Introductions

Overview

One of the myths about online courses is that there is no contact between the students. That is not the case. In fact, given the nature of the online environment, it is often easier to get to know your colleagues in an online class than it is to meet people in a traditional classroom. During the first week of class, there is a special emphasis on getting to know your colleagues. In addition to learning more about your colleagues, you also need to learn about the course expectations and functions. You will learn this material by reading the course orientation.

Discussion

This discussion topic was designed by Professor Mark Harris and is used with his permission.

For this first week's posting, and as a way to get to know each other a little bit, I thought we'd write around the theme of what we like to watch.

Give short responses to each of the following:

• What's your favorite movie?
• Name your favorite television show.
• List your favorite advertisement (print or tv).
• What's your favorite music video?

In your response, you should not just list the name of the movie, television show, advertisement, or video. Explain why they are your favorite.

Your answers can be historic rather than contemporary: that is, your favorite tv show doesn't have to be airing currently and your favorite movie doesn't need to be first-run.

Assessment

You will make at least one posting in the "Module 1: Introduction" discussion board. However, you are encouraged to respond to the postings made by other students.

Film

I love Citizen Kane (1943) and not just because I am supposed to think it is great. I still remember the huge impact it had on me when I first saw it more than 30 years ago. Last year, I watched the move again after having not seen it for several years. It occurred to me that the photography in the film has had an impact on my artwork.

TV

I enjoy crime shows such as CSI and Law and Order because I enjoy the mystery. Also, when I watch TV, it is usually as an escape in the evening before going to bed. Therefore, I do not want something too challenging.

Advertisement

Years ago, a computer company had a Christmas advertisement where a guy was holding mistletoe over his computer while preparing to kiss the woman on the screen. The two were connected by web cam.

Later I saw this same advertisement in The Advocate. It was identical except that a man’s face was on the monitor. I was not impressed because the computer company was marketing to the gay community. What impressed me was that the two advertisements were identical except for the photograph. There was nothing different between the gay and non-gay couple.

Video

I guess it is true that I am getting old. I have not really watched videos since MTV first came out. In fact, I still remember when MTV was nothing but videos.