It's Been Fun!

Students,

Well, that's it! It's the end of the semester! I just wanted to leave you with a final note, letting you know what a privilege it has been to be your professor for the past few months. Your creativity and excitement about the world remind me every day why I am a teacher.

To my COM 130 students...

Many of you indicated you would keep blogging after this course, and I am so excited hear that news. Please stay in touch, and keep me posted about any changes you make to your blog addresses. I did my best to categorize your blogs on the right...I suspect I'll be making some changes to it after the holiday break.

Don't be a stranger, and visit often!

Thank you,

Jill Falk

Creating Your Personal Brand

Today in COM 130 we discussed the concept of "personal branding". While there's no shortage of information available via a Google search, I thought I'd leave a few links for you, should you be curious to learn more.

Here is the Slideshare presentation we used in class today from personal branding guru Dan Schawbel. What did you take away from this discussion?

View Upload your own

I’ll leave you with three key ideas from my very good friend and former colleague, Kammie Kobyleski, who is a strong believer in personal branding:

"My biggest advice would be to keep 3 things in mind:

Authenticity - Be who YOU are and be it LOUD and proud (focus on your strengths).

Clarity - Be crystal clear who YOU are, "niche thyself"...don't try to be everything to everyone...Guy Kawasaki says "polarize people"...some will love you some will
not, it's OK...build your tribe and leave the rest.

Consistency - Once you've identified your strengths and values, be it over and over...the way you dress, write emails, correspond by phone, in person is ALL a reflection of brand YOU."

I believe the key idea for college students like you to keep in mind is...DON'T WAIT! I swear I feel like your mother, er, I mean big sister, repeating this caveat of knowledge constantly - DON'T WAIT! In other words, define and design your personal brand now.

The walls between the college classroom and the real world are imaginary. You are already in the real world.

Three Ways to Impress Me With Your Final Project (COM 130)

First, let me say how excited I am about your final project ideas! I cannot wait to read your blogs! They will actually make grading fun, to say the least. Since we only have one more day together, :( I wanted to write a post that gives you a little more advice and information about your project, in particular, what will impress me.

Use Your Voice - the YOU Factor

The hardest part for any media creators like you is to find your own voice. There is no shortage of information available to you online about your given topic, but what do YOU have to say? What can YOU contribute? What knowledge do YOU have to give your classmates? And don't say, "none", because we all are experts on something! Don't sell yourself short.

Many of you wanted to do a fan-type blog, and that is fine too, tons of people have chosen that route in the blogosphere today. I'd like to reiterate that if you do make a fan site, be sure to add a disclaimer somewhere, and be very careful about using copyrighted content. But most importantly, what can YOU add to the conversation? What about YOU makes you the right person to provide commentary on the television show or musician you have chosen?

Using Lists in Your Posts

One way to jazz up a blog entry is to include a list. For example, "Seven Ways to Impress Professor Falk" could be a title of a post, followed by numbered examples and information in your blog. This does two things for you. First, it makes your content easy for your readers to quickly digest. Second, it helps you organize and hone in on your blog topic for that day. Of course, while this is a great idea for some posts, be careful not to overdo it. Your readers may get annoyed. Here are a few other examples off the top of my head:

"Ten Ways to Avoid the Freshman 15"

"Five Things I Learned My First Semester in College"

"Six Ways to Help You Wake Up for 8:00 Classes"

You get the idea...

Multimedia Elements

You've heard me rant about these all semester...audio, photographs and video!  Anytime  you can incorporate these elements and add to your discussion, it only enhances what you are trying to say.  It shows me you have done research on your topic to see what else is out there.  I can always tell who is going to earn an "A" on a blog post--I typically end up spending forever checking out their links!

Just a reminder, on Friday (our last class day), I will explain how to add a LinkedIn badge to your page, as well as how to use Google Analytics.  There will also be some time to work on any technical issues you may be having.  See you then!

"Smurf It Up"

COM 130 students,

I hope you were able to take something away from today's discussion. Here are the links to the videos I showed you in class.

Vision of Students Today by Dr. Michael Wesch
Gary Vaynerchuck's Web 2.0 Keynote - click here for Gary's actual website.

Anything else you'd like to add to this conversation?

"Is YouTube the Next Google?"

As we often study how people use media in our courses, I thought I'd share this post with you from a website called ReadWriteWeb.  The article discusses the idea that one day, we may use YouTube as our primary search engine.  Essentially, we would prefer video information over text.  Anything relevant we would need to search, surely there's a video or two on YouTube about it!  

You are the experts, you tell me.  When you want information, do you go to Google first, or to YouTube?  Can you see the progression the author is talking about?  With the lure of rich media, will we begin to prefer video over text?  

The article got me thinking of recent examples where I've used YouTube, instead of Google, and I immediately began to understand.  Just last week I was curious about a treacherous ski run in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.  Well if the ski run is that infamous, certainly there are YouTube videos for it!  And sure enough a few seconds later, I find Corbet's Coulior is chillin', just waiting for me to click, like the 11,575 times it's been watched before.  

Not only did I learn from this video that there's no way on God's green earth I will EVER ski down this thing, but I also picked up a phrase that I have already repeated at least 15 times just to be funny..."he just did yard sale".  Modeling would be the academic phrase for mimicking, right?  (don't act like you haven't picked up lingo from YouTube videos)

And almost immediately, I'm reminded of the truly fascinating media world we live in.  Isn't it crazy, that somehow, after watching this video, I feel as if I have experienced this mountain and feel compelled to repeat phrases from it?

These are the things that keep me up at night and so excited to be teaching media courses at this stage in the game.  

Speaking of YouTube, did anyone notice the change in video player size?

Yet, Another Name for Gen Y

Check out this video from an organization called, "Generation-We". After the video, leave your thoughts. Is this you? What do you agree or disagree with? Do you want to be part of this movement?


Generation WE: The Movement Begins... from Generation We on Vimeo.

Web Bytes: Phelps, Flacks and Chickens

Here is another installment of Web Bytes, where I attempt to bring you informative, entertaining, and relevant news items that relate to issues discussed in class this week (both COM 130 & COM 327). So, here's what's up for discussion this time:

Recently, my student bloggers analyzed that word Rift hates called, "convergence". Particularly, in the case of television. Text-messaging may not be the only problem for teachers in the future, but MTV's The Hills could be. What I'm getting at is the future of mobile television. Check out this link and let me know what you think. Is this something you see yourself using or demanding?

Also, we talked about Subway's Jared this week, but he may be taking a back seat to Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps, as discussed in this AdAge article. What does Michael Phelps' celebrity status mean for Subway?

In COM 130 this week, we discussed the public relations industry and the term, "flacks". Just to prove it's regularly used, check out who won these coveted "flack/flak awards".

Many political operatives were honored in the above link, but let's talk Obama now. Specifically, his use of new media to communicate a message. His campaign has pundits talking about whether or not he'll be a Web 2.0 president, just like he was in his run for office. If so, he would be the first president to utilize social media. What do you think? How would this benefit/hurt him?

Like Subway, it's no surprise to anyone that companies hope to capitalize by using celebrities to sell products. The latest to get buzz? Gucci and Rihanna...not a lot going on in this ad, but in reference to "image advertising", what's the message here?

And finally, for no reason at all...because a few of my students said this was funny.

YouTube Embed

Here's my video:
Isn't that funny?

Moms Take on Motrin and Win

Since we discuss advertising and new media so heavily in class, I thought I'd share with you a very interesting article I read on David Armano's blog, Logic + Emotion.

He tracks a "groundswell" of tech-savvy moms upset and offended by a recent advertisement from the pain reliever, Motrin. It's an interesting example of how quickly an event can grow online and force change. Check it out and leave your reactions below. My guess is Motrin's sales will take a hit from this one...

Oh, and just for fun...for my Matrix-loving-PC-haters, I found this video today I think you'll enjoy.

Expect More Ads at the Movies...That Is, If You Still GO to the Movies...

There's no doubt that advertisers are trying to find us, wherever we make be lurking. But this article from AdAge surprised me a little. It talks about how retailers like Gap are placing more targeted spots in movie theaters, hoping to reach consumers there. Do you think this is a good idea on their part? My first thought is, aren't movie sales shrinking as Gen Y occupies itself with other sources of entertainment?

As we've discussed in class, there are two things that happen with movie advertisements: 1) if you show up on time you are a captive audience 2) you know you can be an extra 15 minutes late and don't see the ads at all.

To me, I find ads before movies incredibly annoying. I mean, I just PAID money for a movie ticket and these media companies are still trying to profit? Irritating. I will say, they do a good job of at least making the ads entertaining. (On a media literacy front, I guess it's better to see the clearly labeled ads at the beginning, as opposed to keeping an eye out for hidden product placement.)

So what do you think? With today's economy and a bleak holiday shopping forecast, are more targeted ads in movie theaters the answer retailers are hoping for?

What Made Gen Y Get Out the Vote?

Four years ago I remember a certain few celebrities, like Paris Hilton, stumping for the youth vote with Diddy's "Vote or Die" campaign. Everyone thought young people (you know who you are) would answer the call and prove to their elders they were not slackers at the ballot box.

Paris Hilton didn't even vote.

That was 2004.

What I gathered from the news coverage last night is that this year, things were different. Gen Y proved the once-apathetic young voting block does care and tipped the scales in Obama's favor. As a relatively new Facebook user, I was surprised how vocal my friends were when it came to stumping for their favorite candidate in their status updates...so the buzz certainly was out there. I see it in my classrooms too...students seem to care this time around.

I want to know, what made the difference for you this year, Gen Y?

A Web 2.0 Video

Today in COM 130 we talked about the buzz phrase "Web 2.0". Perhaps, I should have not said word and shown this video instead...



The end is my favorite part!

As a professor, I'm definitely envious of Dr. Wesch!

Also, here's a link to the "talking search engine lady" I referenced today but could not remember. Ms. Dewey is her name, and I suspect my male students will want to see more of her.

Just Because I Think You'd Enjoy These...

Social Networking Wars, from Current:

You Can Vote However You Liiiiiike (click here for lyrics)

Obama's Half-Hour Pitch

Tonight, Sen. Barack Obama will air a 30-minute campaign program on all the major networks, except ABC, at 7:00p.m. It's reportedly a push to get those undecided voters.

I'd like you to weigh in after the program tonight. Was this move effective on Obama's part? What production values and connotative images did you notice? Was there anything in the video you believed worked against him and perhaps helped Sen. McCain?

MTV's Digital Answer to the Question, "Where Has the M Gone in MTV?"

In COM 130 this week, we discussed the website Hulu as an example of media convergence, as well as an example of how on-demand videos are growing in popularity online.

I'm not sure what has taken MTV so long, but it's finally putting its wealth of music label connections and popular content online with a new site, MTVMusic.com.


There, you can search your favorite videos from the old, sober Britney to the what-were-we-thinking-in-the-80's Devo. Now, the obvious question...if most music videos are already widely available on YouTube, why use MTVMusic.com? You tell me...will this be successful? Oh, and what video did you search for first?

Article Review: Broken Broadcast Advertising Model

COM 130 and COM 327 students, in class we often discuss the changing media landscape in regards to how advertisers are trying to target you, and how networks are trying to see if you are watching. This article from AdAge.com discusses what some broadcasters are theorizing could be the future of audience marketing techniques and measurement. How do they know who is watching what program on television, or online, and are the commercials working to sell products?

Take 10 minutes and read the article. Leave your thoughts to these questions below by Wednesday at 1:00p.m for 10 points. This is not extra credit. Students who have me in both classes will earn 10 points for each course.

Questions to ponder:
Hearing what the professionals have to say about the problems and solutions to audience measurement, what do you think about how they are trying to solve the issue? Which part of the article to you agree or disagree with the most?

COM 130 Blog Prompt: Electronic Industries Blog Post

Here is the information we discussed in class today about your next blog, due Friday, 10/31. I prefer two entries, 500 words total, not 500 words each. You can submit them together for Turn It In.

Two part assignment:

• Television: Part 1 – How have the Internet and convergence impacted the television industry? Give specific examples with links to what you’re talking about.
• The Internet: Part 2 – Tell me about your favorite blog (not any blog tied to this class). Explain the website’s multimedia components and why it is or is not effective.
  Again, give specific examples and links to what you’re talking about.
• If you don’t have a favorite blog that you visit outside of this class, pick one from Brazen Careerist’s blogger community that interests you. Be sure to visit the blogger's actual website, not just his or her article for Brazen Careerist. Update: If Brazen Careerist bloggers don't tickle your fancy, perhaps one of Media Bistro's will. Check out its blogging community here.
  

Media Talk Web Bytes...or, What?

I'm going to start a new weekly post for you, but I'm having a brain fart as to what I should call it. You've probably realized I like to name things around here. For now, I've picked "Media Talk Web Bytes", but I'm not really sold on this. Previously, I chose "Link Round-Up", but felt that sounded too much like corn seed. I need your help. What should I call this? The goal is to provide you with clips, articles and buzz from the web that pertains to our course material, as well as content that might, just might, make you laugh.

Here's the first installment...

In case you missed the "roast" between presidential candidates Obama and McCain, here's a one-minute wrap-up from Current with the funniest quotes, proving these two might be better served just making us laugh once in a while than pointing fingers.

The dancing moose is my favorite part. Just when you thought SNL couldn't do any more or less for Sarah Palin...there's this...the Palin rap.

So, Gen Y wants to wear jeans to the workplace. Cool. Gen Y wants to work when they are most productive, not 9-5. I can dig it. How else can you revolutionize the workplace and why does this guy have beef people hating on Gen Y? This is you, people. Do you agree with his "utter crap" comment?

From chimps, to Android rappers to Apple ads. Think you know so-called viral videos? I found this great website that shows you the top 20, and how they are trending. I thought for sure I'd see the one my friend e-mailed me recently about a lady named Scarlett, but it wasn't there (skip to 2:45 for the laughs). Warning: this website will cause you to waste minutes of your life that you will never get back. Ever. Thanks, ninja cat.

Oh, and finally...your professor here joined Facebook. Yep. Call me an addict, but don't friend me up just yet...I need to figure out a policy for dealing with current students so I don't get in trouble.

Which "byte" was your favorite? Ideas for a less-corny name?

COM 130 - Four Blog Tasks

1 - Sign up for a Gmail account (no tutorial needed here)
2 - Add RSS or subscription buttons to your blog
3 - Sign into Gmail, and practice subscribing to the class blog by clicking "Reader" in the upper left corner and typing this blog's URL in the "add subscription" box. We'll add your classmates' blogs later.
4 - Add the class calendar to your Google calendar

Meantime, why are we doing this and what the heck is a feed reader?

Jury Duty Schedule Upate

Your professor fulfilled her civic duty for the city of St. Louis today and does not need to return to the courthouse. This means that all courses will meet as scheduled beginning tomorrow, Tuesday, 10/21 and for the rest of the week.

Just to clarify...

Tuesday, 10/21
9:30 & 11:00 COM 327 Media Literacy WILL MEET

Wednesday, 10/22
8:00 & 9:00 COM 130 Survey of Professional Media WILL MEET
11:00 COM 304 Broadcast Newswriting WILL MEET (as planned previously with story ideas)

Man, am I glad this is over with and I get to see my students shining faces tomorrow, instead of lawyers!

Something for Comm Majors to Ponder...Who Will You Lead?

Dear students,

Let me introduce you to one of my favorite bloggers, Seth Godin. I'll let him give you the details of his accomplishments on his website. He writes amazing, out-of-the-box blogs about marketing and new media that I read daily because I value his approach and fresh ideas. You've heard me talk consistently about the "changing media landscape" and question what it means to be a Mass Communications major these days. Are you acquiring skills that will be truly relevant in four years?

This is a hard question to answer. One that keeps me up and night. Seth has a great post today about marketing that I challenge you to read.

Please pay particular attention to the final paragraph of the post. That's the one I want to hear your comments on. How have our media and marketing worlds changed, and what are you going to contribute? What are you going to do to with your degree?

I ask this sincerely.

COM 130: Student Guinea Pigs Needed

COM 130 students, I need some volunteers to test two new social media outlets for me:

Twitter

BlogTalkRadio

On Twitter, sign up and follow "lusurvey". That's me, and I've created it for COM 130. For BlogTalkRadio, visit the link above, sign-up for an account and test it by posting your voice on your blog. Just talk for about a minute or so about whatever you want that has to do with our course material.

You have until Thursday afternoon at 3:00 to complete this. E-mail me when you've completed one or both. Ten extra credit points are possible for the BlogTalkRadio experiment.

Good luck!

Obama Ad Appears On Video Game Billboard

Talk about a changing media landscape! AdAge.com put this link up about an ad appearing in a video game called Burnout Paradise. Check out the article, and tell me what you think. Is this a good idea? What else is appearing in video games these days now that many gaming systems are connected to the Internet?

COM 327 - Campaign Ads Analysis Links

Media Literacy students, here are the links for your next assignment:

Pick One Positive and One Negative Ad:

Positive:
From Sen. John McCain’s Campaign (Pro-McCain):
“Leadership”
“Week”

From Sen. Barack Obama’s Campaign (Pro-Obama):
“America’s Leadership”
“Mother”

Negative:
From Sen. John McCain’s Campaign (Anti-Obama):
“Dangerous”
“Folks”
“Passed Over”

From Sen. Barack Obama’s Campaign (Anti-McCain):
“Don’t Know Much”
“Strong”
“Destination”

COM 130 students, which ad is your favorite and why? Which ones are funny to you?

Get Your Hate On: The Protest Over FaceBook's Facelift

I've heard that many of my students are Facebook users...(insert duh face here). I've also heard rumblings about the social networking behemoth's new look, and that some people are less than thrilled about it. Well, leave it to a few socialmedialites (get it?) to start a protest. No, make that a few million people!

So, my fellow students and FaceBook addicts, what are your thoughts on this protest? Do you think it will have an impact? Are you going to boycott the site during the protest in a few weeks? Or, should people quit whining?

And for those not in the know...what's the big deal about the new FaceBook?

COM 130 Blog Prompt: Presidential or Vice Presidential Debate Reaction Post

For COM 130 students next blog post assignment, I would like you to watch one of the presidential or vice-presidential televised debates and write a blog about it. For more information on debates, visit the Commission on Presidential Debates website.

Meantime, here are the dates of the next three:

October 2nd - Vice Presidential Debate (this one takes place at Washington University in St. Louis) - 8:00 pm Central Time

• October 7nd - Second Presidential Debate - 8:00 pm Central Time


• October 15th - Third Presidential Debate - 8:00 pm Central Time

For the assignment, pick one of the three you want to watch and analyze for your 500-word post. This is a critical thinking post. I want you to "review and react" to the debates. Here are some examples of questions you can (but are not limited to) answer:

• Did you agree with the questions?


• Which channel or news network did you select to watch the debate? (all networks and cable news channels will carry the debates - NBC, CBS, ABC, MSNBC, CNN, Fox News, PBS) If you watched it on the Internet, what website did you choose for debate coverage?
• What did you think of the candidates' responses?


• In your opinion, did the debate have a clear winner or loser? Which quotes did you find most memorable? What will you remember the most about this debate? What will go down in the history books?


• What can either candidate do to improve his or her demeanor in these debates? In other words, what can they do in the future to "come across better" to voters?


• Finally, have you made a decision about who you plan to vote for? If you feel comfortable sharing, please do. However, you won't lose any points for not claiming a side, or explaining that you don't like either candidate.

The blog post is due by Friday, October 17th. That's two days after the last televised debate. You will also need to submit your post to TurnItIn.com. This post is worth 30 points, because you are doing extra work by watching the debates. Isn't that nice? I'm rewarding you for paying attention! :)

Extra Credit Alert: You Weigh in on the First Televised Presidential Debate

All classes, from now until Monday at noon, leave your comments about Friday's debate between Senator John McCain and Senator Barack Obama. I'll give you five extra credit points.

Here are my immediate thoughts:

Sen. McCain dominated the military conversations, Sen. Obama took the lead on the economy. Obama kept calling McCain, "John". Meantime, I didn't hear McCain calling his opponent, "Barack".

To me, McCain seemed to answer most of his questions in a narrative format, meaning several answers were more like stories. Obama had a hard time interrupting McCain on a number of occasions, as McCain seemed to take over.

Overall, I thought it was a good-spirited debate, not overly contentious. Both sides are in turbo-spin mode. Both sides claim victory.

Also, I'd be curious to know if you watched any of the news coverage afterwards, and what your thoughts were. I, of course, flipped around (and at this hour, still am flipping because I'm a news nerd). CNN seems to have 25 people commenting, Sen. Biden is in spin mode...Where's Sarah Palin? Fox News and MSNBC have their usual suspects. The talking points I keep hearing are: Obama said a number of times he "agreed" with McCain. Meanwhile, McCain repeated the phrase "you don't understand" to Obama several times.

A Gen Y note...both respective YouTube channels already house propaganda videos from tonight's debate. (Obama, McCain)

Okay, that's enough from me...now it's your turn.

What do you think? In your opinion, who won? What lines did you find memorable? In addition, are there relevant issues you didn't hear discussed that you think should have been? Do these debates matter to you?

Your Wireless Future and the Campaign to "Free the Airwaves"

In one of your communications courses you should have studied the electromagnetic spectrum as a means for how we enjoy "free" radio and television over the airwaves. Perhaps, you've learned of the digital changeover that's scheduled for February 2009. Once television broadasters move their signals from the spectrum, there's going to be some free space up for grabs.

What to do what to do. Certainly, there's some money to be made somewhere by media companies, right?

Well, Google and various others have started a Free the Airwaves campaign. They are requesting the FCC allow use of these new, open "white spaces". Google argues it will allow more room for "wireless" devices to operate and help provide WiFi-type services for more people. Check out their YouTube channel for more background on the issue.

Sounds great, but one problem...some broadcasters don't see it Google's way, and they certainly have friends over at the FCC. To further the debate, Google co-founder Larry Page has even gone so far as to accuse broadcasters of "rigging" tests on use of the airwaves for mobile devices.

You weigh in. As complicated and scientific as this debate is, check out the links above and leave your thoughts below. This will certainly impact the future of wireless communications. Do you agree with the Free the Airwaves campaign? Would you like to see the white spaces used for more wireless commerce? Or, do you agree with the broadcasters that Google's plan doesn't work?

COM 130's LTTGYE Links

Hey, I'm just trying to be like you with the acronyms...

Anyhow, here are the links to today's COM 130 articles. We used these as material for our mini-speed presentations for Let's Talk Tech and the Gen Y Effect. All five are fab and all five are from AdAge.com.

Surprise! You text more than you talk!

Does the iPhone have competition now?

Shia's new movie, follow on your phone

KFC monitors 90210

Better late than never in the social networking world, MTV

So, tell me, did you like this second installment better than the last time? I think we were talking about SpinSpotter and campaign ads then. I tried to keep a marketing to Gen Y theme today. You tell me...what kinds of topics to you enjoy debating the most?

CNN's Campbell Brown Says "Stop the Sexism" with Sarah Palin

Do you agree with Campbell Brown or not? Why?

Real Celebrities

Since you had so much fun with this in class today...here are the links. Now, go tell all of your friends about retouched photos.

Nine cover stories (Kate, Andy, Britney)
iWANEX Studio
Faith Hill

What do you think? To retouch or not to retouch?

Trouble the Water: Are You Interested in this Film?

A friend sent me a link to a movie trailer today and I thought I'd share it with you. It's a documentary called, Trouble the Water. It's about hurricane Katrina victims as they try to survive and reclaim their lives. Watch this clip and let me know if this film has your interest. What's the media impact angle here? Can telling this story change opinions and ideas held about the victims of Katrina?

Is Gen Y Getting Left Behind in the Classroom?

Hey, Gen Y, I found a fascinating article from PBS' MediaShift blog. I would love for you to check it out and leave your thoughts. It's written by an NYU journalism student and blogger. It has since caused some scandal at the university.

But it did get me thinking, are you feeling left behind? What would you like to see more/less of in your college courses? I'm asking this out of my own curiosity. (I request you don't name specific names here, just general comments about what you would like to see improved in your classrooms.)

What do you expect to learn by pursuing a communications or journalism degree?

Trend Alert! Sarah Palin's Glasses

Listen up, people! We have a trend alert! Sarah Palin is sparking a glasses frenzy! And that is certainly more important than the weighty issues on the campaign trail.

I'm being facetious here.

Check out this feature story from CNN's Jeanne Moos about Sarah Palin's glasses. Keep in mind Ms. Moos is their feature-type reporter. She's the same one who covered Obama sneezing, so this isn't the lead story of the newscast, if that's what your wondering. But it is making news, nonetheless (along with news of her e-mail being hacked).



Anytime a female politician's wardrobe becomes the focus of attention, I can't help but wonder why? We aren't talking about Barack Obama's shoes or John McCain's suits. What does this media attention say about our values regarding women's appearances? Remember Michelle Obama's speech at the DNC? It was all about her blue dress.

I'm also thinking about the media impact angle here. Let's think celebrities for a second. Typically, we are emulating them by copying their shoes, handbag or car. But with Sarah Palin being the new political celebrity, it's just so funny to me that people are modeling her "look". I can only imagine how various companies must be clamouring to give her free stuff so she will be photographed and videotaped wearing it. Aren't there more important things to talk about?

Tell me what you think.

Dancing Lizards and Herding Cats

In case you'd like to see these again (and just for fun)...here are the links from today's media literacy discussion about production values.

Ads:
Gatorade 2008
SoBe Lifewater
Budweiser Clydesdale
Herding Cats

Movie Clip:
A Few Good Men

Just because you made me click on this:
The Angriest Cat

See? Now you'll never watch ANYTHING the same again! Glad I could ruin things for you. Now get off the couch and jump up and down...

Have favorites you didn't see today? Leave me the links below!

Media Talk #2 Links - COM 327

Another great job today by my Media Literacy students! Here are the links to our stories and videos from today. Again, students in my other classes, feel free to check out what we were up to and share your thoughts on these media issues.

Tina Fey as Sarah Palin on SNL
Campaign ads turn ugly, Obama and sex education, McCain and computers, Karl Rove says McCain ad goes too far
Photographer Jill Greenberg doesn't like McCain, Today's update on the issue - editor apologizes
YouTube bans violent videos
Reporters blown away, is this necessary? Weather Channel, Al Roker, Canoeing in shallow waters
Obama's cold - old Jeanne Moos story

A Spiffier Media Talk

I bet you're doing a double take right about now, wondering if this is the right blog or not. Hope you like the new look! I have to give props to a certain Multimedia Production major here at Lindenwood (you know who you are). He's the one who created the banner. I only dream of being that artistic.

In class you hear me nag about how communications students should be creative, well it was time for me to step up to a custom banner. If you get the urge to create one for your blog (or find someone who can), let me know and I'll be sure to direct attention your way so everyone can appreciate it.

As this blog grows, I'm sure I'll be tweaking things again. So, what's the verdict, you like?

Hey, Gen Y, It's a Lettuce Virus!

I realize we haven't talked about viral marketing this semester yet (we will later), but I must hear your thoughts on this latest attempt by marketers trying to get your college cash (insert, "what cash?" here). According to this article on AdAge.com, Wendy's has launched a new "viral" campaign for it's "Baconater" burger.

Check it out:



In previous semesters, I've referenced Burger King and its Subservient Chicken as a case of viral marketing. (Tell me how much time you can waste on that website.)

Your Gen Y boy over at MillennialMarketer.com doesn't seem to think the lettuce-gone-wild will have much of an impact. I'll have to agree, since its hits on YouTube sit just above a thousand as I'm writing this. I'm going to admit that I did laugh at the lettuce, much more than I chuckled at the new Microsoft-Seinfeld ads.

So, here are my questions: do you think this viral marketing attempt will sell more burgers for Wendy's? Or, are you smart enough to sniff out a marketer, even if its wearing different clothing?

Russell Brand - Funny or Offensive?

I'm starting to feel old. After watching snippets of MTV's Video Music Awards last night, I became curious about one thing...what do my students think of this? I mostly curious about the host, Russell Brand.

These awards have changed from the days I remember them as the "must watch" event at the beginning of the college school year. Well, you are the students now, you are the show's target audience. Tell me what you think. Funny or offensive? Great show or poor performances? Do shows like this set the agenda for what is "cool" and "popular" among young people anymore? Are they still relevant?

New Seinfeld Microsoft Ads - Your Thoughts?

Just curious, because you are the "cool" generation and all...

What do you think about the new Microsoft ads featuring Jerry Seinfeld? Apparently, it's an effort to revamp the company's image. I'm sure you are all very familiar with the Mac is cooler than PC ads. Are these supposed to answer those?

I'm going to go on the record here and say that I am thoroughly confused. I do not understand the Seinfeld-Microsoft commercial. You tell me what you think...



Update: Here's a link to another one of these ads, courtesy of Jacob. Again, I'm a little confused. Do you think these are funny? I guess these ads are a series, as this newest one picks up where the above left off.

Should We Stop the Internet Paper Trail?

For those of you who may have missed the memo, much of what you click, search and surf online can be tracked by advertisers. Ever notice that it seems like some ads on the Internet are tailored just for you? Well, they are, and you might as well get used to it.

Or do you?

Well, that's the subject of this very interesting article from AdAge.com., discussing Microsoft's new Internet Explorer 8. It's been a busy week for browser news. This after Google's leak about its product, "Chrome".

Back to the topic of IE8...check out the article, and I'm curious to know who you are siding with: the advertisers or the people? On one hand, we can enjoy our favorite websites for free because advertising pays the bills. This means it's okay for them to find out our age, gender and zip code, so they can supply us with ads and information that "better meet our needs". On the other hand, do we actually have a choice about how much information we will allow companies to collect about us without our direct permission or knowledge? It appears as if IE8 will allow users to remove the electronic paper trail advertisers rely on.

Hmmm...an interesting media debate. You weigh in.

International Student Interview: What's the Media Like in Your Country?

COM 130 students, your next blog assignment involves interviewing an international student on campus. Chapter 1 of your text discusses how media is essentially the United States' leading export. Think movies, books, television shows, etc. How many young people in other countries learn about us through our media that we export? The text also discusses the "free press" we enjoy here, compared to government-controlled press in other countries.

You are the interviewer, you ask the questions! Let your own curiosity guide you through the interview. Make your post at least 500 words. It's due Monday, 9/8. You also need to submit your post to TurnItIn. Don't forget to add hyperlinks, pictures or videos to enhance your storytelling. Perhaps, there is a funny commericial you'd like to show us!

If you are an international student at LU, you can certainly interview a student from a different country if you want to. However, it would be fine for you to answer the questions yourself on your blog about how the media in your home country differs from the United States' media, and observations you have made since living here.

Can You Identify With Gen Y?

COM 130 students, Friday in class we discussed your generation, "The Millenials" or "Generation Y". Here are the links from today's presentation:

What generation are you? Take this media test from Penelope Trunk, blogger for the Gen Y network, The Brazen Careerist. I would encourage all of you to visit their site, and check out the bloggers.

In class, we also watched these two segments about The Millenials from 60 Minutes. Click here for Part 1 and Part 2.

I'm sure all of you have opinions about your generation. So, here's what I'm curious to know and read about in your blogs:

•Is this you?
•Do you agree with these assumptions made about your generation?
•What do you disagree with?
•What advice would you give older generations to effectively reach out and communicate with you?

The Millenials blog post is due on Friday, September 5th. As for how long it needs to be, I say make it a full page (double-spaced) in Microsoft Word, for example. Don't forget to jazz it up with hyperlinks, video or photographs that may pertain to your post. This should also be submitted to TurnItIn by 9/5.

Also, now that your blogs are linked to this page, take time this weekend to visit your classmates and comment on their passionate posts.

Texts, Tiger, Teachers and More - COM 327 Media Talk Links

Great job, Media Literacy students! Below are the links I used while researching today's presentation. Be sure to drop me a line and let me know what you thought about today's Media Talk!

For students in my other classes, feel free to check out these links, and I look forward to any comments you may have as well...

Obama's Text Message
McCain's "Celebrity" Negative Ad
Paris Hilton's Response Ad
Should Teachers Have a Facebook Page?
Tiger Woods' Jesus Shot (Original Video) (Professional Ad)
Ad Age: Are Marketers Responsible for Obesity in the African-American Community?

Would You Choose Your College Because of Facebook Ads?

Once again, another entity has wised up to the use of social networking sites with the hopes of capturing your eyes, and eventually, your dollars. This time it's various colleges and universities. Check out this Ad Age article and tell me what you think.


Is using Facebook a great way to get your attention? Why do you think it's more effective/less effective than the traditional means of advertising? Finally, what about Lindenwood? Would you like to see Lindenwood University place ads on social networking sites?

How To Set Up Your New Blog - Due Friday, August 29th

I bet you can't wait to start blogging, COM 130 students! I've set up some links here, and created a video to help you get started. The first thing you'll need to do is decide which blogging platform you want to use. There are three free blogging sites I can recommend for you:

Blogger
Wordpress
Vox

All three offer free and easy set-up. Check them out and decide which one you like the best. Personally, I find Blogger to be the easiest. For those in the class a bit intimidated by setting up the blog, I recommend they use Blogger. It's the platform I'm most familiar with, and the one I'll be able to help students troubleshoot the most.

For those experienced bloggers in my class, feel free to use another blogging platform besides the three listed above (like if you already have a Typepad account, for example).

Here's a short 3-minute video I made to demonstrate how easy it is to create your first blog. (Please forgive the video quality here, you'll be able to see the layout of the set up pages, but the typing is out of focus)




After you've set up your new blogging account, experiment with the layout and design. Here's a link with info to help you as you start out. Add information to your profile. Remember, you are not required to use your last name. Have fun! Change things around until you feel comfortable managing the content on your blog. It's probably a good idea to change the time zone from "Pacific" to "Central".

Finally, it's time to type your first post. You'll have to type it first in Microsoft Word, because that's how you'll submit it to Turn It In. The topic of your first post is to write about something you are passionate about. Anything. The Olympics, quilting, checking your Facebook account...just make sure it's a topic you can write plenty about, and find hyperlinks pictures and video for. It's up to you, this is mostly a post to get you familiar with blogging, and with Turn It In.

Type a post equal to the length of this one. When you're done typing your content in Word and submitting it to Turn It In, copy and paste your words to the "posting" area of your new blog. Be sure to add hyperlinks, pictures and even video, just to play around. If you can't figure out how to do these, try using the "Help" menu, or Google it. Any help you need managing your new blog is available on the web somewhere. I also request that you add a "subsciptions" option to your blog, so I and your fellow classmates can get regular updates about your work. Check out the first item on the right side of this page if you need an example of what a subscriptions button looks like.

When you've completed all of this, e-mail me the web address of your brand new blog. I'll link it to this home page. Check my profile and the class syllabus for my e-mail address.

Happy blogging!