a common goal, how can any good be accomplished? It's as if the people United States are survivors stranded on a desert island, with a certain amount of food; each takes a share for himself, but it's not enough to sustain anyone. This applies not only to our votes, but also to our budget issues, which I will not address here. I also think this project is important because I honestly hope others are not so pessimistic as myself. Apathy is NOT a privilege or right; in fact, it is so defeatest in a situation that is so central to everyone's life in the US that it is a worse evil than our current situation. If you don't care, move to Canada...if they'll let you in.
Secondly, though my label as the "apathy corner" is quite applicable to many aspects of life, my political views border more on a nihilistic bend (in a completely non-violent way, mind you). Of course, I understand the needs of a political body, and I am not preaching anarchy or socialism or any of those sort of things. I just suppose that I have become so pessimistic about our current political situation, especially in regards to our politicians, that I don't see how we can make any progressive change without starting from scratch. NOW it sounds like I'm encouraging Revolution, which again I can assure you I am not. I just feel, not that our votes don't count, but rather that democracy has failed us, or perhaps we have failed democracy. It is important for everyone to have a say, but when no one is working towards a common goal, how can any good be accomplished? It's as if the people United States are survivors stranded on a desert island, with a certain amount of food; each takes a share for himself, but it's not enough to sustain anyone. This applies not only to our votes, but also to our budget issues, which I will not address here. I also think this project is important because I honestly hope others are not so pessimistic as myself. Apathy is NOT a privilege or right; in fact, it is so defeatest in a situation that is so central to everyone's life in the US that it is a worse evil than our current situation. If you don't care, move to Canada...if they'll let you in.
Sunday, September 14, 2003
I agree with all the reasons that everybody has come up with. I also think that tripp's gripe about how we pay so much for such a little say in things is justified. I just don't see how it could be any other way. Since there are so many people in this country it would be hard to convince people that their votes count because with such a large number of people, one person doesn't really matter. I think that is why people join groups and parties so that they will have a sufficient number of people to make a difference. Unfortunately, this means that real free thinkers tend to be underrepresented. And since this country's government is based on a democracy (sort of), there's no way to change the system. It's sort of a no-win situation. As long as nobody else votes, your vote counts more than if everybody votes. I strongly agree with Jessica about the lesser of two evils; maybe voter apathy would diminish if there were actually some good candidates.
I thinks students are apathetic because of the many other they have to worry about. Most students do not bother to vote in the elections occurring on campus let alone the national elections. I think students feel they have much more things to worry about rather than elections, even though, they also affect us. Things such as test, homework, and gpa are more than enough to keep any student busy. Another reason may be that students do not really feel strongly about any of the topics addressed in the election. Sort of, it doesn't matter whether this or that occurs it's not going to hurt me. In addition, with the lack of time that students are always facing, it is difficult to stay informed on what the issues are with the election. Therefore, if a student does have some feeling about an issue but is not informed, he or she might not vote for fear of not knowing which person(s) is for or against this issue. Basically what it boils down to, is that students feel they do not have the necessary time and/or interest to spend following the elections properly.
I've always thought that if you give up roughly 50% of your income for 1/278 millionth of a say in things, you're dealing with a phenomenally inefficient system. I think that when you get to a body of people this size, a dissonance between the governing body and its people occurs to such an extent that they truly become two separate entities. After accepting that, i just follow Wilde's recommendation to live as independently as possible under the given conditions. In short, i don't vote because it's an endorsement for a product already running too much of my life.
Personal rants aside, we've established that for one reason or another, not many people around here are too wild about voting and politics and all that jive. I guess if we're to address this or take it into account for our projects we can attempt to fix it, or design the project such that it circumvents the problem altogether. (For those of you with an idea of how hard it is to make the prevorbial horse drink, the second should seem appealing) I don't think it was intentional, but our group found that our topic lends itself well to fliers and radio announcements. Adopting this mass form of information distribution should negate the low voting levels. Suppose you have a voting population that's, let's say, 30% of the actual population, but you reach 1,000 people through radio and curious bypassers over the course of a day or two. This will have more of an effect on the votes cast than an informed, in-dept discussion or debate in front of a crowded lecture hall of 200 people, even if every last person in the lecture hall is jolted into voting for your candidate. I'm not happy that things work out this way in our system, but it seems that if you want to really make a difference it's better to give out tiny bits of information in short intervals than everything you know at one sitting.
That's right. Debates are dead. In these days of lightning-quick attention spans, candidates come to you in commercials.
In other news, i found one of the Clemson radio DJ's who play PSA's. If anyone has any trouble airing theirs, lemme know yo.
~tripp
Personal rants aside, we've established that for one reason or another, not many people around here are too wild about voting and politics and all that jive. I guess if we're to address this or take it into account for our projects we can attempt to fix it, or design the project such that it circumvents the problem altogether. (For those of you with an idea of how hard it is to make the prevorbial horse drink, the second should seem appealing) I don't think it was intentional, but our group found that our topic lends itself well to fliers and radio announcements. Adopting this mass form of information distribution should negate the low voting levels. Suppose you have a voting population that's, let's say, 30% of the actual population, but you reach 1,000 people through radio and curious bypassers over the course of a day or two. This will have more of an effect on the votes cast than an informed, in-dept discussion or debate in front of a crowded lecture hall of 200 people, even if every last person in the lecture hall is jolted into voting for your candidate. I'm not happy that things work out this way in our system, but it seems that if you want to really make a difference it's better to give out tiny bits of information in short intervals than everything you know at one sitting.
That's right. Debates are dead. In these days of lightning-quick attention spans, candidates come to you in commercials.
In other news, i found one of the Clemson radio DJ's who play PSA's. If anyone has any trouble airing theirs, lemme know yo.
~tripp
