Literacy Dig

#1
When you first walk into my apartment there is a poster that says "avoid staying home". When i first found the ad in a magazine, my roommate and i thought it was funny and it had a positive message we agreed with. She moved to Alaska and i moved to plattsburgh and i ended up with it. I probably wouldn't have hung it up again but last memorial day she passed away, and the ad is one of several reminders i have of her around my apartment. I think this says i am a sentimental person and that i miss my friend.

#2
On my fridge i have a couple drawings from my boyfriend. One in particular was for our one year anniversary and says "10 reasons why i love nicki". Its cute and sappy and i guess it says im sappy and in love.

#3
Above my kitchen sink i have a copy of the Irish saying "May the wind always be at your back etc". I picked it up at a garage sale a couple of years ago. My family is from Ireland, my grandparents moved here in the 1950's and im proud of my heritage.

#4
In my bedroom i have a poster that says "Breathe" over a picture of a exotic beach. My boyfriends mother gave it to us when we moved up here because we both tend to get stressed over the little things.

#5
In my bathroom, i have attached an "inspirational quote" for my boyfriend who doesnt always wake up on the bright side of the bed. This shows that i care about the people around me and their mental well being.

Helping Families Support Readers

This article touches on the importance of reading and the significance that reading presents a student. The author states, "Reading supports writing development and writing supports reading development." Being an English Literature concentration, I believe that reading is the foundation and key to all other possibilities. Ultimately effective reading contributes to effective writing and so on. There are many children who find joy in reading, however families finances and resources are low. This article gives wonderful example of resources and websites that may help accommodate and bring magazines, educational and interesting books for students. For example, share the NCTE description of What Can Family Literacy Look Like to provide families with a list of short, everyday activities that can support readers and writers.
I really like this article because it reassured me that there are people who just don't criticize the negative, but wants change and like students to progress and succeed throughout their academics.

Making Wikis Work For Scholars

The article, "Making Wikis Work For Scholars" in the April, 28 issue of Inside Higher Ed describes how professors use Wikipedia and even incorporate it into their classes. It's common for college professors to contribute articles on Wikipedia. Some feel that this is what makes Wikipedia reliable. The article states "A quick glance at the syllabus for Breno de Medeiros’s Advanced Topics in Cryptography and Network Security course at Florida State University, to take one example, reveals reading assignments — in addition to the usual textbook chapters and published papers — that direct students to pages on Wikipedia." Some teachers even assign students to write their own Wikipedia page.
The article claims "Even if they won’t admit it, students are using Wikipedia to kick off their research and fill the gaps in their class notes ..." The article also points out the legitimacy issues that come up when it comes to Wikipedia articles. Since they're open to anybody, people can write articles without the proper education of the topic. After being published, the articles are not subject to any review by authority.
While I agree that the articles on Wikipedia could be erroneous, from my personal experiences with it, it's been helpful. When I'm learning about something I have little to no prior knowledge on, Wikipedia provides a good foundation for learning about it. It lets me know what the main significance of the topic is before I read in-depth articles about it. I can understand why teachers wouldn't allow students to reference it since it's not scholarly, but I rarely find inaccuracies on it and it serves as a helpful tool for me.

Literacy Dig

Object 1-Mail (kitchen table)
I read mail every day. While I hope for a greeting card or letter, bills are generally the primary literature found here. I am very scheduled, and I like to send out bill payments immediately. I don't want to come home from class some day and find a lack of electricity.

Object 2-News and Crossword puzzle (newspaper)
I pick up a copy of the newspaper in the Learning Center every week day. A day would not be a day without a crossword puzzle. I also like to follow the news about the race for the White House, so I read the news to see how my gal is doing in the polls. I guess this says that I am a routine person.

Object 3-V8 Splash juice (fridge)
I was disappointed today to find high fructose corn syrup is an ingredient in this juice. I was duped . . . I assumed it was healthy! I guess that I will be switching to the ever-expensive V8 Fusion juice. What a tasty loss. I guess this says that I am becoming more conscious of what I eat.

Object 4-Weather (television)
I like to know the weather for the week. I hate when it rains. Blah blah, necessary, blah blah draught . . . whatever . . . my hair curls at the thought of moisture, and that is not a good thing. I guess that is my superficial side.

Object 5-Laundry tags (clothing)
Dry clean only labels are there for a reason! Do not learn this the hard way. Clothes are too expensive to gamble. Will it survive the washing machine? Can I get away with washing it? No. No you can't. Put that thought out of your mind immediately. I think this shows that I am frugle, and I try to cut corners.

Bedtime Stories now Available on Children's Ipods

According to Michele Cobb, "I hear lots of people talking, saying that when they put their kids to bed, they put them down with an audio book". This article entitled, "Bedtime Stories now Available on Children's Ipods", make audio bedtime stories available for children from the age of two, to listen to bedtime. I am a little hesitant tho this idea only because, bedtimes stories are a parents time to spend with their child before bed. If audio bed stories are available for children it takes away from a mother or a father's bond with that child. I attest that it is not the same to put a child to bed with the audio story, opposed to embracing them in your arms, while reading them peacefully to sleep. However, a critic who believes that reading is a literary connection with words, and sells these book at Fisher Price and other children stores to children beginning at the 2. The article suggests that books will be helpful because at the age of three, because that is the usual time that parents top reading to their children.
On the other hand, these book will be exceptional to those children who do have the opportunity to have parents around to read to them. Many parents work several jobs to maintain the family, such as single parent homes, therefore having no bonding time with their child. I believe this resource can be very helpful and positive, but my concern is with those parents who buy the audio story books, abusing the privilege. I am concern with the child's development and development with their family as well. The audio book seems to put the child in isolation away from the world and family!

Andrew's Literacy Dig

Object #1 Box of Q-tips
I leave it on my cluttered desk with lots of other random items. The reason why I use Q-tips is because I get an especially large amount of wax build up in my ears. (I hope I don't get made fun of in class for this) On the box, it suggests certain uses for them in both writing and pictures. Certain uses are for applying ointments, cleaning a keyboard, and applying something to a baby.

Object #2 Guitar Tuner
I leave it on the top of my filing cabinet next to my guitar. You need to read the labels under each button to know how to turn it on, choose between tuning a guitar or bass, and decide to make a note flatter. I still rely on my tuner, because I never picked up the ability to tune a guitar by ear.

Object #3 My G-Shock watch
I also leave it on top of my filing cabinet because I'm always putting it on when I go out and taking it off when I come in. I've had this watch since I was in the 7th grade and I'm still not fully knowledgeable about all of it's uses. Above the time, the day of the week and the date are abbreviated. There's also a little p next to the time when it's P.M.

Object #4 My ipod
I leave it on my desk so I can easily access it because I listen to it everyday. When I listen to music, I constantly jump around from different bands so I need to read each artist and song rather than if I put on one album and listened to it the whole way through. Often times, I look up the lyrics to a song on the internet. When I want to make sure I really grasp the lyrics, I'll look up words I'm unfamiliar with on dictionary.com. One of my favorite bands, Meg and Dia use a lot of obscure words in their songs. Another one of my favorite bands, Anti-Flag make references to political entities that I'm unfamiliar with that I'll sometimes research.

Object #5 A Plattsburgh State mug
As I mentioned before I keep a lot of random things on my desk because I lack places to put them. Since I was in Plattsburgh on my birthday, my mother ordered me a birthday package from the college store. In addition to the mug I got candy, balloons, and a t-shirt with "Burghy" on it. The mug is grey with red letters. It mentions "A Proud Past" and "A Strong Future"

Lindsay's Literacy Dig (creative title, I know)

I guess I'll be somewhat of a copycat and follow the format I've seen everyone in the class use.

Object #1
A unique picture frame that is in the shape of a wheel and spins. There are about 9 slots for a small photo, in which you are supposed to put a picture of one of your friends. When you spin the wheel, there is a circle that remains still in the center which lists adjectives (smart, hero,crazy,unique, cute, sexy, sweet, gorgeous, and shy.) This, I thought, was a cute way of keeping a photo of a friend in sight (although I must admit, there are 3 strangers in the picture frame due to my laziness in printing out some pictures of my friends. Therefore I still am left with the attractive models posing in the small black and white photos.)

Object # 2

Third Eye Blind poster/signed ticket/backstage pass

These all are very valuable objects (not so much monetary value, but moreso sentimental value.) They are by far my favorite band, and I've seen them 7 times live and met them. Seeing the signed ticket, backstage pass, and poster reminds me of how much I love them and their awesome songs/lyrics.

Object # 3

Hanging on my dorm room door handle (which is actually not a functioning door handle, rather you open and close the door using a metal latch above the handle...because that makes a whole lot of sense) is a listing of all the tv channels. Each network is listed and the channel number is given for each one. This is a handy thing to have, seeing as how even after my second year here at Plattsburgh, I have only memorized maybe 3 channels.

Object # 4

Svedka (All natural, as the bottle claims) Raspberry flavored vodka. I guess it gets the job done, but ultimately I think it should've stayed where it was made...in Sweden. This stuff is cheap but it burns.

Object # 5

Ouija Board. It's just for fun....

Bedtime Stories for Kids on Ipods

The article titled, Bedtime stories now available on children's iPods, by Melissa Rayworth talks about the new way of listening to audiobooks--on mp3 players. It claims that it is a good way to have kids hearing bedtime stories, as many kids do have mp3 players such as ipods. It also says that by having children listen to these audiobooks via ipod, they will become more interested and inspired to read the in print versions of such bed time stories. I do not know if I necessarily buy into that claim. I would actually tend to believe that kids, especially this up and coming generation, are so fixed on technology that by putting bedtime stories on an ipod, they will forget and see no need to read the physical books in print. Also, bedtime stories are often times a great time for parents to bond with their children, and hearing a familiar voice reading them a last adventure before sleep is something an audiobook cannot provide. I think these audiobooks are making it easier for parents to be lazy in making time out to bond with their children and share reading time with them at young ages.

The article does point out that this new form of story telling is beneficial in that the kids may hear some of their celebrity idols narrating these stories, therefore making it all the more interesting. Listening to stories is also a good outlet for using one's imagination, therefore making this audiobook on ipod idea appealing.

Jordan Digs Literacy

Object #1 (Found in Bedroom)

A photo album filled with all of the concert tickets that I have been able to save from over the years. This album’s contents symbolize my love of music and the enjoyment I get from seeing it performed live. Countless memories of bands and friends flood my imagination when I look through and read from it.

Object #2 (Found in the Kitchen, on the Refrigerator)

On the freezer door of my refrigerator hangs a Healthy Choice chart explaining what makes up the average amount of food from each food group that a person should have on an average day. Over the years, I have been growing more and more obsessive about my health and this chart helps to inform me of how I can do that easier.

Object #3 (Found in Bedroom, on the Desk)

I found my ipod plugged into my computer and ready to go. Without my literacy skills, I would never be able to read from the screen and would likewise be unable to ever listen to what I want. My ipod has a lot of music that I don’t even own myself anymore, so it really means a lot to me.

Object #4 (Found in Bedroom, on the Desk)

Here is where I do most of my writing because it is the location of my computer. Without my computer and the programs on it, I would never be able to accomplish anything at my own pace and thus, my grades would suffer tremendously. Without my literacy skills, I would be at a loss as to how to command such a useful piece of technology.

Object #5 (Found in the Car)

Here is where I find one of the most useful tools I use. My cell phone is how I keep in contact with those that I love and also serves as my clock so that I am never late. Without the skills I have acquired, I would never know how to call who I would like to, nor would I ever be able to send text messages at any opportune chances.

Literacy Dig!

Object #1: Found in my kitchen.
Nutrients label of orange juice.
Significance: Many people are concerned about what nutrients that are taking in. With this handy information label we are able to see through the use of language and percentages how this drink will affect our bodies.

Object #2: Found in my bedroom.
Survivor, Chuck Palahniuk.
Significance: This is an excellent book that through the use of language allows me to develop metal pictures about the situations being described. Through reading this book I am also being introduced to a whole different style of writing.

Object #3: Found in my bedroom.
Canon Rebel 35mm camera.
Significance: I have always enjoyed photography and through the use of taking pictures, I am able to convey feeling and emotion from just looking back on any pictures. Anyone can also take a picture of anything, for example a piece of drift wood, and develop a story from it.

Object #4: Found in my car.
Ipod Nano.
Significance: I first need to start off by reading each label for the artist and song that I want to listen to. Then, while I am listening to music, I am able to utilize my memorization skills to sing along with any artist of my choice.

Object #5: Found in my bedroom.
Computer keyboard.
Significance: This object is actually one of the most important item in my life. It contains the necessary alphabet letters and numbers for me to be able to create a piece of my own writing.

Steve Chin's Literacy Dig

1) Purdue baked chicken breasts

Overall Significance: Not only do I love to eat chicken all the time, but chicken is also a low fat food fat, very filling and loaded with protein. Whenever I have a chance I am usually at the gym lifting. And most people who work out know that building lean muscle means that you need to take in a lot of protein to help rebuild the muscle. So not only am I getting a great tasting snack but I am also helping my body repair itself.

2) Syllabuses

Overall Significance: These are perhaps the most helpful tool that I have for all of my classes. Not only do I have a really tough time remembering when assignments are due, but I also tend to not write down important dates. Syllabuses also remind me when particular assignments are due. If it wasn’t for them, I probably would have missed more than half of my assignments.

3) Men’s Speed Stick – Fresh scent

Overall Significance: No one likes a smelly person. I have found this and the Adidas sport to be the best deodorants. Not only do they actually work, but I have found them to actually work for the entire day unlike many of the others.

4) Tylenol: Extra strength

Overall Significance: Everyone gets those occasional migraines or headaches, and the best cure for them is Tylenol. It works fast and is relatively cheap. Tylenol also does wonders for hangovers.

5) Yahoo! - Fantasy Baseball Team

Overall Significance: I am a total geek when it comes to fantasy baseball. Not only do I love the sport of baseball, but I love to draft my team every year and compete with my friends and in some leagues people who live across the country. Whenever I get the chance I am checking my team, reading news and notes and potential rookies who I think can make an impact on my team. Plus the winner of one league I am in gets 300 dollars.

PS. I know I am posting this under Christan's blog account but I can't post anything on mine....

Literacy Dig

As soon as we recieved this assignment, I knew exactly what to write about. I really enjoy reading and wouldn't know what to do if my sight ever left me, but sometimes in my house I couldn't see the house work notes my mom leaves my sisters and I. Every morning there is always a new note saying "pick up the kitchen, unload the dishwasher." Or there is a note asking when and where we will all be. I understand she is just being a mom and I'm sure I will aquire her habit of writing notes when I become a mother, but it's very frusterating to read the notes and still hear her ask. The simple solution though is to just do what she asks. I rarely receive little notes saying "clean your room, make your bed." Now I get notes like "pick up milk please, here's money for gas." :) That's always a plus!
Other items in my house that I realize I need to be able to read is labels of food. Even though I'm not allergic to any types of food, I still like to read how many calories or carbs something has in it. My favorite past time or hobby is baking. So I read how to make my cakes and cookies all the time. Without reading where would my family be? Without dessert! That's not good.
Finally, I read signs on the road to school, work, and when I travel. In the summer time I take mini vacations to Burlington, Vermont, Glens Falls, and Albany. I've memorized how to get to each location, but I find myself reading gas signs. These days gas prices are the least bit exciting to read and almost floor your mind. If anything, reading these signs are depressing!

RateMyProfessor.com

Before reading this article in the NCTE imbox, I already had formed my own opinions on what I thought of the site ratemyprofessor.com. I would be lying if I didn't admit that everytime I register for a new class each semester, that I didn't check out the available professors for each course and choose which one I take it with depending on the type of feedback ratemyprofessor gave. In the article, it discussed a correlation that was pretty consistant between ratemyprofessor.com's feedback, and a student evaluation called IDEA's feedback. It was found that, "Student rankings on the ease of courses were consistent in both systems and correlated with grades.
Professors’ rankings for “clarity” and “helpfulness” on RateMyProfessors.com correlated with overall rankings for course excellence on IDEA.
The similarities were such that, the journal article says, they offer “preliminary support for the validity of the evaluations on RateMyProfessors.com.”"

This didn't seem to come as a surprise to me-- mainly because I have yet to take a course with a professor in which ratemyprofessor.com wsa off the charts and dead wrong in it's evaluation of the teacher. I have found them to be quite fair reviews. Although it is true that the way a teacher looks is taken into account, there are other reviews that are centered around the quality of the professor's instruction style as well. Some might think that it's only the two extreme types of students who give reviews-- those who are either very enthusiastic and did well in the course, or those who received bad grades and hated the course. I, however, think that there are those who are in the middle, and willing to admit to both a professor's strenghths and weaknesses in the style of teaching. Ratemyprofessor.com, in my opinion, is a fairly accurate and very useful tool for students to use and take advantage of on the internet.

Literacy Dig

Object #1: (Found in my dorm room)
Post Card with an Eiffel Tower, "Paris".
Significance: This post card is posted on my wall along side other European countries which i traveled to, during my study abroad experience. This postcard symbolizes my wonderful trip to Paris, but also the wonderful people i met on my journey. The vibrant colors brings me back to the very hour, second and minute in January I was celebrating new years in Paris.

Object #2: (Found in my dorm room)
Navy Shirt
Significance: This navy blue "Navy" t-shirt hangs on my wall with a Doggy Tag. This shirt is very important to me, ,symbolizing my best friend enlisted in the Navy. Every place my best friends goes during his 5 year listing, he bring me back a souvenir, and this t-shirt was one of them.. This t-shirt is a daily reminder of the war, but also the value of our friendship.

Object #3: My bathroom
The Stall Street Journal
Significance: This is a silly newsletter that is posted in every bathroom on campus, brought to you by hall counsel. This newsletter is specifically posted behind each bathroom stall door, so that bathroom uses can keep informed throughout the week on weather, campus events and little silly riddles.. anytime I use the bathroom I laugh, because its comical..

Object #4: My dorm room
Young Person's Prayer
Significance: I have a bright pink paper posted above my bed on my wall. This paper was given to the class last year, by Father McGuiness, my past Honors Seminar Professor. This prayer is my daily reminder about the many blessings and gifts of life as well as gifts that are found in people whom i am surrounded by. I daily read a line and recite this when i forget to pray. This paper has religious significance to me.

Object #5: My room
Certificate of Recognition
Significance: I have been tutoring in the EOP Office for the past three years, assisting students with English Literature. This certificate was given by the department head. Although I have received many awards, this one stand tall in my room. I was the first non-eop student to work for the office since 2005. Since then many eop and non-eop students have worked as tutors. This certificate not only shows appreciating, but also shows my effort and dedication to the EOP family.

Caitlin's Literacy Dig

Item 1: Ipod

It is necessary to read the songs on my ipod so I can decide which song I want to listen to.

Item 2: Nivea Body Lotion

There are instructions on the bottle on how to use the cream and what areas of the body should specifically be moisterized.

Item 3: Claritin

If someone was prescribed Claritin it would be necessary to know what dosage to take. The bottle that I have prescribes one pill once a day.

Item 4: Calender

I seldom look at my calender. However, sometimes I forget what day of the week and my calender is helpful.

Item 5: Dorm Room Checklist

There is set of instructions that I was given that I have to follow when I leave at the end of this semester. It is necessary to be able to read these directions in order to not be accused of leaving my room disorderly.

Pat's Literacy Dig

Object 1 – Fortune Cookie Slip reading, “The Job is well done.” (Taped to wall)

Significance: In the lives of most people this slip has little or no significance, but to me it is a reminder of a good feeling when you do a good job, both in life and in school. Fortune cookies are always a spot of humor for me, so seeing it everyday makes me a little happier.

Object 2 – Shaving cream can reading, “Leave skin wet. Put gel on fingertips. Gently rub over skin to lather and shave.

Significance: I’m not very good at shaving, and many times I forget to leave skin wet. I usually use an electric razor so that there is virtually no chance for me to cut myself. Maybe if I paid attention I could use a “Big Boy” razor.

Object 3 – Bottle of Ibuprofen reading, “Temporary relieves minor aches and pains due to:”

Significance: If I am ailing from some sort of pain, I like to look at this list to see if perhaps I could be relieved of the pain. Often times, a thinking headache isn’t listed on the bottle, but the medicine seems to work anyway.

Object 4 – Post it note reading, “For hot water lift top, add water, press button, pour using grey lever.” (On wall)

Significance: I have a little water heater, which I use to make oatmeal, soup, and hot beverages. The note is a reminder more for my roommate, who seems to forget how to use the simple device. It really is simple.

Object 5 – Door hanger thing (similar to do not disturb) that has our television line-up on it. It reads, “These and other services brought to you by: College Auxiliary Services.”

Significance: Often it’s hard to remember all of the channel numbers on tv here. I consult this to figure out what channel to turn to watch the NBA playoffs or that new show on “The Food Network.” The little guide is convenient to find what I’m looking for.

Laice’s Literacy Dig

Starting at the Front Door…
Object # 1: Post It Note Reading “Don’t forget to turn off the iron, Love Mom”
Overall Significance: This is a note from my mom reminding me to make sure that the iron is off before I leave the house each morning. This note sits on the front door on a daily basis, yet, I still remember to shut the iron off when I use it, however, my mom still refuses to remove the note.

Next is in the Living Room..
Object # 2: My Mom’s Hand Lotion that sits under the coffee table
Overall Significance: This lotion is under my coffee table at all times because my mom is constantly moisturizing her skin. I frequently pick it up to use it, but I also read what kind it is because it changes from time to time. Today when I used it was “Johnson’s soft lotion, 24 HOUR MOISTURIZER”. I laughed when I saw this. I highly doubt that it lasts 24 hours, but I used it anyway.

Next is in the Kitchen…
Object # 3: A Yankee Candle
Overall Significance: Candles are burning in my house more often than not, so the scents change. Today, the scent was called “Honeydew Melon”. I always look to see what type of candle is burning, by picking it up and smelling it and reading the outside label. I also read the bottom labels to see the approximate burn time because it is usually different for different size candles and even different brands.

Next is in The Office…
Object # 4: My Computer!
Overall Significance: I use my computer every day, I’m addicted. I go on myspace, facebook, and all of those fun sites. (Sorry, I’m a college student!) I occasionally use AIM, but seemingly, facebook and myspace have taken that over, or I’m just getting too old. I also use my computer for school work. I read articles, E-mails, and so on.

Next is in my Bedroom…
Object # 5: “In Loving Memory Card”
Overall Significance: On my mirror sits a wallet size “In Loving Memory Card” that has my grandmother’s name on it, along with a prayer. I got this card about ten years ago when she died. It has hung on my mirror ever since. This little card reminds me of my grandmother every day. Every time I look at it as I’m getting ready, it puts a smile on my face.

Stories on iPods

The article I read was called “Bedtime Stories Now Available on Children’s IPods”, by Melissa Rayworth. This article stated that Don Katz has a vision for delivering bedtime stories on iPods. About one third of children from age’s six to ten use iPods or other digital audio players on a regular basis. In March, AudibleKids.com was launched for children in order for them to download books onto their audio players. Katz says that “Listening is a powerful method to retain the meaning of the story and to turn people on to the concept of well-chosen words.” The American Library Association recommends reading to children every day, especially to those who are not yet in school. This group says that “The group says it's not just hearing the story that's important — it's connecting the words to the letters on a page, and eventually learning to read them.”
I think this is a good idea, however, I hope that it doesn’t interfere with children learning to read. Children could become too dependent on their digital audio players. But, Audio books could have potential to help young readers because they are listening to words that are realistically beyond their reading level in many cases. Not having just music on an iPod is neat to me, I really like the idea of having stories as well. At least parents know that children are learning something while listening to their iPods which could be a very good thing.

Dominique Marable Literacy Dig

In Book bag...
Object #1: Agenda

• I know what is due each week in all of classes and what meeting I have and at what time. I have it memorized, but if I do not look at it more then three times a day. I get worried like something has changed, but it does not and I know it has not, but the satisfaction I get from looking to check it anyway is indescribable but so worth it.

On my Wall...

Object #2: Work Schedule

• I only work Wednesdays every week. I get paid every other Thursday. The schedule is posted on my wall as a reminder. Why do I need to be reminded that I work every Wednesday because the schedule does not change.

In the Bathroom Stalls...

Object #3: Bank Hall Beast Periodical

• Banks Hall Beast Periodical is the dorms newsletter posted in the bathroom stalls to let residents know what events are going on through campus, Resident Assistant programs, and Hall Council Program strictly for Banks Hall residents. It also provides a section for residents, roommates, and apartments of the week to get to know your neighbors. The weather for the week is also posted. This periodical keeps me informed of whats going on and allows be to become more familiar with people that live around me.

Anywhere I Go...

Object #4: Cell Phone

• I am constantly text messaging and although I am an English Education major I still speak in text talk because its easier, faster and I can say more in one message, as oppose to multiple by writing each word out.

On my phone, computer and anything with Internet Access...

Object #5: America Online's Instant Messenger (AIM)

• Same as text messaging, text speak language that I use was first learned on (AIM) hot to speak and use text language. If I am not text I am definitely on (AIM) talking to people constantly if we are not text and this is because its free...how awesome, what more could you want, especially if you can not talk to the person on the phone.

Kristen's Literacy Dig

Object #1: My Mets calender.
Overall Significance: Of course, every Mets game is written down on it as well as all my appointments and upcoming events. This calender is less for school and more for the other aspects of my life. Everytime I look at it I feel organized and on track even when I may not be. It also shows me that I have other things going on than just papers and exams.

Object #2: Letters to and from my Grandpa.
Overall Significance: Recently, my grandpa was diagnosed with luekemia. With this, he lost most of his hearing. We no longer can use the phone to stay in touch like we used to. Now, I use letters to talk to him and let him know that I am thinking of him. He has always been a big part of my life and loves to stay up to date on what is going on with me.

Object #3: Children's Books
Overall Significance: I know the assignment said to stay away from books but I couldn't resist. When people walk into my room and see children's books sprawled across my desk they have the most quizical look on their face. They are most likely thinking I either have a child or am a slow reader. I am extremely enthusiastic about teaching education and with all the childhood education classes I am in, it's impossible to hide all these books.

Object#4: Poem on my wall
Overall Significance: I have the poem "Desiderata" by Max Ehrmann on my wall. This poem sums up how I try to live my life. The long poem goes around the border of my wall and I see it everyday when I am getting ready. I try to read it and bring his words into my life somehow. Read it, it's a good one.

Oject #5: DVD cases
Overall Significance: I am a movie fanatic. My aspiration is to watch as many movies as I can, good or bad. My dvd's range from Finding Nemo to Garden State to Casablanca. The movies I own each reflect a different part of my personality. All my dvd's could be seen as a way to avoid reading but I think film can be just as educational as literature.

Christian's Literacy Dig...

Things on my side of the dorm room

Object #1: The “To-do” list

Overall Significance: I can see the “To-do” list that I taped directly over the T.V. screen this morning as I awoke. The list has all my due dates and assignments I need to finish for today’s agenda. I taped it over the TV screen so I don’t succumb to temptation and waste valuable time watching television when my time is needed elsewhere.


Object #2: My Laptop

Overall Significance: My Dell laptop is very important to me. My laptop is on from the time I awake until the time I fall asleep. I use this laptop for everything, getting in touch with loved ones back home, reading school e-mails, checking the weather, listen to music, checking my face book messages, writing papers late at night, and holds pictures of all my loved ones back home that keep me going.


Object #3: Clorox Bleach and Laundry Detergent

Overall Significance: It may seem obvious but seeing these two items next to the door of my dorm inform me that my gym clothes need to be washed…badly. Every time I do my laundry, I always read the back of the label to make sure the measurements of bleach are correct. The only reason for this is because if you add more bleach to your whites than needed, your going to have itchy undershirts and socks for the rest of the day…trust me.


Object #3: Fire Drill Note

Overall Significance: This note is posted on the back of my dorm’s door and I see this every time I leave the room. It is only today that I closely read a sentence that states “Do not attempt to fight a fire…let a professional do it.” I chuckled and thought to myself “well…no kidding”
but God forbid if someone was in trouble then I would do whatever it takes to help them out, professional or not.


Object #4: Lysol Disinfectant Spray

Overall Significance: Never will I look at a can of Lysol the same after this semester. I have used numerous cans of this kind through out this semester due to my smelly roommate. I would read the label of the can to see if the spray would effect the fabrics on my clothes before I saturate them in hopes to kill the smell of his horrible body odor. I originally thought it was my gym clothes but I was wrong. Very wrong.


Object # 5: My Watch

Overall Significance: My watch was given to me as a gift from my fiancée for our one year anniversary. It is very important to me because it symbolizes a timeless fight to do well for myself as well as for our future together. My watch reminds me that I must make use of the time allotted to me to do well in everything that is most important to me. " Let him who would enjoy a good future waste none of his present." -Roger Babson

Bedtime Stories on Ipods

The article titled, "Bedtime Stories now Available on Ipods" discusses how children can listen to books through ipods. The audio stories are offered for children of preschool level and above. Furthermore "AudibleKids" aim is to create a social network for children and parents. Some argue that children need to "connect words to the page" if they are going to be successful readers. However, some also argue that struggling readers can benefit from audio. Hearing the words can seem more clear to some children.

I think that the idea of books on ipods is a fine idea. I do not believe that it should be the only method of teaching reading. However, like the article stated, a good narrator can make the story captivating. Since books on audio is not a new idea, this should not be a shock that audio books can be downloaded onto ipods. Some parents of traditional beliefs feel that the reading experience is more enriching if their children can see the words and hold the book.

Any way a parent decides to encourage reading I suspect is beneficial. A child is still learning by listening. They learn comprehension, and how to interpret what they hear through audio books. Children should also have a solid foundation that comes along with reading from an actual book. I think that audio books are a good way to get children used to books and reading.

Susan's Literacy Dig...

Starting in the refrigerator...
Object #1: Post it note reading "Raw milk."
Overall Significance-This is a note that my grandfather just milked one of his cows and that gallon of milk I don't want to use on my cereal in the morning.

Next is my bedroom...
Object #2: Calendar "May 12-16."
Overall Significance- This reminds me of all the studying I have to do inorder to pass my finals. (Causing me to become stressed)


Object #3: NY Giants Poster
Overall Significance- The poster reminds me of the great time I had this past fall at the Giants/Jets pre-season game at Giants Stadium.

Object #4: Picture Frame surrounded by words such as "Love, True, Hugs & Kisses."
Overall Significance- Holds a picture of my boyfriend and I at the fair. Looking at it always puts a smile on my face.

Last is my Backpack....
Object #5: Assignment Pad box May 9th "literacy Dig due."
Overall Significance- This is a reminder to me that this assignment is due by May 9th.

Ashley Fischetti's Literacy Dig

1)

     My cellphone:

                        Overall significance:  My phone is definitely an extremely significant tool I use each day. Thinking about it, I probably send/receive about 400 text messages a day, and using T9word, tests one's ability to spell and think about what word is being used. Also, receiving a T9word message, reading a mistake isn't the only test; when they spell something wrong, it makes the reader think about what they could have meant, and it constantly a test of reading and spelling. 

2) 

    Facebook:

                    Overall significance: Using facebook daily to check for practice schedules, important events, email/messages, and other comments is definitely a test of literacy every day. I personally check my facebook every time i sit down at my computer i check my facebook, and sometimes linger on it browsing. 

3)

   Post it Notes I leave to myself:

                    Overall significance: Every night, I make a post it note for myself for the next morning's to do list, or a phone number I will need in the near future, or birthdays coming up or tests/quizzes/papers etc. I have stacks upon stacks of post its from months ago in my desk drawer. 

4) 

     Hot Pockets Box:

                    Overall significance: I have been eating hot pockets since i was a junior in high school when i realized their true beauty, and I can still never remember how long to put them in the microwave for! 

5) 

      Medicine Bottles:

                Overall significance: Besides the obvious reasons, I tend to read labels a lot when I am bored, and I am also frequently sick, so before I take anything, no matter how many times I have taken it before, I read the label. 

6)

     Ipod: 

           Overall significance: I never leave my room without my ipod. It consists of 2667 songs, and almost 600 artists or soundtracks. I read through my ipod every day, not realizing that I am actually reading and using that ability at that point in time. 

                     

For Children, A Better Beginning

The article, "For Children, A Better Beginning" in the April 24, 2008 issue of the Washington Post describes the progress of children from birth to 10 in 2006 compared to 1994. The article states "Sixth-graders feel safer in school. Math and reading scores are up for 9-year-olds. More preschoolers are vaccinated. Fewer are poisoned by lead." The article credits improvement in government policies and the economy as well as better parenting. Specifically the decline in the amount of mothers who smoke has caused great improvement in the health of young children. Also, more parents read to their children and limit T.V. watching.
In young children, the biggest influence in their lives are their parents. When students grades are higher and school violence is down, I feel it reflects better parenting more than any other factor. It's vital for children to learn discipline and good behavior patterns at home to be able to display those qualities in school. Even for elementary school teachers, their job is mainly to teach the course work rather than discipline the students. Especially when classes are over-crowded, the teacher can't give too much individual help to each student.
It's overall good for society when fewer people are smoking. It's good to see the positive impact it's had on young children. In the coming years, the economy is likely to get worse. It's understandable if the performance of children decline, but hopefully the amount of people smoking won't go back up. While the factors I mentioned in this blog have improved, the rate of childhood obesity has increased. It would be great to see the same trend happen with obesity that we've seen with smoking.

RateMyProfessor.com Gets Rated

A study performed by Michael Sonntag, vice president for academic affairs at the University of Maine at Presque Isle, raises questions as to the validity of RateMyProfessor.com. Most professors state that they do not trust this rating system because it does not take into account those students who did not do the work or have some other reason for giving a negative rating. Sonntag's survey researched the correlation between the rating system from the website and a student evaluation system, used nationwide, called IDEA. IDEA is used by about 275 colleges across the nation and is run by a nonprofit organization affiliated with Kansas State University. Unlike RateMyProfessor.com, IDEA gives a lot of control to the faculty members. It allows the professors to identify the teaching methods they feel are important to the class, and adjustments are made for uncontrollable factors, such as class size, and students' work habits. The argument is that the website ratings do not address these factors and, therefore, cannot be an accurate portrayal of professors' capabilites. However, Sonntag's survey found that there was a high correlation between these two systems. When 126 professors' rankings, from Lander University of SC, were looked at using both systems, the results were surprisingly similar. Sonntag asserts that this could mean one of two things: that RateMyProfessor.com is more accurate than people give it credit for, or that the IDEA survey is not a very accurate evaluation system either. The president of IDEA, William Pallet, is surprised by these results and stands by the validity of IDEA, pointing out that it is not, however, the end-all-be-all of professor evaluation. He emphasizes that more factors than just student evaluation are taken into account, but he does feel that the evaluations have merit. Sonntag states that he has, over his 10 year run as a professor, taken RateMyProfessor.com evaluations into account, when deciding what was working for him and what wasn't. He addresses the fact that some evaluations are just mean-spirited but, if you disregard those statements, the others can be useful. In fact he found validation for some of the methods he uses, by hearing from students that they were useful and productive. I for one, am inclined to agree with Sonntag. I had never even heard of RateMyProfessor.com until this semester. Out of curiosity, I checked it out and to my surprise, it was usually fairly accurate. I was not shocked to discover that most of the professors people complain about the most, who will remain nameless, are the ones that had the most comments. What I was shocked about, however, was that most of what was said about them was positive, rather than negative. It seemed that the students who actually did their work and could look beyond some, maybe less than desirable, habits these professors might have, could see and appreciate the benefits of their teaching strategies. I have often found myself defending a professor, or two, that others find to be too abrasive or too hard of a grader. The students on the website seem to be doing the same. The general consensus is: do the work and you'll be fine and you'll learn a lot. Of course, there were those negative comments, but I found that the only professor who really got nothing but negative comments, honestly deserved much of what was said. I hate to say it, but I have taken a course with this professor myself, and have never spoken with anyone who thought the class was conducted in a well-rounded, professional manner. (I'd like to point out, here, that this is the only professor I have ever had, whom which I have not been able to find something positive to say). All in all, like Sonntag argues, if you look past those students who only seem to be holding a grudge, I think most of the comments can be taken at face value and considered fairly accurate. That being said, I caution everyone to make their own decisions. No one should ever decide not to take a class based on what other people feel about a professor. That could be the professor who changes your life in a profound beneficial way.

Simulated Parent-Child Bonding at Bedtime

A recent AP article by Melissa Rayworth introduces a recent trend, pioneered by Don Katz, of bedtime stories being available on digital audio players. Apparently, "I hear lots of people talking, saying that when they put their kids to bed, they put them down with an audio book," says Audio Publishers Association president Michele Cobb. So his response was to make books available for kids on their ipods.

I have seriously mixed feelings about this topic. On the one hand, we have kids who aren’t being read to by their parents and they are missing out on an excellent way to bond and learn. The attempts should be made to get the parents to hang on an extra thirty minutes and read a book. I look back at bedtime stories with my father quite fondly and I feel bad for kids that don’t have that. So in a way it is good that these kids have access to their books being read aloud but I don’t feel audio books make up for parent involvement.

Plus if kids are only listening to books, they are missing out on an opportunity to jump start their education and make learning a lot easier. Granted hearing the words if beneficial but I wonder if the kids actually have the books to read along with, and I’m going to assume the answer is probably no. Kids should have parents who read to them often, not just at night, all the time, and audio books cannot take the place of that; audio books used in conjunction of course could only help a child’s potential.

“Katz believes that reaching kids through digital media may inspire them to have a lifelong love of books — even the old-fashioned printed kind” (Rayworth). I hope, for the sake of a generation of children, that this is the case. I do understand his point here though, lets take a kid that hates to read for example but gets lured into reading by audio books and of course this would be a positive thing but only if he eventually makes the jump from just listening to actually reading.