Michael’s paper is going to be about Cyber Crimes and how information gets stolen online. Cyber crimes happen faster and easier than crimes in physical space, often go undetected longer and can be committed by anyone. Desperation is the motive and can happen when least expected. There are also more ways of harassment online. The solutions Michael gave are: locking laptops; not giving addresses out online; password requirement; privacy protection program; theft lock; and a regular credit report. Another thing Michael may want to mention is not leaving one’s laptop unguarded. Someone can always walk off with it. James mentioned not sending naked photos because they can always be posted online and would be there forever. I am sorry Michael experienced cyber theft and am glad that it eventually worked out for him.
Dan’s paper will be about Exploring the Correlation Between Video Games and Virtual Communities. His thesis is essentially the notable correlation between learning principles and online gaming, referencing Gee’s principles of Learning. Learning principles makes gaming better and allow master gamers to build upon other masters. Video games enhance online environments and may account for the increasing popularity of gaming. I am not a gamer but the challenged and learning principles as described by Dan make it sound more appealing.
Kristin’s paper is essentially the Hegemonic White Masculine Environment On The Internet, which I think sounds like a fascinating subject. She also spoke about fragmented implementation of K-7 program H.O.P.E., information literacy, cyber-bullying, over-sharing information, and sexting.
Derek’s thesis is about Mobile Technology, primarily cell phones and their increasing popularity and access in rural areas. One of Derek’s references is Silva and how the virtual community migrates, educational barriers, and McCann’s information age. I think it is almost impossible to live without a cell phone today.
Brent’s paper is on How Online Activity Changes Us. Some of the ways that Brent mentions was security and distance, license to say and do things we wouldn’t ordinarily, online sexual perversion, alternate identity, ability to lie easier, and how our society is becoming transparent. As part of the older generation I will remain more cautious about my personal information online.
Cynthia’s topic is Race and Ethnicity online: Representations in Cyberspace. Cynthia will discuss how cyberspace gives underrepresented groups (women, minorities, GLBT) more choices about representation that they wouldn’t otherwise have in traditional media. For example: stereotypes still exist in T.V. I especially appreciated Cynthia’s statement that underrepresented groups are able to create spaces online that are not governed by the same issues. I wish that she were going to include more about the GLBT groups and how they are represented online, which is one of the most misrepresented and misunderstood groups in my opinion.
Josh’s thesis is on Internet Activism as a Necessary Tool for Physical Activism in the Real World. One of the examples that Josh gave was WTO “Battle In Seattle” that had a negative impact on the residence in my neighborhood because of police discrimination and abuses of power. Maybe Josh could mention how Internet Activism was necessary for some to physically avoid police abuse so that they could get home without being knocked down by fire hoses in the streets.
Neil’s paper is on the Advantages of Smart Phones: Narrowing the Digital Divide. He mentioned that the Internet is becoming more available in underdeveloped countries and our dependency on cell phones. I am glad to hear this technology is being used in places like the African continent to combat famine.
