For Project 1, I am going to commit to the Quick Reference Guide genre. I feel that this genre is most appropriate for the Controversy Postmortem because it will make it easy to stay factual and impartial.
I think the conventions of this genre are perfect because I can use the subheadings and bullet points to keep everything organized. My particular content, the story of Kristen Lindsey and the revocation of her veterinary license, should be relayed in a chronological order. The QRG will allow me to organize in so many different ways, it's a dream come true.
I feel pretty good about this project in general, but I wouldn't say that I'm extremely excited about it if I'm being honest. It is going to be really hard to not voice my own opinion. I think my biggest challenge for this particular project will be to keep everything concise and have it all fit on one page. There are a lot of facts about my topic and I will need to be very selective in what I prioritize for the QRG.
Sunday, January 31, 2016
Cluster of Stakeholders
Here is a link to my cluster of Stakeholders in the case of Kristen Lindsey, the Veterinarian who purposefully killed Tiger the cat with a bow and arrow.
In this cluster I included not only the owners of Tiger, and Lindsey herself, but also local pet owners and supporters of justice for Tiger.
George, Ellie, 04/24/2015 via Facebook
In this cluster I included not only the owners of Tiger, and Lindsey herself, but also local pet owners and supporters of justice for Tiger.
Evaluation of General Sources
As I searched for sources for my Controversy Postmortem project, the main websites I came across were news sites. The first one that I clicked on, veterinarynews.dvm360.com, had plenty of stories and studies on Veterinary Physicians. Here is the one on the story that I am focusing on. The other site that I am using as one of my main sources is Huffington Post, and here is the article.
As these sites are both dedicated to general news and entertainment, they both end in ".com", showing that they are for commercial use. While most internet news sites are not usually considered to be the most credible form of obtaining information, The Huffington Post has made a name for itself.
The author for the DVM360 article is only identified as dvm360 Staff, so I was unable to find any information on the other pieces or companies that he/she wrote for. The article was written and published on October 5, 2015. The author of the second article is Arin Greenwood, the Animal Welfare Editor at Huffington Post. She is a former lawyer who got her Law Degree from Columbia University in New York City. The article that I viewed on the Huffington Post was published on October 1, 2015.
Both stories were very similar, and had a lot of the same information. They did a great job of relaying all of the information about the case of Kristen Lindsey. Neither story, however, was unbiased. Both clearly were in support of taking away Lindey's veterinary license.
As these sites are both dedicated to general news and entertainment, they both end in ".com", showing that they are for commercial use. While most internet news sites are not usually considered to be the most credible form of obtaining information, The Huffington Post has made a name for itself.
skeeze, "Veterinarian", 06/05/2011 via Pixabay, Public Domain
The author for the DVM360 article is only identified as dvm360 Staff, so I was unable to find any information on the other pieces or companies that he/she wrote for. The article was written and published on October 5, 2015. The author of the second article is Arin Greenwood, the Animal Welfare Editor at Huffington Post. She is a former lawyer who got her Law Degree from Columbia University in New York City. The article that I viewed on the Huffington Post was published on October 1, 2015.
Both stories were very similar, and had a lot of the same information. They did a great job of relaying all of the information about the case of Kristen Lindsey. Neither story, however, was unbiased. Both clearly were in support of taking away Lindey's veterinary license.
Saturday, January 30, 2016
Reddit and What I Found There
As I explored Reddit for the first time, I kept revisiting the very first question that caught my eye. "Is the Veterinary path worth it?" submitted in 2012 by the user skintay12. Surprisingly there were a lot of posts similar to this one. I expected to see a lot more professionals on Reddit, as we discussed in class, but the majority of the posts were from students and pet owners.
The fact that this particular post was from a college student made it especially relatable at first, however when I clicked and read the comments most people were more concerned with the student than the animals. From the initially question, I thought that the debate would be more about the ethical challenges, or emotional toll that being a Vet takes on a person, and whether or not it will be worth it to help the animals; the actual reasoning behind the question was whether or not there is a successful future for someone in Veterinary Science who does not go to Veterinary School.
While this is not what I expected, I was still intrigued. Having taken a Veterinary Science Colloquium my freshman year, I know many paths that are accessible for a Vet. Sci. major who does not want to go to graduate school. All of the comments, however, were encouraging this user to choose ANY other path. The reasoning behind these arguments all had to do with the amount of effort that the degree requires versus the lucrativeness of potential occupations.
Of course that is important, but personally I had never considered that as a main motivator for this degree, but rather the general well-being of animals. One interesting point that stuck out to me was that if you can't handle Medical School, you definitely can't handle Veterinary School. You learn all of the same things, but in Veterinary School you have to learn it 200x over, because every species has a different anatomy.
As I previously stated, I did not expect topics such as this to be so prevalent on the Reddit forums, but once I started reading I became way too involved. I may have taken the negativity towards veterinary science a little too personally, and while I disagree with what the majority said, I understand where they are coming from. People are deterred from this discipline for the same reason they would be deterred from any medical profession.
As I tried to cool off after reading that post, I came across an article that looked light-hearted and fun, Dr. Tony Buffington, a professor at Ohio State, was doing an AMA about cats! His username on Reddit is DrBuffCat. No joke. As a dog person, I figured it was only fair to try to educate myself on cat people (and why they are the way they are).
There were students asking for help with exam questions, general pet help, asking how to tell if their cat loves them more than their spouse, and plenty of other ridiculous questions. I was just really attracted to this article because it wasn't so serious, like the rest of them. As I enter into a profession that has a lot of stress associated with it, it is nice to see that not EVERYTHING has to be approached with a stoneface.
Anyways, I wanted to learn more about "cat people" and I did. They are nuts. There were so many strange questions that make cats seem like such complicated beings. I could give my dog a piece of rope that he has never seen before and he will be happy for a week. Apparently cats get pissed if you put a pen on the table and assert their dominance by swatting it off...
While I still think "cat people" are crazy, I enjoyed reading this thread overall. I thought it was especially cool to see this Veterinarian and college professor, two titles that imply someone is serious, being so silly on Reddit. He interacted with inquirers in an informative and friendly way, the way I would want my vet to speak to me if (heaven forbid) anything happened to my dog.
The fact that this particular post was from a college student made it especially relatable at first, however when I clicked and read the comments most people were more concerned with the student than the animals. From the initially question, I thought that the debate would be more about the ethical challenges, or emotional toll that being a Vet takes on a person, and whether or not it will be worth it to help the animals; the actual reasoning behind the question was whether or not there is a successful future for someone in Veterinary Science who does not go to Veterinary School.
While this is not what I expected, I was still intrigued. Having taken a Veterinary Science Colloquium my freshman year, I know many paths that are accessible for a Vet. Sci. major who does not want to go to graduate school. All of the comments, however, were encouraging this user to choose ANY other path. The reasoning behind these arguments all had to do with the amount of effort that the degree requires versus the lucrativeness of potential occupations.
Of course that is important, but personally I had never considered that as a main motivator for this degree, but rather the general well-being of animals. One interesting point that stuck out to me was that if you can't handle Medical School, you definitely can't handle Veterinary School. You learn all of the same things, but in Veterinary School you have to learn it 200x over, because every species has a different anatomy.
As I previously stated, I did not expect topics such as this to be so prevalent on the Reddit forums, but once I started reading I became way too involved. I may have taken the negativity towards veterinary science a little too personally, and while I disagree with what the majority said, I understand where they are coming from. People are deterred from this discipline for the same reason they would be deterred from any medical profession.
USDA, "A veterinarian in field with cattle", via flickr 09/27/2007, Attribution-2.0-Generic
As I tried to cool off after reading that post, I came across an article that looked light-hearted and fun, Dr. Tony Buffington, a professor at Ohio State, was doing an AMA about cats! His username on Reddit is DrBuffCat. No joke. As a dog person, I figured it was only fair to try to educate myself on cat people (and why they are the way they are).
There were students asking for help with exam questions, general pet help, asking how to tell if their cat loves them more than their spouse, and plenty of other ridiculous questions. I was just really attracted to this article because it wasn't so serious, like the rest of them. As I enter into a profession that has a lot of stress associated with it, it is nice to see that not EVERYTHING has to be approached with a stoneface.
Anyways, I wanted to learn more about "cat people" and I did. They are nuts. There were so many strange questions that make cats seem like such complicated beings. I could give my dog a piece of rope that he has never seen before and he will be happy for a week. Apparently cats get pissed if you put a pen on the table and assert their dominance by swatting it off...
George, Ellie, "Riley", 2015 via SnapChat/Instagram
While I still think "cat people" are crazy, I enjoyed reading this thread overall. I thought it was especially cool to see this Veterinarian and college professor, two titles that imply someone is serious, being so silly on Reddit. He interacted with inquirers in an informative and friendly way, the way I would want my vet to speak to me if (heaven forbid) anything happened to my dog.
Sullivan, Matthew, "I'm not a cat person..." via flickr 11/21/2014, Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Evaluation of News Magazine Stories
The first story that I looked at is titled "The Pacific Fishery is Having a Rough Year" By Chris Crowley for the New York Magazine. There were not very many controversial stories in any of these magazines in regards to Veterinary Science, but there is plenty of debate over the effects of global climate change on wild, agricultural, and domestic animals alike. In this particular article, the focus is on the sea lions who reside on the Pacific coast of the United States.
There are extreme levels of domoic acid, a neurotoxin, in crabs on the west coast due to algae blooms from the unseasonably warm weather. Humans know about this, so they aren't eating the crabs right now, but the sea lions don't have scientists to tell them whether or not it is safe to eat these crustaceans. A Marine Mammal Center conservation medicine veterinarian, Claire Simeone, told Crowley that over 213 sea lions have been affected by this neurotoxin in 2015, 80% of which died. According to scientists, more massive blooms will continue to happen in the future.
The most sympathetic person in this story seems to be Claire Simeone, since she is the one who is actively treating and trying to save all of these sea lions. Other scientists and researchers are certainly trying to help, but Simeone is the one who is hands-on with the sick animals; she has direct contact with them the same way a doctor would with his/her human patients, so losing so many of them has to take an emotional toll.
The least sympathetic characters in this story, to me, are the fishermen. If you read the article, you know that many fisheries have been shut down for numerous reasons, but fishing itself caused many of them. The extinction of species, and disruption of the entire ecosystem, can be attributed to the many fisheries located on the west coast. I understand that fishing is how these men/women earn a living, but I find it difficult to sympathize with them due to all of the damage fishing has done to our Earth.
There are extreme levels of domoic acid, a neurotoxin, in crabs on the west coast due to algae blooms from the unseasonably warm weather. Humans know about this, so they aren't eating the crabs right now, but the sea lions don't have scientists to tell them whether or not it is safe to eat these crustaceans. A Marine Mammal Center conservation medicine veterinarian, Claire Simeone, told Crowley that over 213 sea lions have been affected by this neurotoxin in 2015, 80% of which died. According to scientists, more massive blooms will continue to happen in the future.
The most sympathetic person in this story seems to be Claire Simeone, since she is the one who is actively treating and trying to save all of these sea lions. Other scientists and researchers are certainly trying to help, but Simeone is the one who is hands-on with the sick animals; she has direct contact with them the same way a doctor would with his/her human patients, so losing so many of them has to take an emotional toll.
The least sympathetic characters in this story, to me, are the fishermen. If you read the article, you know that many fisheries have been shut down for numerous reasons, but fishing itself caused many of them. The extinction of species, and disruption of the entire ecosystem, can be attributed to the many fisheries located on the west coast. I understand that fishing is how these men/women earn a living, but I find it difficult to sympathize with them due to all of the damage fishing has done to our Earth.
User 442683,"Sea Lion", 02/12/2015 via pixabay.com, Public domain
The second article that intrigued me is titled "The Dark Underside of the Show-Dog World" by Mark Seal for Vanity Fair Magazine. I was truly shocked as I read this article. As someone who loves all dogs more than most humans, reading about the poisoning of a dog was horrific.
Yes, you read that correctly. someone POISONED A DOG. Jagger was an Irish Setter who placed second at the Crufts Dog Show in Birmingham, England. He was died shortly after returning home on March 6, 2015 to Lauw, Belgium. An autopsy showed pieces of beef containing poison in Jagger's gastrointestinal tract. Aleksandra Lauwers, his owner and companion, was especially devastated by her loss.
SWNS Group, "Thendara Satisfaction", 03/09/2015 via vanityfair.com, Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDervis
It is easiest to sympathize with Lauwers, because as she expressed in a Facebook post shortly after Jagger's death, she had such a great love for her dog beyond the Dog Show world. "...I hope you can sleep well knowing you have killed our love, family member, and best friend to our son," wrote Lauwers. Jagger was not only a show dog and family companion, but he was also a therapy dog for the elderly. There are so many reasons to sympathize with the Lauwers family, especially since whoever poisoned Jagger is still unknown.
While the culprit is never named or known in the story, he/she/it is still a major character, and definitely not one anyone can sympathize with. Was this a malicious act of a psychopath without purpose? Was the culprit jealous of Jagger's elite status? Are any of these reason enough to kill a dog? No. It is also hard to sympathize with the directors of the Crufts Dog Show, because that is where it is presumed that the poisoning happened. These dogs should be watched meticulously not only by their owners, but also by the employees of the show. No dog should be able to eat anything that came from outside the show, and all food at the show should be monitored.
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Twitter and What I Found There: Vets and Vegans
1. What kinds of things do people on twitter seem to be talking about, debating, arguing about, or otherwise engaging in meaningful exchanges of ideas about? Give us a descriptive and clear sense of the kinds of stories you're seeing in these twitter feeds.
When I searched "Veterinarian" on Twitter, I was surprised to find many accounts dedicated to Veterinary News, just like a Medical News account, but for animals! Most of the current news has to do with winter, how to care for pets that go outdoors often when there is snow and/or extreme temperatures. Along with these current posts, there are also news posts about animal cruelty, disease, miracles, and more. However, I did not find any interactive or ongoing Twitter discussions about any of these stories. I decided to broaden my search to include another passion of mine, which is veganism. I am already familiar with many Twitter accounts about veganism, and they include news articles, data, quotes from doctors/celebrities/civilians, and almost all aim to end animal cruelty.
2. In your opinion, what are the two most interesting conversations or stories you found in the Twitter feeds? Hyperlink us to the two different Twitter feeds and explain why you found them interesting.
I chose one story from each topic that I searched on Twitter. The tweet with the veterinary article that I found most interesting was about second-hand smoke and how it affects pets, making them more likely to have health problems. When I saw the title I thought "duh", but then I realized that humans probably don't take animals into consideration when they are smoking. Honestly, the article was not very capturing, but the topic is. Pet owners have a responsibility to take care of their animals as best they can, and to expose them to something that is damaging to their health, and SO easy to avoid (just go outside) is cruel. The study being conducted in the article is unfinished, so it doesn't really have a professional foothold yet, but it seems like common sense to me.
The other tweet that I found interesting was from one of my favorite Twitter accounts, now if you click on the article I have to warn you it is very graphic in regards to the Egg Industry. I know that posting about veganism is so stereotypical of a vegan, and no one will REALLY want to look at this article because it makes them sad or uncomfortable or nauseous, but doesn't that alone tell you something? If these actions were ok, or ethically sound, why would we be so repulsed by these pictures about the egg industry? In my opinion, it is not even the worst part of animal agriculture. Anyways, this article of 21 secrets that the Egg Industry doesn't want us to know does a great job of educating us on the sacrifices that are made in order for you to have an omelette in the morning. I have seen all of this footage before, and I already knew what the conditions were like in these egg farms, but looking at those pictures and reading descriptions of what the chickens go through in this particular order should awaken compassion in even the most devoutly carnivorous human. The idea that animals are on this earth for us to exploit and use as we please is baffling; those chickens have just as much right to their lives as we do, and I bet that their life means infinitely more to them than their death could possibly mean to us.
3. Overall, what impression did you get of your discipline based on what you saw happening on Twitter? Were the people in these feeds talking in ways you expected or did not expect, about things you anticipated they'd be talking about or things you had no idea they'd be discussing? Explain in concise specific detail.
I expected to find more scientific facts, medical cases, etc. on the different accounts that I looked at. The most common type of article or comment on the veterinary Twitter accounts were geared towards pet owners, which makes sense. I guess I had just never thought of Veterinarians in a casual sense, I typically think of them as doctors who are always serious and whatnot. I was not surprised to find a lot of advice, warnings, and animal news stories on the accounts, but it is difficult to really say anything substantial in 140 characters or less. On the vegan Twitter accounts, I didn't see anything surprising to me personally. I was already familiar with many of them, and they almost always have some sort of mixture of cartoons, graphics, statistics, quotes, opinions, etc.
When I searched "Veterinarian" on Twitter, I was surprised to find many accounts dedicated to Veterinary News, just like a Medical News account, but for animals! Most of the current news has to do with winter, how to care for pets that go outdoors often when there is snow and/or extreme temperatures. Along with these current posts, there are also news posts about animal cruelty, disease, miracles, and more. However, I did not find any interactive or ongoing Twitter discussions about any of these stories. I decided to broaden my search to include another passion of mine, which is veganism. I am already familiar with many Twitter accounts about veganism, and they include news articles, data, quotes from doctors/celebrities/civilians, and almost all aim to end animal cruelty.
2. In your opinion, what are the two most interesting conversations or stories you found in the Twitter feeds? Hyperlink us to the two different Twitter feeds and explain why you found them interesting.
I chose one story from each topic that I searched on Twitter. The tweet with the veterinary article that I found most interesting was about second-hand smoke and how it affects pets, making them more likely to have health problems. When I saw the title I thought "duh", but then I realized that humans probably don't take animals into consideration when they are smoking. Honestly, the article was not very capturing, but the topic is. Pet owners have a responsibility to take care of their animals as best they can, and to expose them to something that is damaging to their health, and SO easy to avoid (just go outside) is cruel. The study being conducted in the article is unfinished, so it doesn't really have a professional foothold yet, but it seems like common sense to me.
The other tweet that I found interesting was from one of my favorite Twitter accounts, now if you click on the article I have to warn you it is very graphic in regards to the Egg Industry. I know that posting about veganism is so stereotypical of a vegan, and no one will REALLY want to look at this article because it makes them sad or uncomfortable or nauseous, but doesn't that alone tell you something? If these actions were ok, or ethically sound, why would we be so repulsed by these pictures about the egg industry? In my opinion, it is not even the worst part of animal agriculture. Anyways, this article of 21 secrets that the Egg Industry doesn't want us to know does a great job of educating us on the sacrifices that are made in order for you to have an omelette in the morning. I have seen all of this footage before, and I already knew what the conditions were like in these egg farms, but looking at those pictures and reading descriptions of what the chickens go through in this particular order should awaken compassion in even the most devoutly carnivorous human. The idea that animals are on this earth for us to exploit and use as we please is baffling; those chickens have just as much right to their lives as we do, and I bet that their life means infinitely more to them than their death could possibly mean to us.
3. Overall, what impression did you get of your discipline based on what you saw happening on Twitter? Were the people in these feeds talking in ways you expected or did not expect, about things you anticipated they'd be talking about or things you had no idea they'd be discussing? Explain in concise specific detail.
I expected to find more scientific facts, medical cases, etc. on the different accounts that I looked at. The most common type of article or comment on the veterinary Twitter accounts were geared towards pet owners, which makes sense. I guess I had just never thought of Veterinarians in a casual sense, I typically think of them as doctors who are always serious and whatnot. I was not surprised to find a lot of advice, warnings, and animal news stories on the accounts, but it is difficult to really say anything substantial in 140 characters or less. On the vegan Twitter accounts, I didn't see anything surprising to me personally. I was already familiar with many of them, and they almost always have some sort of mixture of cartoons, graphics, statistics, quotes, opinions, etc.
Monday, January 25, 2016
Evaluation of New York Times Stories
"When Athletes Go Gluten Free" By Gretchen Reynolds -New York Times Health
1. Does there seem to be a main character or protagonist to the story? If so, who is it and how are they the center of the story? If not, are there any important or central characters to the story at all? What role do they play?
There are a few "main characters" in this New York Times story: Dana Lis (Ph.D. candidate) and her colleagues from the University of Tasmania in Australia/Canadian Sport Institute Pacific in British Columbia, and 13 competitive cyclists. These people are the central characters because the story summarizes a study conducted by Ms. Lis and her colleagues where the cyclists are presented with diets containing different levels of gluten.
2. Where do the specific events in the story take place? Is there a specific setting? Describe the settings for the story and how it influences the plot and characters.
It is not specifically said where the study takes place, but we can assume that it is either in Australia in close proximity to the University of Tasmania, or in British Columbia. They have to be conducting the study in a place that is biker-friendly, since the cyclists have a customized schedule that they all must follow. Other than that, I don't think the setting would affect the study much at all.
3. Is there any kind of disagreement or debate happening in the story? If so, who is participating, why are people debating and what seems to be at stake for the different characters in the story?
Ms. Lis and her colleagues are trying to either prove or disprove the "gluten-free" fad that has been popular around the world. Part of the introduction to the story notes that only 13% of people who follow gluten-free diets have actually been diagnosed by a medical professional, so that implies that they are trying to disprove the notion that going gluten-free will have any effect on the average athlete's health and performance. Since only 13 cyclists were studied, no official conclusion can really be drawn, but the results of the study suggested that gluten intake has no effect on athletic performance for these 13 cyclists.
"Gas Leak in Los Angeles Has Residents Looking Warily Toward Flint" By Ian Lovett -New York Times Science
1. Does there seem to be a main character or protagonist to the story? If so, who is it and how are they the center of the story? If not, are there any important or central characters to the story at all? What role do they play?
The main characters in this story are the residents of the Porter Ranch Neighborhood near LA, specifically David Balen, John Mikaili, and many others who were interviewed. Furthermore, the Los Angeles Department of Public Health (specifically those named in the article), Erin Brockovich, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are all central characters as well because they are all involved in the gas leak controversy. Brockovich and Kennedy are both environmental health advocates who were lending a hand to the Porter Ranch community, encouraging the residents to file a lawsuit against the LA Department of Public Health.
2. Where do the specific events in the story take place? Is there a specific setting? Describe the settings for the story and how it influences the plot and characters.
The setting in the story is mainly in Los Angeles, but there are also references to Flint, Michigan, Hinkley, California, and Charleston, West Virginia because these are all places that have experienced similar disasters in the past. The suburban setting of Porter Ranch, Los Angeles has a major influence on the story because it is a fairly wealthy and well-known area of the country. Families and individuals move to neighborhoods like this one in order to feel secure and confident that disasters like this won't happen.
3. Is there any kind of disagreement or debate happening in the story? If so, who is participating, why are people debating and what seems to be at stake for the different characters in the story?
There is absolutely a disagreement in the story. In short, the Health Department deemed the air in Porter Ranch safe for the residents, even though it may "cause vomiting, nose-bleeds, and other minor symptoms, there will be no long-term health effects. The citizens do not believe what the Department is telling them, and are taking action against the city. Obviously the city of Los Angeles has a lot at stake (money, reputation, multiple civil suits, federal regulations, etc) but the citizens are convinced that their health and well-being is at stake, which is much more important. As of now, the leak continues to spew methane (among other chemicals) into the air, and will not be plugged until late February.
1. Does there seem to be a main character or protagonist to the story? If so, who is it and how are they the center of the story? If not, are there any important or central characters to the story at all? What role do they play?
There are a few "main characters" in this New York Times story: Dana Lis (Ph.D. candidate) and her colleagues from the University of Tasmania in Australia/Canadian Sport Institute Pacific in British Columbia, and 13 competitive cyclists. These people are the central characters because the story summarizes a study conducted by Ms. Lis and her colleagues where the cyclists are presented with diets containing different levels of gluten.
2. Where do the specific events in the story take place? Is there a specific setting? Describe the settings for the story and how it influences the plot and characters.
It is not specifically said where the study takes place, but we can assume that it is either in Australia in close proximity to the University of Tasmania, or in British Columbia. They have to be conducting the study in a place that is biker-friendly, since the cyclists have a customized schedule that they all must follow. Other than that, I don't think the setting would affect the study much at all.
3. Is there any kind of disagreement or debate happening in the story? If so, who is participating, why are people debating and what seems to be at stake for the different characters in the story?
Ms. Lis and her colleagues are trying to either prove or disprove the "gluten-free" fad that has been popular around the world. Part of the introduction to the story notes that only 13% of people who follow gluten-free diets have actually been diagnosed by a medical professional, so that implies that they are trying to disprove the notion that going gluten-free will have any effect on the average athlete's health and performance. Since only 13 cyclists were studied, no official conclusion can really be drawn, but the results of the study suggested that gluten intake has no effect on athletic performance for these 13 cyclists.
"Gas Leak in Los Angeles Has Residents Looking Warily Toward Flint" By Ian Lovett -New York Times Science
1. Does there seem to be a main character or protagonist to the story? If so, who is it and how are they the center of the story? If not, are there any important or central characters to the story at all? What role do they play?
The main characters in this story are the residents of the Porter Ranch Neighborhood near LA, specifically David Balen, John Mikaili, and many others who were interviewed. Furthermore, the Los Angeles Department of Public Health (specifically those named in the article), Erin Brockovich, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are all central characters as well because they are all involved in the gas leak controversy. Brockovich and Kennedy are both environmental health advocates who were lending a hand to the Porter Ranch community, encouraging the residents to file a lawsuit against the LA Department of Public Health.
2. Where do the specific events in the story take place? Is there a specific setting? Describe the settings for the story and how it influences the plot and characters.
The setting in the story is mainly in Los Angeles, but there are also references to Flint, Michigan, Hinkley, California, and Charleston, West Virginia because these are all places that have experienced similar disasters in the past. The suburban setting of Porter Ranch, Los Angeles has a major influence on the story because it is a fairly wealthy and well-known area of the country. Families and individuals move to neighborhoods like this one in order to feel secure and confident that disasters like this won't happen.
3. Is there any kind of disagreement or debate happening in the story? If so, who is participating, why are people debating and what seems to be at stake for the different characters in the story?
There is absolutely a disagreement in the story. In short, the Health Department deemed the air in Porter Ranch safe for the residents, even though it may "cause vomiting, nose-bleeds, and other minor symptoms, there will be no long-term health effects. The citizens do not believe what the Department is telling them, and are taking action against the city. Obviously the city of Los Angeles has a lot at stake (money, reputation, multiple civil suits, federal regulations, etc) but the citizens are convinced that their health and well-being is at stake, which is much more important. As of now, the leak continues to spew methane (among other chemicals) into the air, and will not be plugged until late February.
Sunday, January 24, 2016
Course Projects
1. What are you most confused/nervous about in regards to the four major projects?
For the four projects, the genre that I am most nervous about is the Quick Reference Guide. At first glance it seemed like the one that would give me the least grief, but when I read through everything again I realized that it is the only genre that I have not been previously exposed to or have any experience with. I already have trouble making my essays concise, so the idea that I have to basically fit everything onto one sheet of paper is kind of terrifying.
That being said, once I decide what to do for the four projects, I'll most likely be able to pair the QRG with the topic that I feel is most appropriate.
2. What are you most interested in or excited about in regards to the four major projects?
The project that I am most excited about is probably the Public Argument, because I love to argue/debate and I like to think that I'm pretty good at it. I'm going to have trouble deciding what form to do this project in, because I want to do my argument justice.
3. Based on your understanding of the major projects, what are the elements of this course that you have to plan ahead for? How will the coursework described in the four project assignments challenge your time management skills this semester?
I will plan ahead for the Rhetorical Investigation for sure. I should probably begin dealing with my social anxiety and reaching out to professionals in my field soon in order to make sure I have everything scheduled and set up so that I am not rushed when the time comes to interview people. I tend to get really invested in just one thing at a time, so if that happens with some sort of work that is not in this class then I'll have a serious time crunch.
4. How has your past English coursework in high school or in college prepared you for the challenges of this course? What skills will you bring into the course with you?
My high school had a very rigorous curriculum, and students got to design their own schedules, similar to college, so I am used to dealing with a stressful workload. We used a lot of technology at my high school, so I have experience making podcasts and videos. If any of my previous courses helped prepare me for this one I think it would be Speech and Debate. I was involved in many Lincoln-Douglas style debates where students really had to cover all their bases and do extensive research. My high school had many extracurricular competitions and events utilizing all forms of media, one that I had been involved in was the Film Fest. This improved my filming and editing skills as well.
5. Do you have any questions about the four major projects that haven't been answered by the assignment sheets? What do you still want to know?
I don't have any questions yet... It really seems like I can take anything that I am interested in researching and apply it to all of the projects and genres. I'm just going to have trouble narrowing down my topics!
After reading the posts of my peers, I feel much more relaxed about the major projects in general. I realize that while everyone is probably struggling with different aspects, we are all struggling in the same boat. I enjoyed seeing how everyone else's classes have (or haven't) prepared them for this one, I think it is important to know that about one another so we can all work together and help each other out with different problems!
For the four projects, the genre that I am most nervous about is the Quick Reference Guide. At first glance it seemed like the one that would give me the least grief, but when I read through everything again I realized that it is the only genre that I have not been previously exposed to or have any experience with. I already have trouble making my essays concise, so the idea that I have to basically fit everything onto one sheet of paper is kind of terrifying.
That being said, once I decide what to do for the four projects, I'll most likely be able to pair the QRG with the topic that I feel is most appropriate.
2. What are you most interested in or excited about in regards to the four major projects?
The project that I am most excited about is probably the Public Argument, because I love to argue/debate and I like to think that I'm pretty good at it. I'm going to have trouble deciding what form to do this project in, because I want to do my argument justice.
3. Based on your understanding of the major projects, what are the elements of this course that you have to plan ahead for? How will the coursework described in the four project assignments challenge your time management skills this semester?
I will plan ahead for the Rhetorical Investigation for sure. I should probably begin dealing with my social anxiety and reaching out to professionals in my field soon in order to make sure I have everything scheduled and set up so that I am not rushed when the time comes to interview people. I tend to get really invested in just one thing at a time, so if that happens with some sort of work that is not in this class then I'll have a serious time crunch.
4. How has your past English coursework in high school or in college prepared you for the challenges of this course? What skills will you bring into the course with you?
My high school had a very rigorous curriculum, and students got to design their own schedules, similar to college, so I am used to dealing with a stressful workload. We used a lot of technology at my high school, so I have experience making podcasts and videos. If any of my previous courses helped prepare me for this one I think it would be Speech and Debate. I was involved in many Lincoln-Douglas style debates where students really had to cover all their bases and do extensive research. My high school had many extracurricular competitions and events utilizing all forms of media, one that I had been involved in was the Film Fest. This improved my filming and editing skills as well.
The Lovett School, "LovettLogoBlue", 04/22/2008 via lovett.org, Attribution-NonCommercial
5. Do you have any questions about the four major projects that haven't been answered by the assignment sheets? What do you still want to know?
I don't have any questions yet... It really seems like I can take anything that I am interested in researching and apply it to all of the projects and genres. I'm just going to have trouble narrowing down my topics!
After reading the posts of my peers, I feel much more relaxed about the major projects in general. I realize that while everyone is probably struggling with different aspects, we are all struggling in the same boat. I enjoyed seeing how everyone else's classes have (or haven't) prepared them for this one, I think it is important to know that about one another so we can all work together and help each other out with different problems!
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Investigating Genres: Video Essays
1. What purpose does this genre usually serve?
The "Video Essay" genre allows viewers to receive the same information as a traditional essay, while also providing visual reinforcement. These videos help prove whatever point the composer is trying to make by using a combination of still images, text, and monologue to add emotion, provide examples, or even to cater to parts of their audience who may be more visual learners.
2. Where, how, or in what context do readers usually find this genre?
Video essays can be found in a number of places on the internet such as Youtube, Vimeo, Netflix, etc. Most video essays that are on tapes, dvds, or other physical recording devices can often be found online as well. Viewers of these essays may find them by using a search engine, or they may happen upon them while doing other research or web-surfing. The most popular place for video essays right now is Youtube.
3. Who is the typical audience for this genre?
The genre is probably geared towards youths and young adults, but anyone can enjoy a video essay if they are interested in the topic. A lot of Millennials, Gen Ys, and Gen Xs frequent sites like Youtube in order to watch videos, although not all of the videos are necessarily "Video Essays" many of them do fit the bill.
4. What are some of the key features or characteristics that are unique to this genre, distinguishing it from other texts?
The main feature that distinguishes this genre from others is the visual effect. The viewer can SEE the author, or SEE examples or pictures or video clips that the author utilizes to aid what he/she is saying. In a time where media and technology are advancing so rapidly, a contemporary genre like this one is bound to skyrocket in regards to popularity.
5. Based on your answers to the questions above, come up with a definition in your own words for this genre.
Video Essays are videos that use countless combinations of still imagery, text, video clips, monologue, etc. in conjunction with audio in order to entertain and/or educate the audience on a particular topic.
From reading the posts of my classmates, I gained much better insight into the QRG and Podcast genres. For the Quick Reference Guide, I definitely needed some clarification as to the purpose, and what information needs to be prioritized. I enjoyed reading about the Podcast genre because I have enjoyed many podcasts throughout the years and am excited to make my own! I think that they are a great way to spark discussion, express interest in a particular topic, or just ramble/argue about something you are passionate about.
The "Video Essay" genre allows viewers to receive the same information as a traditional essay, while also providing visual reinforcement. These videos help prove whatever point the composer is trying to make by using a combination of still images, text, and monologue to add emotion, provide examples, or even to cater to parts of their audience who may be more visual learners.
2. Where, how, or in what context do readers usually find this genre?
Video essays can be found in a number of places on the internet such as Youtube, Vimeo, Netflix, etc. Most video essays that are on tapes, dvds, or other physical recording devices can often be found online as well. Viewers of these essays may find them by using a search engine, or they may happen upon them while doing other research or web-surfing. The most popular place for video essays right now is Youtube.
3. Who is the typical audience for this genre?
The genre is probably geared towards youths and young adults, but anyone can enjoy a video essay if they are interested in the topic. A lot of Millennials, Gen Ys, and Gen Xs frequent sites like Youtube in order to watch videos, although not all of the videos are necessarily "Video Essays" many of them do fit the bill.
4. What are some of the key features or characteristics that are unique to this genre, distinguishing it from other texts?
The main feature that distinguishes this genre from others is the visual effect. The viewer can SEE the author, or SEE examples or pictures or video clips that the author utilizes to aid what he/she is saying. In a time where media and technology are advancing so rapidly, a contemporary genre like this one is bound to skyrocket in regards to popularity.
5. Based on your answers to the questions above, come up with a definition in your own words for this genre.
Video Essays are videos that use countless combinations of still imagery, text, video clips, monologue, etc. in conjunction with audio in order to entertain and/or educate the audience on a particular topic.
From reading the posts of my classmates, I gained much better insight into the QRG and Podcast genres. For the Quick Reference Guide, I definitely needed some clarification as to the purpose, and what information needs to be prioritized. I enjoyed reading about the Podcast genre because I have enjoyed many podcasts throughout the years and am excited to make my own! I think that they are a great way to spark discussion, express interest in a particular topic, or just ramble/argue about something you are passionate about.
My Writing Process
Brain POP, "The Writing Process", 05/17/2010 via flickr, Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDervis-2.0Generic
1. What type of writer do you consider yourself to be?
I would like to say that I am just a 'Heavy Planner', but if I'm being completely honest I am a mix between a 'Heavy Planner' and a "Procrastinator'. I'm not as extreme of a procrastinator as is described in the Student's Guide to Writing, because I will start my planning and outlining process well before a paper is due, but I tend to put off the actual writing until a couple days before. In my defense, I make very detailed outlines! This habit doesn't apply to 100% of my writing, I'll actually spend a lot of time on something if I am passionate about it or loved learning about it.
2. Does your writing process include several of the above approaches? Which ones?
I definitely approach writing as a heavy planner, but that can turn into 'procrastinator' pretty quick if I have little interest in what I'm writing. I could never stand writing literary analyses in high school, or my first couple years of college, though I did get really good at it. The essays I enjoyed writing the most were always controversial, or strongly opinionated. I would always heavily plan those.
3. Does your writing process seem to be successful? Strengths and weaknesses?
I feel like my writing process really works for me. My high school had a rigorous curriculum, so I became very good at writing a 2-3 page essay in an hour or so with no outline, but now that I have the opportunity to write about interesting things that I actually care about, I've adopted the more serious 'Heavy Planner' approach with my outlines and entire process. My outlines are definitely my biggest strengths, but my biggest weakness is writing too much (when I'm passionate about it). I'll make an outline for an essay that is supposed to be 5 pages, but that will be the length of my outline. I think I just try to cover all my bases a little too much that it turns into rambling.
4. Do you think it would be beneficial to try a new approach? Why or why not?
Maybe, but I'm probably not going to. I rarely edit my own papers, at least not the first draft, because my changes tend to be the things that get marked off. When I am actually writing the papers, using my outline, I imagine it as though I'm giving a speech almost. Most of my thoughts flow into the word document in a meaningful order and I tend to let them stay that way.
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