1. Cindi Shuler, component a, "My California": Dumas, Major, Chabon and Goldmark.
2. Cindi expanded a lot on "Berkeley," by Chabon. She went into detail about how unique Berkeley is and that was how I felt about all the places I researched for projects 2-3. Each city has its own unique culture, with many subcultures created within.
3. Something Cindi said that about Berkeley that caught my attention was how different it was from neighborhood cities. It made me think about how crossing a simple city line can completely change everything.
4. Cindi's work helped me to look "outside the box." Instead of just taking into consideration Berkeley's characteristics, I was also able to put it into perspective by thinking about what the life surrounding Berkeley entails.
5. I feel like this project helped to understand projects 2-3 more than projects 2-3 helped me understand this project. Looking at classmates' responses to the readings has helped me have an even more open mind.
Friday, July 18, 2008
5b: Reflections
1. Lizabeth Magana, component a, "My California": Tobar, Steinbeck and Humes.
2. Magana's description of Tobar's essay regarding his experiences with highways and caltrans related to the assignments in projects 2-3 because they are what connects all the cities we have been learning about this semester.
3. Something I did not realize before reading Lizabeth's blog was that I did not even take into consideration the cultural experiences that take place on highways that connect us to all these cultural cities. Some of my favorite memories of trips I have been on took place on the highway on the way there. I think it is easy for people to get caught up on their destination and forget that the journey there is all part of the experience.
4. In regard to Freire's ideas on dialogue, I see his point of view now on the importance of learning from each other. While I had my thoughts on the cities I had specifically read about, I also have a new view on the parts of the city that have less attention paid to them like highways. Overall, it expanded the way I think about a place as a whole.
5. Projects 2-3 helped me with the readings of the text because it helped me learn how to appreciate a city's culture for both shared personal experiences and factual information I found in my research.
2. Magana's description of Tobar's essay regarding his experiences with highways and caltrans related to the assignments in projects 2-3 because they are what connects all the cities we have been learning about this semester.
3. Something I did not realize before reading Lizabeth's blog was that I did not even take into consideration the cultural experiences that take place on highways that connect us to all these cultural cities. Some of my favorite memories of trips I have been on took place on the highway on the way there. I think it is easy for people to get caught up on their destination and forget that the journey there is all part of the experience.
4. In regard to Freire's ideas on dialogue, I see his point of view now on the importance of learning from each other. While I had my thoughts on the cities I had specifically read about, I also have a new view on the parts of the city that have less attention paid to them like highways. Overall, it expanded the way I think about a place as a whole.
5. Projects 2-3 helped me with the readings of the text because it helped me learn how to appreciate a city's culture for both shared personal experiences and factual information I found in my research.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
"909"
by Percival Everett
"909" is a story about Riverside County, or the Desert Hills known as "Badlands." It begins with a description of how it used to be: filled with orange groves, wheat fields, horse ranches and cattle ranches, but it is filled with tracts of affordable housing and jobs. Sitting in the space between Los Angeles and Palm Springs, "909" was described by Everett as the place in-between where people live and where they want to be.
My favorite sentence in "909" was as follows:
"Trying to fit in with the big boys by accommodating their oversized
posteriors" (122).
The reading made me think of how there are places like the Badlands everywhere. In particular, it made me think of Petaluma. I feel like Petaluma is the in-between place for San Francisco and Santa Rosa. To tie in the quote I chose, I also feel like sometimes Petaluma is trying to hard to accomodate to a higher class lifestyle. An example would be how a lot of expensive boutiques are popping up all over town.
Before reading "909" I did not even know of the Badlands. I also did not know that it used to be known for meth labs and prisons. I vacation with my family in Palm Springs every summer and I never would have guessed that a place so close to Palm Springs would be known for drugs and prisons.
"The Line"
by Ruben Martinez
"The Line" is a description of the border at Tijuana and the events that take place. At night a whole migrant culture surfaces. As Martinez stated, a mini-economy of vendors exploits prices on last-minute items needed. Booze, magazines, food, music and even prostitutes were all part of the nighttime celebrations. It was an adventure to say the least. Sexual encounters were a huge part of these nights, though Martinez expands toward the end on how the Tijuana border has changed over the years.
Here are my favorite sentences:
"At night, it is lit a harsh amber. The glow that falls from the gigantic light towers straddles the line for several hundred yards in each direction, meaning that the gringo light actually falls on Mexican territory-illegal light as it were, but the Mexican government has never complained about it, or, the constant noise pollution from the helicopters on patrol" (130).
The reading made me think about how much the American economy's ups and downs effects cultures all over the world. The culture of immigrants at the Tijuana border was drastically changed by the downfall of the American economy.
Something I did not know before reading "The Line" was what I stated before. I knew things had changed at the border, but not to the extent that Martinez described.
"Flirting With Urbanismo"
by Patt Morrison
Patt Morrison begins by explaining that most people have in fact seen downtown L.A even if they haven't been there. He claims that the majority of movies set in Chicago or New York have clearly been filmed in L.A. He goes on to describe a few buildings and objects of interest (i.e towers etc) that are in either New York and Chicago but have appeared for the sake the filming in L.A. Later, he changes tone and goes into detail about how versatile and different the streets of L.A really are: Skid Row is squalor, Spring St. is Spanish, and across Broadway you find a "Latin American mercantile fest" (p.134). In the middle of his essay, Morrison compares downtown to ranchos, which he claims are like suburbs. He also claims that downtowns are made by "demography, not geography", meaning, L.A is prestigious due to the fact that its immigrants were all middle class women and men with money and education, whereas everywhere else has foreign immigrants. The activities associated with this kind of downtown include: working, shopping, walking dogs while sipping coffee, and dining out. Towards the end, he explains how real estate has created the unwritten law that land is precious only when you can sell it; hence resulting in a serious lack of city parks. If people want parks, they create their own private park at home. He finishes his essay by describing a few places that do in fact bring him joy, such as Union Station, the garment district, and the Triforium.
My favorite part of the entire essay is the line where he says
"...downtown is part circus, part museum-everywhere, something worth
looking at" (p. 139).
This is my favorite because it's totally true. Each time I have visited L.A I have found some new building or museum or part of town to explore.
This essay makes me think of all the different places I have seen in L.A. It also makes me think that if you really look for them, you can find interesting and intellectual places outside of the "typical Hollywood lifestyle".
Something I learned that I didn't know before reading this is that even though L.A is considerately plastic, underneath it all downtown really does have a rich, interesting, and historical culture in the form of museums, old buildings, and culturally-specific parts of town.
"Waters of Tranquility"
by Carolyn See
The waters Carolyn See thought of as tranquil were the waters of Lake Shrine. Tucked away half a mile behing Sunset Boulevard and the beach, Lake Shrine was a place of many different experiences. Several religions, romantic moments, families, tourists and emotions took place at Lake Shrine. For Carolyn, the most significant part of Lake Shrine was the grieving she was able to accomplish over the loss of her love. She would do many laps, each ridding her of different feelings.
My favorite paragraph:
"Every day, I'd swing on over to the Lake Shrine, right on the brink of murdering one well-meaning relative or another, and make the first circle, swearing, muttering oaths and imprecations, sneering at whoever got in my way. By the second time around, I'd remembered why I was there, how I was losing the man I loved most in the world. I'd lean against trees and weep, sit on those benches and sob. The third time around, I'd hear myself asking for courage, steadfastness, compassion! The fourth time around, I could walk, and watch" (145).
The reading made me think of my own very fresh experience with losing someone I love. I truly enjoyed reading this because it was a reminder to me that all the emotions involved with death are normal. It made me want to find a place like Lake Shrine to release the wide array of emotions I have bottled up.
One thing I learned was that grieving, though the loss may be different, is very much the same. It was really comforting to be able to relate to this author.
by Percival Everett
"909" is a story about Riverside County, or the Desert Hills known as "Badlands." It begins with a description of how it used to be: filled with orange groves, wheat fields, horse ranches and cattle ranches, but it is filled with tracts of affordable housing and jobs. Sitting in the space between Los Angeles and Palm Springs, "909" was described by Everett as the place in-between where people live and where they want to be.
My favorite sentence in "909" was as follows:
"Trying to fit in with the big boys by accommodating their oversized
posteriors" (122).
The reading made me think of how there are places like the Badlands everywhere. In particular, it made me think of Petaluma. I feel like Petaluma is the in-between place for San Francisco and Santa Rosa. To tie in the quote I chose, I also feel like sometimes Petaluma is trying to hard to accomodate to a higher class lifestyle. An example would be how a lot of expensive boutiques are popping up all over town.
Before reading "909" I did not even know of the Badlands. I also did not know that it used to be known for meth labs and prisons. I vacation with my family in Palm Springs every summer and I never would have guessed that a place so close to Palm Springs would be known for drugs and prisons.
"The Line"
by Ruben Martinez
"The Line" is a description of the border at Tijuana and the events that take place. At night a whole migrant culture surfaces. As Martinez stated, a mini-economy of vendors exploits prices on last-minute items needed. Booze, magazines, food, music and even prostitutes were all part of the nighttime celebrations. It was an adventure to say the least. Sexual encounters were a huge part of these nights, though Martinez expands toward the end on how the Tijuana border has changed over the years.
Here are my favorite sentences:
"At night, it is lit a harsh amber. The glow that falls from the gigantic light towers straddles the line for several hundred yards in each direction, meaning that the gringo light actually falls on Mexican territory-illegal light as it were, but the Mexican government has never complained about it, or, the constant noise pollution from the helicopters on patrol" (130).
The reading made me think about how much the American economy's ups and downs effects cultures all over the world. The culture of immigrants at the Tijuana border was drastically changed by the downfall of the American economy.
Something I did not know before reading "The Line" was what I stated before. I knew things had changed at the border, but not to the extent that Martinez described.
"Flirting With Urbanismo"
by Patt Morrison
Patt Morrison begins by explaining that most people have in fact seen downtown L.A even if they haven't been there. He claims that the majority of movies set in Chicago or New York have clearly been filmed in L.A. He goes on to describe a few buildings and objects of interest (i.e towers etc) that are in either New York and Chicago but have appeared for the sake the filming in L.A. Later, he changes tone and goes into detail about how versatile and different the streets of L.A really are: Skid Row is squalor, Spring St. is Spanish, and across Broadway you find a "Latin American mercantile fest" (p.134). In the middle of his essay, Morrison compares downtown to ranchos, which he claims are like suburbs. He also claims that downtowns are made by "demography, not geography", meaning, L.A is prestigious due to the fact that its immigrants were all middle class women and men with money and education, whereas everywhere else has foreign immigrants. The activities associated with this kind of downtown include: working, shopping, walking dogs while sipping coffee, and dining out. Towards the end, he explains how real estate has created the unwritten law that land is precious only when you can sell it; hence resulting in a serious lack of city parks. If people want parks, they create their own private park at home. He finishes his essay by describing a few places that do in fact bring him joy, such as Union Station, the garment district, and the Triforium.
My favorite part of the entire essay is the line where he says
"...downtown is part circus, part museum-everywhere, something worth
looking at" (p. 139).
This is my favorite because it's totally true. Each time I have visited L.A I have found some new building or museum or part of town to explore.
This essay makes me think of all the different places I have seen in L.A. It also makes me think that if you really look for them, you can find interesting and intellectual places outside of the "typical Hollywood lifestyle".
Something I learned that I didn't know before reading this is that even though L.A is considerately plastic, underneath it all downtown really does have a rich, interesting, and historical culture in the form of museums, old buildings, and culturally-specific parts of town.
"Waters of Tranquility"
by Carolyn See
The waters Carolyn See thought of as tranquil were the waters of Lake Shrine. Tucked away half a mile behing Sunset Boulevard and the beach, Lake Shrine was a place of many different experiences. Several religions, romantic moments, families, tourists and emotions took place at Lake Shrine. For Carolyn, the most significant part of Lake Shrine was the grieving she was able to accomplish over the loss of her love. She would do many laps, each ridding her of different feelings.
My favorite paragraph:
"Every day, I'd swing on over to the Lake Shrine, right on the brink of murdering one well-meaning relative or another, and make the first circle, swearing, muttering oaths and imprecations, sneering at whoever got in my way. By the second time around, I'd remembered why I was there, how I was losing the man I loved most in the world. I'd lean against trees and weep, sit on those benches and sob. The third time around, I'd hear myself asking for courage, steadfastness, compassion! The fourth time around, I could walk, and watch" (145).
The reading made me think of my own very fresh experience with losing someone I love. I truly enjoyed reading this because it was a reminder to me that all the emotions involved with death are normal. It made me want to find a place like Lake Shrine to release the wide array of emotions I have bottled up.
One thing I learned was that grieving, though the loss may be different, is very much the same. It was really comforting to be able to relate to this author.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
4c: Reflections
I learned a lot about Mission Beach from Rosio Serrano. I did not know how popular it was in the 1920s. Sometimes I forget about the fact that the beach was there first, so it was nice to hear some history about how the houses ended up being built.
4b: Reflections
I learned from Meredith Porter that Sacramento is connected to the San Francisco Bay by several rivers, while Fresno is strictly landlocked. I do realize this is something I should have already known, but I really did not know that.
http://mer-human7.blogspot.com/2008/07/3b-inland-areas.html
http://mer-human7.blogspot.com/2008/07/3b-inland-areas.html
4a: Group #1
Write the story title and author name.
The Big Valley
by Mark Arax
Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph.
The Big Valley is Mark Arax's tale of his experience with culture in the Fresno and surrounding areas, influenced by what he had learned from his father and grandfather. The culture his ancestors had experienced was far different from the experiences he had and the experiences his kids were having. A point he made very clear was how many people were willing to sell the farmland since the things that made money long ago are not necessarily what sells now. After taking a journey to a farm-equipment show, Arax describes in further detail how if given the chance, a lot of people are willing to sell their heritage. Above all, Arax shares with the reader how he is still an "honest farmer," as opposed to a farmer who farms for money: "a grower."
Which was your favorite sentence or paragraph?
"As another orchard gets plowed under out there, I plant another pomegranate or apricot
tree back here. I know it's futile, but my garden is now ample and year-round, and the dirt
under my nails is honest farm dirt" (26).
This was my favorite because of the symbolic point he made. No matter how much money is involved, the genuine joy of something will still remain. Although he did not agree with the building of several corporate buildings, which essentially depleted the history he had known, he was still able to find it in him to do what he loved: farm.
What did the reading make you think of?
The reading made me think of this one particular trip I took to San Diego. I remember seeing a Fresno sign and thinking about a friend of mine who went to college there. I had no clue what Fresno was like, but after reading about Arax's view on Fresno I realized that a lot of times the impression I get of places may not actually have much to do with its roots. I do not recall ever hearing anyone say anything close to what Arax described. This story was another reminder of how easy it is to get caught up in how we live now, instead of appreciating history as much as we should.
What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know?
I had no clue that Fresno was a fig-capital. In the very first paragraph of Arax's story, he makes it very clear exactly how much figs were a part of his growing up; "With one orchard stitched to the next, it was easy to lose your sense of geography and time" (17). I also did not know that Fresno was such a huge farming area in general.
Write the story title and author name.
Transients in Paradise
by Aimee Liu
Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph.
Liu put into words her experience and struggles with the city she lives in: Hollywood. With several descriptions of what she sees in people and places within Hollywood, Liu creates a more genuine picture than most of us are used to hearing about Hollywood.
What was your favorite sentence or paragraph?
"I see buses carrying housekeepers from Crenshaw nudge the pick-ups of gardeners from Englewood, Range Rovers
driven by trophy wives cut off by Hondas bearing handicap placards" (31).
This quote shows the diverse classes even within places like Hollywood. It takes the presence and labor of less fortunate people to keep the reputation of Hollywood going. I like that Liu used such great detail to express this point.
What did the reading make you think of?
The reading made me think about how there are homeless people and less fortunate people everywhere, but it is easy to overlook. Especially is places like Hollywood, it is easy to make assumptions about what kinds of people are there. The fact that Hollywood is usually noticed for its wealth, but not the actual people who maintain the beauty of the area, or the people who do the "dirty work."
What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know?
I learned that Hollywood is not exactly like I hear it is. When I visited there I do not remember noticing the things Liu noticed, but now it makes me want to go back and experience it in a different way.
Write the story title and author name.
Showing Off the Owens
by T. Jefferson Parker
Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph.
Parker takes novelist Brian Wiprud to experience the Lower Owens River, one of his favorite places to go fishing. The way Parker had remembered it was not exactly how it was anymore. He appreciated the history for what it was and learned to appreciate the new qualities it had.
What was your favorite sentence or paragraph?
"Gradually the south end of the Owens River trickles into view. It isn't much to see at first and I bemoan again the Los
Angeles Department of Water and Power's theft of the Owens River water many decades ago for their thirsty city far to the
south. One of the families living there in Los Angeles and using that water was mine. The Owens was once a mighty river
that held mighty fish. Now it is not. However, DWP does keep parts of the reduced Owens open for anglers, so I choose
to be an optimist and tell myself that the river is half full" (38-39).
What did the reading make you think of?
The reading made me think about how sometimes in life things change, but we can either choose to dwell on how negatively they have changed, or continue to look at the good points that still exist. I loved that Parker still wanted to show off the Lower Owens River, regardless of how much the water had gone down.
What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know?
I did not realize how much power the Department of Water and Power had on rivers.
The Big Valley
by Mark Arax
Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph.
The Big Valley is Mark Arax's tale of his experience with culture in the Fresno and surrounding areas, influenced by what he had learned from his father and grandfather. The culture his ancestors had experienced was far different from the experiences he had and the experiences his kids were having. A point he made very clear was how many people were willing to sell the farmland since the things that made money long ago are not necessarily what sells now. After taking a journey to a farm-equipment show, Arax describes in further detail how if given the chance, a lot of people are willing to sell their heritage. Above all, Arax shares with the reader how he is still an "honest farmer," as opposed to a farmer who farms for money: "a grower."
Which was your favorite sentence or paragraph?
"As another orchard gets plowed under out there, I plant another pomegranate or apricot
tree back here. I know it's futile, but my garden is now ample and year-round, and the dirt
under my nails is honest farm dirt" (26).
This was my favorite because of the symbolic point he made. No matter how much money is involved, the genuine joy of something will still remain. Although he did not agree with the building of several corporate buildings, which essentially depleted the history he had known, he was still able to find it in him to do what he loved: farm.
What did the reading make you think of?
The reading made me think of this one particular trip I took to San Diego. I remember seeing a Fresno sign and thinking about a friend of mine who went to college there. I had no clue what Fresno was like, but after reading about Arax's view on Fresno I realized that a lot of times the impression I get of places may not actually have much to do with its roots. I do not recall ever hearing anyone say anything close to what Arax described. This story was another reminder of how easy it is to get caught up in how we live now, instead of appreciating history as much as we should.
What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know?
I had no clue that Fresno was a fig-capital. In the very first paragraph of Arax's story, he makes it very clear exactly how much figs were a part of his growing up; "With one orchard stitched to the next, it was easy to lose your sense of geography and time" (17). I also did not know that Fresno was such a huge farming area in general.
Write the story title and author name.
Transients in Paradise
by Aimee Liu
Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph.
Liu put into words her experience and struggles with the city she lives in: Hollywood. With several descriptions of what she sees in people and places within Hollywood, Liu creates a more genuine picture than most of us are used to hearing about Hollywood.
What was your favorite sentence or paragraph?
"I see buses carrying housekeepers from Crenshaw nudge the pick-ups of gardeners from Englewood, Range Rovers
driven by trophy wives cut off by Hondas bearing handicap placards" (31).
This quote shows the diverse classes even within places like Hollywood. It takes the presence and labor of less fortunate people to keep the reputation of Hollywood going. I like that Liu used such great detail to express this point.
What did the reading make you think of?
The reading made me think about how there are homeless people and less fortunate people everywhere, but it is easy to overlook. Especially is places like Hollywood, it is easy to make assumptions about what kinds of people are there. The fact that Hollywood is usually noticed for its wealth, but not the actual people who maintain the beauty of the area, or the people who do the "dirty work."
What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know?
I learned that Hollywood is not exactly like I hear it is. When I visited there I do not remember noticing the things Liu noticed, but now it makes me want to go back and experience it in a different way.
Write the story title and author name.
Showing Off the Owens
by T. Jefferson Parker
Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph.
Parker takes novelist Brian Wiprud to experience the Lower Owens River, one of his favorite places to go fishing. The way Parker had remembered it was not exactly how it was anymore. He appreciated the history for what it was and learned to appreciate the new qualities it had.
What was your favorite sentence or paragraph?
"Gradually the south end of the Owens River trickles into view. It isn't much to see at first and I bemoan again the Los
Angeles Department of Water and Power's theft of the Owens River water many decades ago for their thirsty city far to the
south. One of the families living there in Los Angeles and using that water was mine. The Owens was once a mighty river
that held mighty fish. Now it is not. However, DWP does keep parts of the reduced Owens open for anglers, so I choose
to be an optimist and tell myself that the river is half full" (38-39).
What did the reading make you think of?
The reading made me think about how sometimes in life things change, but we can either choose to dwell on how negatively they have changed, or continue to look at the good points that still exist. I loved that Parker still wanted to show off the Lower Owens River, regardless of how much the water had gone down.
What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know?
I did not realize how much power the Department of Water and Power had on rivers.
Friday, July 11, 2008
4a-Group #1
Write the story title and author name.
The Big Valley
by Mark Arax
Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph.
The Big Valley is Mark Arax's tale of his experience with culture in the Fresno and surrounding areas, influenced by what he had learned from his father and grandfather. The culture his ancestors had experienced was far different from the experiences he had and the experiences his kids were having. A point he made very clear was how many people were willing to sell the farmland since the things that made money long ago are not necessarily what sells now. After taking a journey to a farm-equipment show, Arax describes in further detail how if given the chance, a lot of people are willing to sell their heritage. Above all, Arax shares with the reader how he is still an "honest farmer," as opposed to a farmer who farms for money: "a grower."
Which was your favorite sentence or paragraph?
"As another orchard gets plowed under out there, I plant another pomegranate or apricot
tree back here. I know it's futile, but my garden is now ample and year-round, and the dirt
under my nails is honest farm dirt" (26).
This was my favorite because of the symbolic point he made. No matter how much money is involved, the genuine joy of something will still remain. Although he did not agree with the building of several corporate buildings, which essentially depleted the history he had known, he was still able to find it in him to do what he loved: farm.
What did the reading make you think of?
The reading made me think of this one particular trip I took to San Diego. I remember seeing a Fresno sign and thinking about a friend of mine who went to college there. I had no clue what Fresno was like, but after reading about Arax's view on Fresno I realized that a lot of times the impression I get of places may not actually have much to do with its roots. I do not recall ever hearing anyone say anything close to what Arax described. This story was another reminder of how easy it is to get caught up in how we live now, instead of appreciating history as much as we should.
What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know?
I had no clue that Fresno was a fig-capital. In the very first paragraph of Arax's story, he makes it very clear exactly how much figs were a part of his growing up; "With one orchard stitched to the next, it was easy to lose your sense of geography and time" (17). I also did not know that Fresno was such a huge farming area in general.
The Big Valley
by Mark Arax
Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph.
The Big Valley is Mark Arax's tale of his experience with culture in the Fresno and surrounding areas, influenced by what he had learned from his father and grandfather. The culture his ancestors had experienced was far different from the experiences he had and the experiences his kids were having. A point he made very clear was how many people were willing to sell the farmland since the things that made money long ago are not necessarily what sells now. After taking a journey to a farm-equipment show, Arax describes in further detail how if given the chance, a lot of people are willing to sell their heritage. Above all, Arax shares with the reader how he is still an "honest farmer," as opposed to a farmer who farms for money: "a grower."
Which was your favorite sentence or paragraph?
"As another orchard gets plowed under out there, I plant another pomegranate or apricot
tree back here. I know it's futile, but my garden is now ample and year-round, and the dirt
under my nails is honest farm dirt" (26).
This was my favorite because of the symbolic point he made. No matter how much money is involved, the genuine joy of something will still remain. Although he did not agree with the building of several corporate buildings, which essentially depleted the history he had known, he was still able to find it in him to do what he loved: farm.
What did the reading make you think of?
The reading made me think of this one particular trip I took to San Diego. I remember seeing a Fresno sign and thinking about a friend of mine who went to college there. I had no clue what Fresno was like, but after reading about Arax's view on Fresno I realized that a lot of times the impression I get of places may not actually have much to do with its roots. I do not recall ever hearing anyone say anything close to what Arax described. This story was another reminder of how easy it is to get caught up in how we live now, instead of appreciating history as much as we should.
What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know?
I had no clue that Fresno was a fig-capital. In the very first paragraph of Arax's story, he makes it very clear exactly how much figs were a part of his growing up; "With one orchard stitched to the next, it was easy to lose your sense of geography and time" (17). I also did not know that Fresno was such a huge farming area in general.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
3b: Beaches
Contains a title using the format listed above.
3b: Beaches
Contains a web link to your locations. (eg you can use the tools in your blog where you paste your work; there is a little icon that looks like a link).
http://www.beachcalifornia.com/pacbch.html
http://www.beachcalifornia.com/beach/video-pismo-beach.html
Contains an explanation regarding how this component (any aspect of it; eg content of videos, content of websites) connects to your study of humanities.
Beaches in general have a culture of their own. I think it is safe to say that each and every one of us feels different at a beach than we do in city life. To me, it all has to do with our own connection to nature, which is a huge part of any culture. Both Pacific Beach and Pismo Beach have tourist qualities in addition to the local scene. With good food, good music and good shopping, these two beaches are ideal for many travelers. Humanities can be looked at in several ways. Most of us think about our own experiences in different places, but although the culture may be the same each time, every person experiences beaches differently.
What are some assumptions/stereotypes you think people have of each location.
Some assumptions people have of each location is that they are touristy. While both the beaches are big attractions, there is also a community residing in each place.
List 3 things that make each location similar.
Each location has a lot of activities to partake in. I have been to both and noticed that I felt very welcome at each place. Another quality they share is the additional activities offered near by, like shopping, dining, etc.
List 3 things that make each location so different.
Pacific Beach differs from Pismo Beach in regard to college students. Every single time I have been to Pacific Beach there are swarms of college students. Also, Pacific Beach seems to be more of a party scene than Pismo Beach. Pismo Beach has a more old-fashioned downtown next to it than does Pacific Beach. It is more historically preserved.
Questioning: What else would you like to know about these places? When completing the question section, lead your audience into the question by stating a fact you do know, yet you still have the related question. This way, both your audience and you will have an educational experience.
I would like to know which types of activities the two beaches do not share. I know that they offer a lot of similar things (surfing, etc.), but I am just wondering if the location has anything to do with the differences they have in what they offer.
5. Using your classmates work from last week, tell us one thing you learned from 1 student. Is this one thing some common experience you share or some experience that is completely different than what you experienced? Is this one thing related to our class theoretical foundation and if so, how? Is that one thing related to historical or cultural context of this country or a different one? Link that persons blog to this entry (eg cut paste that blog entry here).
Dae-Hwan Kim taught me so much about China Town in San Francisco. I have never been there, but would love to go. Chinese culture is definitly a culture that intrigues me, but I have to be honest in saying that I have always been intimidated by it. I would love to learn more.
http://loftwick.blogspot.com/2008/06/2a-san-francisco-china-town.html
3b: Beaches
Contains a web link to your locations. (eg you can use the tools in your blog where you paste your work; there is a little icon that looks like a link).
http://www.beachcalifornia.com/pacbch.html
http://www.beachcalifornia.com/beach/video-pismo-beach.html
Contains an explanation regarding how this component (any aspect of it; eg content of videos, content of websites) connects to your study of humanities.
Beaches in general have a culture of their own. I think it is safe to say that each and every one of us feels different at a beach than we do in city life. To me, it all has to do with our own connection to nature, which is a huge part of any culture. Both Pacific Beach and Pismo Beach have tourist qualities in addition to the local scene. With good food, good music and good shopping, these two beaches are ideal for many travelers. Humanities can be looked at in several ways. Most of us think about our own experiences in different places, but although the culture may be the same each time, every person experiences beaches differently.
What are some assumptions/stereotypes you think people have of each location.
Some assumptions people have of each location is that they are touristy. While both the beaches are big attractions, there is also a community residing in each place.
List 3 things that make each location similar.
Each location has a lot of activities to partake in. I have been to both and noticed that I felt very welcome at each place. Another quality they share is the additional activities offered near by, like shopping, dining, etc.
List 3 things that make each location so different.
Pacific Beach differs from Pismo Beach in regard to college students. Every single time I have been to Pacific Beach there are swarms of college students. Also, Pacific Beach seems to be more of a party scene than Pismo Beach. Pismo Beach has a more old-fashioned downtown next to it than does Pacific Beach. It is more historically preserved.
Questioning: What else would you like to know about these places? When completing the question section, lead your audience into the question by stating a fact you do know, yet you still have the related question. This way, both your audience and you will have an educational experience.
I would like to know which types of activities the two beaches do not share. I know that they offer a lot of similar things (surfing, etc.), but I am just wondering if the location has anything to do with the differences they have in what they offer.
5. Using your classmates work from last week, tell us one thing you learned from 1 student. Is this one thing some common experience you share or some experience that is completely different than what you experienced? Is this one thing related to our class theoretical foundation and if so, how? Is that one thing related to historical or cultural context of this country or a different one? Link that persons blog to this entry (eg cut paste that blog entry here).
Dae-Hwan Kim taught me so much about China Town in San Francisco. I have never been there, but would love to go. Chinese culture is definitly a culture that intrigues me, but I have to be honest in saying that I have always been intimidated by it. I would love to learn more.
http://loftwick.blogspot.com/2008/06/2a-san-francisco-china-town.html
3a: World Cities
1. Contains a title using the format listed above.
3a: World Cities
2. Contains a web link to your locations.
http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/Home.aspx
http://cityofpetaluma.net/
3. Contains an explanation regarding how this component (any aspect of it; eg content of videos, content of websites) connects to your study of humanities.
Berkeley, California has quite the reputation. Although in comparison to many cities in California it is actually quite small, Berkeley is widely known for academic success, the arts, free speech and scientific exploration. The people of Berkeley are very involved in the politics of both the city and the world. According to the Berkeley website, only 5 percent of the population in Berkeley are Republicans, while 63 percent are Democrats.
Petaluma, California has come a long way. With the new renovations taking place, Petaluma has still maintained to keep a tight grip on the historical charm. Petaluma is one of the oldest cities in California. Both of these cities have created a culture of their own and they both have embraced several different forms of art as a culture.
4a: What are some assumptions/stereotypes you think people have of each location.
4b: List 3 things that make each location similar.
4c: List 3 things that make each location so different.
4d: Questioning: What else would you like to know about these places? When completing the question section, lead your audience into the question by stating a fact you do know, yet you still have the related question. This way, both your audience and you will have an educational experience.
I would like to know exactly how diverse each city really is. I know that both cities have a wide variety of different races and ethnicities, but it would be interesting to see numbers that correlate with this.
5. Using your classmates work from last week, tell us one thing you learned from one student. Is this one thing some common experience you share or some experience that is completely different than what you experienced? Is this one thing related to our class theoretical foundation and if so, how? Is that one thing related to historical or cultural context of this country or a different one? Link that persons blog to this entry (eg cut paste that blog entry here).
3a: World Cities
2. Contains a web link to your locations.
http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/Home.aspx
http://cityofpetaluma.net/
3. Contains an explanation regarding how this component (any aspect of it; eg content of videos, content of websites) connects to your study of humanities.
Berkeley, California has quite the reputation. Although in comparison to many cities in California it is actually quite small, Berkeley is widely known for academic success, the arts, free speech and scientific exploration. The people of Berkeley are very involved in the politics of both the city and the world. According to the Berkeley website, only 5 percent of the population in Berkeley are Republicans, while 63 percent are Democrats.
Petaluma, California has come a long way. With the new renovations taking place, Petaluma has still maintained to keep a tight grip on the historical charm. Petaluma is one of the oldest cities in California. Both of these cities have created a culture of their own and they both have embraced several different forms of art as a culture.
4a: What are some assumptions/stereotypes you think people have of each location.
As far as Petaluma goes, I think a lot of people would assume that people from Petaluma have the "small town" mentality, or are more closed minded than some. Also, I hear a lot of people joke about how we are all farmers and love country music.
In regard to Berkeley, people often assume that Berkeley is full of extremely liberal "tree-huggers." A lot of social movements begin in Berkeley, so it is common to be stereotyped as being against the government.
4b: List 3 things that make each location similar.
Both Petaluma and Berkeley have somewhat tight-knit communities. They both seem to have a large portion of the community involved in expressing their beliefs whether or not they go against higher authorities. Also, they both have protests. They both have a lot of extracurricular activies involving the arts; such as dance, music, festivals, etc. Another thing I noticed during my research about the two cities was that they are both in the midst of major renovations.
4c: List 3 things that make each location so different.
One thing that is obviously different about Berkeley and Petaluma is size. In the year 2000, Berkeley was more than twice the size of Petaluma. Berkeley's reputation is far more sturdy in regard to free speech. Also, Berkeley is known to be highly explorative scientifically and very successful academically.
4d: Questioning: What else would you like to know about these places? When completing the question section, lead your audience into the question by stating a fact you do know, yet you still have the related question. This way, both your audience and you will have an educational experience.
I would like to know exactly how diverse each city really is. I know that both cities have a wide variety of different races and ethnicities, but it would be interesting to see numbers that correlate with this.
5. Using your classmates work from last week, tell us one thing you learned from one student. Is this one thing some common experience you share or some experience that is completely different than what you experienced? Is this one thing related to our class theoretical foundation and if so, how? Is that one thing related to historical or cultural context of this country or a different one? Link that persons blog to this entry (eg cut paste that blog entry here).
Daniel Dibert and I both share very similar feelings on Truckee. The air there is so pure and it makes it a lot more enjoyable. I grew up spending many summers in the Truckee area. My best friend had a cabin in Tahoe, but we would always stop in Truckee on the way.
http://humanities7dan.blogspot.com/2008/06/week-2-project-2a-truckee.html
Saturday, July 5, 2008
2c: Gay Marriage
Contains a title using the format listed above.
2a: Same-sex marriage
Contains the sources you used with links to these sources.
http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2005/jul/050711a.html
http://www.beliefnet.com/story/136/story_13601_1.html
Contains a brief paragraph how it connects to your study of humanities.
Same-sex marriage connects to my study of humanities because the issue has created a cultural war. It has become a battle between morals, religion and personal opinion. It become a part of our culture that exists whether or not we choose to take part in it. Especially now that same-sex marriage is legal in California, those of us who reside here will be effected by it.
4a:Observation
I chose same-sex marriage. When I think of this choice I feel sad that something people cannot control is held against them living a happy life. I see a lot of judgment taking place and I hear a lot of derogatory comments being made toward gay people. I hear people discussing other people's lives as if it effects their hapiness.
4b:Interpretation
My choice is about the fact that laws are made against people who were not born with the exact same sexual desires as the average person. My choice is about how some people do not have a choice on how they live their lives, particulary their private lives.
4c:Judgment
What led me to my choice is the fact that I have a friend who is gay, but would never come out because of the disapproval this person would receive from not only his own family, but a vast majority of the people around him. I feel this way because people continue to use the word "gay" and many others I won't mention in his presence. It makes me sad that such an amazing person can't express who he really is, comfortably.
4d:Questioning
I would like to know why some people are more accepting than others when it comes to same-sex marriage. I know that many religious beliefs have a lot to do with people not accepting same-sex marriage, but where did that begin and why? One thing I do know is that a lot of younger people adobt their parents' beliefs on sexual orientation, not to mention the pressure of "fitting in."
5. One thing you learned from one student.
I know that my answer to this question may not be exactly what was asked, but I wanted to bring up something I learned from several students. I have noticed that a lot of people are taking this class online to save money on gas. I started taking classes online for the same reason, and because I have to work, which is another thing I noticed I have in common with several students.
2a: Same-sex marriage
Contains the sources you used with links to these sources.
http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2005/jul/050711a.html
http://www.beliefnet.com/story/136/story_13601_1.html
Contains a brief paragraph how it connects to your study of humanities.
Same-sex marriage connects to my study of humanities because the issue has created a cultural war. It has become a battle between morals, religion and personal opinion. It become a part of our culture that exists whether or not we choose to take part in it. Especially now that same-sex marriage is legal in California, those of us who reside here will be effected by it.
4a:Observation
I chose same-sex marriage. When I think of this choice I feel sad that something people cannot control is held against them living a happy life. I see a lot of judgment taking place and I hear a lot of derogatory comments being made toward gay people. I hear people discussing other people's lives as if it effects their hapiness.
4b:Interpretation
My choice is about the fact that laws are made against people who were not born with the exact same sexual desires as the average person. My choice is about how some people do not have a choice on how they live their lives, particulary their private lives.
4c:Judgment
What led me to my choice is the fact that I have a friend who is gay, but would never come out because of the disapproval this person would receive from not only his own family, but a vast majority of the people around him. I feel this way because people continue to use the word "gay" and many others I won't mention in his presence. It makes me sad that such an amazing person can't express who he really is, comfortably.
4d:Questioning
I would like to know why some people are more accepting than others when it comes to same-sex marriage. I know that many religious beliefs have a lot to do with people not accepting same-sex marriage, but where did that begin and why? One thing I do know is that a lot of younger people adobt their parents' beliefs on sexual orientation, not to mention the pressure of "fitting in."
5. One thing you learned from one student.
I know that my answer to this question may not be exactly what was asked, but I wanted to bring up something I learned from several students. I have noticed that a lot of people are taking this class online to save money on gas. I started taking classes online for the same reason, and because I have to work, which is another thing I noticed I have in common with several students.
2b: Museum of Making Music
Contains a title using the format listed above.
2b: Museum of Making Music
Contains the sources you used with links to these sources.
http://www.museumofmakingmusic.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=43&Itemid=53
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Museum_of_Making_Music
Contains a brief paragraph how it connects to your study of humanities.
Since the discovering of music, it has continued to be a popular way of human expression. No matter the instrument and whether or not there are words, music is an important form of sharing thoughts and feelings. Each culture has different ways of using music as a way of expressing themselves and that is how music is strongly connected to the study of humanities.
4a: Observation
I chose the Museum of Making Music. When I initially made this decision I was thinking about how important music is to me and how much it effects my life. It has the power to make me feel almost every emotion possible. Even if the emotion is a less-desirable one, I usually feel relieved after having listened to which ever instrument or type of song.
4b: Interpretation
My choice is about the history of musical instruments. The Museum of Making Music was founded in 1998. It explores the multifaceted history of the American music products industry from its beginnings in the 1890s to today. Housed at NAMM Headquarters in Carlsbad, California (north San Diego county), the Museum tells stories of hard work, challenge, inspiration and pioneering innovation, and reveals the profound relationship between the industry, popular music, and global culture. The Museum serves as a resource for the community of NAMM members through the preservation, interpretation and sharing of the industry’s collective history in a public museum context. In addition, it reveals the unique and often unknown story of the music products industry to the general public. And, through intimate concerts, films, discussions, hands-on workshops, volunteer opportunities and programs for underserved youth, the Museum opens doors to enable people of all ages and walks of life to find their way into the richly kaleidoscopic world of music making (http://www.museumofmakingmusic.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=43&Itemid=53, 2008).
4c: Judgment
As I stated in my 2a assignment, a very close friend of mine died almost two weeks ago. What I have found is that music is one of the only things helping me express and sort out my feelings. I have always known that music is important to me, but it was not until now that I realized how important it is as a way of expressing myself. What led me to my choice is the realization that music is a huge part of the culture I live in, as well as various other cultures. I feel glad that I chose to learn about the Museum of Making Music because I have never really studied music culture.
4d: Questioning
While I am already aware that there is such a thing as "music therapy," I would like to know more about it. Instead of one-on-one counseling with another person, or medication, many people choose to use music as their therapy. There are even music therapists. I would like to know exactly how it works and why certain types of music are used for certain types of situations.
5. One thing I learned from one student.
From Joseph Fitch, I learned that Paulo Freire received a law degree, but never ended up practicing law. I thought that was so amazing because most people spend their time in school working toward something they will actually use.
http://josephfitchsblog.blogspot.com/2008/06/hello-my-name-is-joey-and-i-am-taking.html
2b: Museum of Making Music
Contains the sources you used with links to these sources.
http://www.museumofmakingmusic.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=43&Itemid=53
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Museum_of_Making_Music
Contains a brief paragraph how it connects to your study of humanities.
Since the discovering of music, it has continued to be a popular way of human expression. No matter the instrument and whether or not there are words, music is an important form of sharing thoughts and feelings. Each culture has different ways of using music as a way of expressing themselves and that is how music is strongly connected to the study of humanities.
4a: Observation
I chose the Museum of Making Music. When I initially made this decision I was thinking about how important music is to me and how much it effects my life. It has the power to make me feel almost every emotion possible. Even if the emotion is a less-desirable one, I usually feel relieved after having listened to which ever instrument or type of song.
4b: Interpretation
My choice is about the history of musical instruments. The Museum of Making Music was founded in 1998. It explores the multifaceted history of the American music products industry from its beginnings in the 1890s to today. Housed at NAMM Headquarters in Carlsbad, California (north San Diego county), the Museum tells stories of hard work, challenge, inspiration and pioneering innovation, and reveals the profound relationship between the industry, popular music, and global culture. The Museum serves as a resource for the community of NAMM members through the preservation, interpretation and sharing of the industry’s collective history in a public museum context. In addition, it reveals the unique and often unknown story of the music products industry to the general public. And, through intimate concerts, films, discussions, hands-on workshops, volunteer opportunities and programs for underserved youth, the Museum opens doors to enable people of all ages and walks of life to find their way into the richly kaleidoscopic world of music making (http://www.museumofmakingmusic.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=43&Itemid=53, 2008).
4c: Judgment
As I stated in my 2a assignment, a very close friend of mine died almost two weeks ago. What I have found is that music is one of the only things helping me express and sort out my feelings. I have always known that music is important to me, but it was not until now that I realized how important it is as a way of expressing myself. What led me to my choice is the realization that music is a huge part of the culture I live in, as well as various other cultures. I feel glad that I chose to learn about the Museum of Making Music because I have never really studied music culture.
4d: Questioning
While I am already aware that there is such a thing as "music therapy," I would like to know more about it. Instead of one-on-one counseling with another person, or medication, many people choose to use music as their therapy. There are even music therapists. I would like to know exactly how it works and why certain types of music are used for certain types of situations.
5. One thing I learned from one student.
From Joseph Fitch, I learned that Paulo Freire received a law degree, but never ended up practicing law. I thought that was so amazing because most people spend their time in school working toward something they will actually use.
http://josephfitchsblog.blogspot.com/2008/06/hello-my-name-is-joey-and-i-am-taking.html
Friday, July 4, 2008
2a: Santa Barbara
Contains a title using the format listed above.
2a: Santa Barbara
Contains the sources you used with links to these sources.
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g33045-s202/Santa-Barbara:California:Culture.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Barbara%2C_California
Contains a brief paragraph how it connects to your study of humanities.
Santa Barbara connects to my study of humanities in many ways. First, there are major cultural influences on Santa Barbara, particularly Spanish history. After researching this fact, I learned that much of the creativity in Santa Barbara stems from Spanish ways. It is not so much thought of as Hispanic or Mexican, but rather thought of as Spanish. Second, many Ranchero traditions are still present in Santa Barbara, like rodeos, barbeques and trail rides on horses. Even though a lot of time has passed since Santa Barbara came about, the old cultural influences still remain.
4a: Observation
I chose to look into the culture in Santa Barbara, California. I chose this particular place because a very close friend of mine passed away about ten days ago and he lived in Santa Barbara. I drove down there when I heard about the accident and realized that I did not know nearly as much as I would have liked to about his life in Santa Barbara. When I think about Santa Barbara I think about beaches. I hear the ocean and the sound of people outside being active. Anytime I visited him there were always people out and about enjoying the beautiful weather. I see a lot of younger people when I think about Santa Barbara, since it is a popular college town. What stands out in my mind the most is my friend, who has passed on, trying to make a life for himself.
4b: Interpretation
My choice is about gaining a deeper understanding of the last five years of my dear friends life. This whole experience has made me realize that we do not have all the time in the world and we should live every day as if it is our last. I cannot go back in time and redo the last five years, so I would like to learn more about his final years. Also, I would like to think about anything other than the hospital there, since that was my last time visiting.
4c: Judgment
What led me to my choice was the realization that from here on out I want everything in my life to be meaningful and of some sort of significance. I wanted to pick a place that meant something to me, instead of just picking a place that I already knew a lot about. I feel that the reason I chose this is because I am having such a hard time focusing on anything that does not in some way relate to my friend.
4d: Questioning
I learned that UCSB, for fifty years, has been a major contributor to Santa Barbara culture. What I would like to know is a rough idea on the leading majors at UCSB. Although I found out that Santa Barbara attracts many artists and performers, my friend was far from both of these career paths.
5: One thing I learned from one student.
I learned that Lisa and I are both taking two online classes over summer and we are both feeling like it is harder to manage than we thought. I think time management has a lot to do with culture. Our society is very fast-paced and when we cannot keep up with it sometimes we feel we have failed. I know that lately I feel like a failure in school because I am just now starting and I am extremely behind.
http://crosbyfan.blogspot.com/2008/06/assignment-1a.html
2a: Santa Barbara
Contains the sources you used with links to these sources.
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g33045-s202/Santa-Barbara:California:Culture.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Barbara%2C_California
Contains a brief paragraph how it connects to your study of humanities.
Santa Barbara connects to my study of humanities in many ways. First, there are major cultural influences on Santa Barbara, particularly Spanish history. After researching this fact, I learned that much of the creativity in Santa Barbara stems from Spanish ways. It is not so much thought of as Hispanic or Mexican, but rather thought of as Spanish. Second, many Ranchero traditions are still present in Santa Barbara, like rodeos, barbeques and trail rides on horses. Even though a lot of time has passed since Santa Barbara came about, the old cultural influences still remain.
4a: Observation
I chose to look into the culture in Santa Barbara, California. I chose this particular place because a very close friend of mine passed away about ten days ago and he lived in Santa Barbara. I drove down there when I heard about the accident and realized that I did not know nearly as much as I would have liked to about his life in Santa Barbara. When I think about Santa Barbara I think about beaches. I hear the ocean and the sound of people outside being active. Anytime I visited him there were always people out and about enjoying the beautiful weather. I see a lot of younger people when I think about Santa Barbara, since it is a popular college town. What stands out in my mind the most is my friend, who has passed on, trying to make a life for himself.
4b: Interpretation
My choice is about gaining a deeper understanding of the last five years of my dear friends life. This whole experience has made me realize that we do not have all the time in the world and we should live every day as if it is our last. I cannot go back in time and redo the last five years, so I would like to learn more about his final years. Also, I would like to think about anything other than the hospital there, since that was my last time visiting.
4c: Judgment
What led me to my choice was the realization that from here on out I want everything in my life to be meaningful and of some sort of significance. I wanted to pick a place that meant something to me, instead of just picking a place that I already knew a lot about. I feel that the reason I chose this is because I am having such a hard time focusing on anything that does not in some way relate to my friend.
4d: Questioning
I learned that UCSB, for fifty years, has been a major contributor to Santa Barbara culture. What I would like to know is a rough idea on the leading majors at UCSB. Although I found out that Santa Barbara attracts many artists and performers, my friend was far from both of these career paths.
5: One thing I learned from one student.
I learned that Lisa and I are both taking two online classes over summer and we are both feeling like it is harder to manage than we thought. I think time management has a lot to do with culture. Our society is very fast-paced and when we cannot keep up with it sometimes we feel we have failed. I know that lately I feel like a failure in school because I am just now starting and I am extremely behind.
http://crosbyfan.blogspot.com/2008/06/assignment-1a.html
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Week 1: Project 1C
Dorothy Guajardo is a psychology major. From her, I learned that Paulo Freire was imprisoned as a traitor for 70 days due to his compassion towards education. Also, I learned that he taught 300 farm workers to read in 45 days!
Denya Beaudry is a business and information systems major. She taught me that the reason Freire taught the farm workers to read was because of the law that one must be literate to vote in a Presidential Election. I also found out that liberation theology is a part of Christianity that focuses of the "origin of sin".
Denya Beaudry is a business and information systems major. She taught me that the reason Freire taught the farm workers to read was because of the law that one must be literate to vote in a Presidential Election. I also found out that liberation theology is a part of Christianity that focuses of the "origin of sin".
Week 1: Project 1B
A very important fact to acknowledge about Paulo Freire was the time he grew up. During the Depression, while living Northeast of Brazil, Freire was exposed to heart-wrenching and eye-opening issues. The first-and experience he had with hunger and poverty had a deep impact on his life path. It is important to understand his background before forming opinions on his work.
Freire's involvement in education is quite admirable, since most of us do not question how we are taught. He looked at education as a "banking" concept; the student being the empty bank account that the teacher would fill. He was against this idea and for a more equal approach to learning.
Freire's beliefs evolved into a social idea of critical consciousness. To elaborate on his ideas, he believed that learners should question their social situation, rather than just accept everything as is. In addition to this, Freire believed that both the teacher and student should engage in learning, questioning and reflecting. More often than not, it is assumed that the teacher knows everything and the student knows nothing.
Sources: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paulo_Freire, http://www.paulofreireinstitute.org/
Freire's involvement in education is quite admirable, since most of us do not question how we are taught. He looked at education as a "banking" concept; the student being the empty bank account that the teacher would fill. He was against this idea and for a more equal approach to learning.
Freire's beliefs evolved into a social idea of critical consciousness. To elaborate on his ideas, he believed that learners should question their social situation, rather than just accept everything as is. In addition to this, Freire believed that both the teacher and student should engage in learning, questioning and reflecting. More often than not, it is assumed that the teacher knows everything and the student knows nothing.
Sources: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paulo_Freire, http://www.paulofreireinstitute.org/
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Week 1: Project 1A
Hello Everyone~
My name is Lauren. I have never created a blog, so hopefully this works! I am taking this class because I took a humanities class a couple years ago and since then I cannot go a semester without taking one. I live in Petaluma, which is about twenty minutes from the Santa Rosa Junior College Campus; however, I always take classes at the Petaluma campus, or online. Because I have taken a few humanities classes already, I think it is funny that I am just now taking "Introduction to the Humanities." I am not sure why I did not just start here, but either way, I hope to develop an even deeper understanding of different cultures and ways that people choose to express themselves. I believe that much of the conflict between different types of people stems from the fact that many people choose to let differences scare them away, rather than try to understand why people are different. I look forward to working with all of you!
My name is Lauren. I have never created a blog, so hopefully this works! I am taking this class because I took a humanities class a couple years ago and since then I cannot go a semester without taking one. I live in Petaluma, which is about twenty minutes from the Santa Rosa Junior College Campus; however, I always take classes at the Petaluma campus, or online. Because I have taken a few humanities classes already, I think it is funny that I am just now taking "Introduction to the Humanities." I am not sure why I did not just start here, but either way, I hope to develop an even deeper understanding of different cultures and ways that people choose to express themselves. I believe that much of the conflict between different types of people stems from the fact that many people choose to let differences scare them away, rather than try to understand why people are different. I look forward to working with all of you!
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