Sorting Myths and Cyberbole from Trends and Tipping Points

Reading Summary

This chapter covered the idea of media from its different forms, and uses to how we interact and respond to each. Different arguments were made concerning platform use and the affect on society. Media comes in many forms from print to virtual. As technology advances, print is being less used and virtual media is taking over the world. The way we interact and use print media is different than virtual. They may share the same information but provide different opportunities for exploration and use. Print media is argued to have a shorter shelf live where virtual media is seen to be less realistic. The chapter provides counter arguments for both. Although media can appear as less personal, many people who have struggled with human interactions are finding comfort and ability to express themselves better virtually. Whether this is a true form of self can be argued. Media is also an interchangeable term. Not only is it a way to identify form but also represents the content shared. Even though virtual media is constantly growing, print still exists and is used despite those who believed it would come to a complete stop. Print and virtual create different experiences for the users.

Outside Connection

The different platforms of media and how we use it brought our new learning environment zoom to mind. Being in class physically and online are two very different experiences not only for students but professors. In class everyone is physically present and can be seen. There’s no hiding when it comes to being in class. Having the zoom platform allows an option to be physically present or not. Additionally many of my professors still relied heavily on white boards or handouts in class and now rely more heavily on lectures or powerpoint creating a different learning environment.

Reading Connection

The reading talked about a shift in behavior in terms of print and virtual interactions. There were many examples of people being more comfortable with their true self online then in person. They were able to form better relationships and be more outspoken. With class being on Zoom I think there are two sides to this. One, those who are more quiet like me may feel more comfortable speaking up in class because there is less pressure talking to a screen then in front of physical humans where you can tell who’s paying attention or not. Students who are naturally more outspoken may be unfazed by the virtual tradition and how they participate in class. For professors this is more likely less enjoyable and harder for them to talk and deliver lessons without the affirmation that students are listening and interacting.