Friday, May 07, 2004
I forgot to add my links to my final assignment. I have to say meghan made some very good points regarding the use of language and audio and its importance as the main elements of the program. Emily also gives some good advice concerning the time factor; groups need to allot themselves enough time to properly conduct their interviews, editing, etc.
For this final assignment we have been asked to look back on what we have learned thus far in combination with our personal experiences in communications, to properly create an oral narrative for radio or the information superhighway. I have thought hard about the essentials for this kind of work by reflecting back on my group’s experience. The first few that came to mind were communication among contributors, sense of creativity, awareness of popular issues, and a sufficient amount of knowledge of what is needed for proper audio quality and impeccable editing quality. The purpose of a radio show is, in essence, to bring the same level of entertainment and service to people, that say a television would. The element not playing a role with radio is the visual element. So, to compensate for what some audiences might get from the visual aspects of the program, everything having to do with audio quality, subject matter, and the organization of the material is imperative.
Setting out to complete this assignment, the first thing to decide on was the subject matter. Due to the fact that the subject had to be (at least should have been) geared towards Denison students and topics concerning the Denison campus, this limited our options but at the same time increased our abilities to be creative. College life, campuses, and student bodies breed juicy and inviting topics of discussion; these topics are also more or less contemporary and popular providing an enticing element to the audiences. Another point to mention here regarding the topics of our radio segments is to be aware of the audience. It’s interesting to see the topics of discussion that college students are interested in. Our group decided on a subject matter that is quite controversial among college campuses: student-professor (sexual) relationships.
This topic embodied a few key elements that were sure to get some attention. First of all sex these days, no matter how you slice it, is controversial. Your either discriminated against if you are gay, looked down upon to be heterosexual and alone, a whore if your single and just “having fun”, and especially if…you are sleeping with your professor; God forbid if two adults (regardless if one is 21 and the other 45) take a liking to each other in a mature and privileged environment such as the college campus. This interview topic proved itself to be one of interesting feedback, brutal honesty, and the sexually charged mindsets of college students. It was then our job to create some pinpoint questions in which we would structure our interviews. I thought it would be a good idea to get a general consensus as to the dynamic between Denison professors and their respective students; to get an idea of the relationships that existed on the hill would be a good starting point. I think that a solid background from which detailed stories and events have come, are a helpful way to properly structure the radio program.
The second set of questions we put together were more detailed and to the point. We wanted honest answers, answers that were going to catch the listener’s attention. We asked about their secondary school days and the teachers they may or may not have ever “been attracted to”; right away cheeks turned bright red. I think something I learned was to ask very open-ended questions; I didn’t ever want to give the person a chance to just say “yes” or “no”. To ensure this meant making the person comfortable with what they were being asked. Keep in mind, all throughout this process of interviewing we had to be aware of our audio recording techniques and our equipment; there was an instance when I first started interviewing and I did not hold the microphone properly to the direction of the person’s voice. All I had recorded was background, muffled noise (I learned from that mistake).
As this process continued I began to realize how important it was to have enticing questions, questions that caught the person’s attention was they were asked. Thought provoking questions plus a comfortable interviewee helped to raise the quality of our interviews. For example, I saved some of the “fun” questions for my roommate and girlfriends to answer. In a social environment, which we are usually in, they were relaxed and enjoyed the questions. They were open and honest and felt obliged to indulge me in their opinions.
As people told stories of teachers they had “crushes” on in high school or even elementary school, it was important to get the entire story. As we read in our radios show comic book, is important to have structure to your interview, as the comic said “a sequence of actions where someone says “this happened then this happened then this happened””. In our case, it was interesting to ask people’s opinions of student-professor relationships and then the reasons leading then up to their opinions. It showed a lot about who they were as a person and maybe what kind of background morals and lifestyles they had. I also learned from the experience and the comic that it wasn’t always necessary to follow a strict set of questions; being restrained might have prevented me from getting the best, most candid material.
As of right now, my group has begun to edit our material. There are many different things that go into proper editing. In my opinion as well as what was discussed in our comic, all the material you end up with can seem a bit overwhelming at first. How will you decided what pieces to use? What if in the end you realize that none of it fits with anything and seems choppy? Not to worry, I have decided to take advice from our radio guide comic book. They advise to go back and listen to your material and pick out your favorite parts; soon you will have a downsized version of what you started with and it’s what you really want. Of course quality audio is essential and music. I took it upon myself to get a little creative and select songs that I thought were appropriate for our subject. Songs like “I Want Your Sex” by George Michaels and “If Your Mother Only Knew” by Rhazel. I thought it could be fun to play around with a few different songs from different generations, symbolizing the age differences that most likely occur in student-professor relationships. As Dr. Gilbert has told us, music plays a very important part in putting a program together. Music can often times set the mood for an upcoming segment or tastefully close out a humorous cut. Music also sets the backdrop for the scene in which the interview is taking place. For example in a clip from “This American Life”, a man was talking at a party about whether or not he would want to be able to fly or be invisible. There was fun, hoping bar music in the background that added to his humorous remarks. All in all subject matter, music, audio quality, and proper editing are what is going to pull this all together.
In conclusion, if I was to give advice as to how to create a radio/web show I would have to say that a solid goal/vision is needed. Unless the subject is something you truly feel interested in and passionate about, it won’t end up being anything worth listening to. Catchy subject matter and issues that the interviewer is interested in is what gets attention from the audience. Also, be organized and have superb communication among your group members; no one likes feeling like they are carrying the load plus the final product won’t be a proper representation of all members. And finally, have fun with what you’re doing. It’s not everyday that you get to screw around with awesome equipment and make your own show about whatever you want! Be mature about what you are doing and put effort into it, that’s the only way you will reap the benefits.
Setting out to complete this assignment, the first thing to decide on was the subject matter. Due to the fact that the subject had to be (at least should have been) geared towards Denison students and topics concerning the Denison campus, this limited our options but at the same time increased our abilities to be creative. College life, campuses, and student bodies breed juicy and inviting topics of discussion; these topics are also more or less contemporary and popular providing an enticing element to the audiences. Another point to mention here regarding the topics of our radio segments is to be aware of the audience. It’s interesting to see the topics of discussion that college students are interested in. Our group decided on a subject matter that is quite controversial among college campuses: student-professor (sexual) relationships.
This topic embodied a few key elements that were sure to get some attention. First of all sex these days, no matter how you slice it, is controversial. Your either discriminated against if you are gay, looked down upon to be heterosexual and alone, a whore if your single and just “having fun”, and especially if…you are sleeping with your professor; God forbid if two adults (regardless if one is 21 and the other 45) take a liking to each other in a mature and privileged environment such as the college campus. This interview topic proved itself to be one of interesting feedback, brutal honesty, and the sexually charged mindsets of college students. It was then our job to create some pinpoint questions in which we would structure our interviews. I thought it would be a good idea to get a general consensus as to the dynamic between Denison professors and their respective students; to get an idea of the relationships that existed on the hill would be a good starting point. I think that a solid background from which detailed stories and events have come, are a helpful way to properly structure the radio program.
The second set of questions we put together were more detailed and to the point. We wanted honest answers, answers that were going to catch the listener’s attention. We asked about their secondary school days and the teachers they may or may not have ever “been attracted to”; right away cheeks turned bright red. I think something I learned was to ask very open-ended questions; I didn’t ever want to give the person a chance to just say “yes” or “no”. To ensure this meant making the person comfortable with what they were being asked. Keep in mind, all throughout this process of interviewing we had to be aware of our audio recording techniques and our equipment; there was an instance when I first started interviewing and I did not hold the microphone properly to the direction of the person’s voice. All I had recorded was background, muffled noise (I learned from that mistake).
As this process continued I began to realize how important it was to have enticing questions, questions that caught the person’s attention was they were asked. Thought provoking questions plus a comfortable interviewee helped to raise the quality of our interviews. For example, I saved some of the “fun” questions for my roommate and girlfriends to answer. In a social environment, which we are usually in, they were relaxed and enjoyed the questions. They were open and honest and felt obliged to indulge me in their opinions.
As people told stories of teachers they had “crushes” on in high school or even elementary school, it was important to get the entire story. As we read in our radios show comic book, is important to have structure to your interview, as the comic said “a sequence of actions where someone says “this happened then this happened then this happened””. In our case, it was interesting to ask people’s opinions of student-professor relationships and then the reasons leading then up to their opinions. It showed a lot about who they were as a person and maybe what kind of background morals and lifestyles they had. I also learned from the experience and the comic that it wasn’t always necessary to follow a strict set of questions; being restrained might have prevented me from getting the best, most candid material.
As of right now, my group has begun to edit our material. There are many different things that go into proper editing. In my opinion as well as what was discussed in our comic, all the material you end up with can seem a bit overwhelming at first. How will you decided what pieces to use? What if in the end you realize that none of it fits with anything and seems choppy? Not to worry, I have decided to take advice from our radio guide comic book. They advise to go back and listen to your material and pick out your favorite parts; soon you will have a downsized version of what you started with and it’s what you really want. Of course quality audio is essential and music. I took it upon myself to get a little creative and select songs that I thought were appropriate for our subject. Songs like “I Want Your Sex” by George Michaels and “If Your Mother Only Knew” by Rhazel. I thought it could be fun to play around with a few different songs from different generations, symbolizing the age differences that most likely occur in student-professor relationships. As Dr. Gilbert has told us, music plays a very important part in putting a program together. Music can often times set the mood for an upcoming segment or tastefully close out a humorous cut. Music also sets the backdrop for the scene in which the interview is taking place. For example in a clip from “This American Life”, a man was talking at a party about whether or not he would want to be able to fly or be invisible. There was fun, hoping bar music in the background that added to his humorous remarks. All in all subject matter, music, audio quality, and proper editing are what is going to pull this all together.
In conclusion, if I was to give advice as to how to create a radio/web show I would have to say that a solid goal/vision is needed. Unless the subject is something you truly feel interested in and passionate about, it won’t end up being anything worth listening to. Catchy subject matter and issues that the interviewer is interested in is what gets attention from the audience. Also, be organized and have superb communication among your group members; no one likes feeling like they are carrying the load plus the final product won’t be a proper representation of all members. And finally, have fun with what you’re doing. It’s not everyday that you get to screw around with awesome equipment and make your own show about whatever you want! Be mature about what you are doing and put effort into it, that’s the only way you will reap the benefits.
I would like to comment on how beautiful the weather was on Thursday. Considering its finals time, that definitley lifted my spirits. Everyday, more and more it hits me that this year is practically over. To Darren, Zechman, Monty, Shawn, Augie, and all the sunset D guys, congratulations on your upcoming graduation...Goodluck with finals everyone
So its 7 am, haven't slept and I feel awful. I will never be one of those people who can just stay up all night whenever and expect to function normally...the things I do for astronomy. My final is in an hour and of course I am nervous. I practically make myself sick before finals thats how nervous I get. Good luck to Meghan who also has astronomy, Im sure we'll do fine...
Tuesday, May 04, 2004
Its 2am, I'm in Fellows and it is hot as hell in here. Why is it that one of the places used the most by students, especially during finals, is one of the most uncomfortable places to work? Anyway, my first exam is tommorow so I am kinda nervous. Its for Spanish because this school likes to inconvenience students and force them to take a language. I think it is ridiculous. Other than that I am feeling pretty good about this week. Its almost like I want it to go on so I can have more time to study but at the smae time I wish it would speed up so it would be over... Only a few more days and then my sophomore year is finished-scary thought. Only two more years... good luck to all those graduating, I can only imagine how anxious and excited you guys must be these days...
Monday, May 03, 2004
What a great Monday. I did really well on an Astronomy exam which has brought a lot of relief to my week- I thought I was going to have to start from scratch in preparing for my final; even though Darren is doing very well in Astronomy, if he needs help, I would be happy to. This week is going to be very unpleasant as I am sure it will be for a lot of us. I am just hoping I get through it, I am really not into doing work anymore.
I can't stop thinking about summer which is not helping with my concentration for finals...
Good luck on everyone's radio shows...
I can't stop thinking about summer which is not helping with my concentration for finals...
Good luck on everyone's radio shows...
Sunday, May 02, 2004
It was a pretty quiet weekend for me. Like a lot of people, towards the end of the the week I caught a bit of cold- it sucked. meghan also had a terrible cold. But we are both better now and are getting ready for what will be one of the worst weeks ever-FINALS!!!
Hope everyone had a nice weekend, see you all in class.
Hope everyone had a nice weekend, see you all in class.
Friday, April 30, 2004
Today was an extremely productive day,I actually got a lot work done. I was tempted to pull an all nighter but I backed out. Fellows just wasn't as appealing as it usually is. Today's weather was beautiful so I managed to get quite a bit of work done outside which was nice for a change. Its a shame class was cancelled, see you all on Monday.
Tuesday, April 27, 2004
So today it really hit me that this year is over and summer is here! I have to say I am very excited. This summer I will be living on Nantucket with the greatest girl of all time, Kate Davis Evans. Kate, also known as Polly Pocket, is one of the funniest people you will ever meet. She has rosy cheeks and short brown hair and you can usually recongnize her in her white vest.
Kate and I are living in a house with about 5 or 6 other people and we are working in The Juice Bar, a really popular ice cream shop on the island. I am really looking forward to it because Nantucket is such a beautiful place.
Unfortunatley for Kate (but good for me), she will have to say goodbye to her hamster, Doody. There is no way that thing is coming anywhere near me, it stinks and probably carries around tons of bacteria. Sorry, Kate you know how I feel about rodents. I do think it is kind of cute, I'll give it that much.
So if you are going to be on Nantucket, definitley look us up, its going to be an awesome summer!!!
Kate and I are living in a house with about 5 or 6 other people and we are working in The Juice Bar, a really popular ice cream shop on the island. I am really looking forward to it because Nantucket is such a beautiful place.
Unfortunatley for Kate (but good for me), she will have to say goodbye to her hamster, Doody. There is no way that thing is coming anywhere near me, it stinks and probably carries around tons of bacteria. Sorry, Kate you know how I feel about rodents. I do think it is kind of cute, I'll give it that much.
So if you are going to be on Nantucket, definitley look us up, its going to be an awesome summer!!!
Ohio weather sucks, well maybe just this damn hill that Denison is on sucks cause it gets so much wind. I don't really get pissed about a lot of stuff but the wind today was truly pissing me off. I couldn't take it; I found myself literally cursing at the wind as I walked to the library. Why does it have to be so aggressive. Its like it is your own personal, invisible bully that follows you wherever you go, pushing you around and making you miserable.
Ok enough complaining, at least the sun is out. That makes me happy.
Ok enough complaining, at least the sun is out. That makes me happy.
Monday, April 26, 2004
Here is my attempt to make up for the few blogs I have missed. Its not that I purposely don't do them its just that when I come home from the library and get ready for bed( which is when I usually do my blogs) I just forget and pass out. I am truly apologetic. To be honest, I kinda think that what I have to say isn't too interesting so I never really remember to blog about it.
But, to humor myself, and you Gilbert, I'll try.
I have a very acclectic group of friends. We are all very different from each other yet similar in many ways too. We are alike in that we are friendly and compassionate towards others and love to have a good time. Some of my friends are humorous, others not as much. Some are somewhat quiet, others make it a point to be heard. All in all, we are a very interesting group a girls and I am lucky to have them as friends.
Seeing how this blog is going I think for my next few I will tell a few stories of the adventures my friends and I have gotten oursleves into this past year. With the end of our sophomore year approaching, there is much too tell. Stay tuned.
But, to humor myself, and you Gilbert, I'll try.
I have a very acclectic group of friends. We are all very different from each other yet similar in many ways too. We are alike in that we are friendly and compassionate towards others and love to have a good time. Some of my friends are humorous, others not as much. Some are somewhat quiet, others make it a point to be heard. All in all, we are a very interesting group a girls and I am lucky to have them as friends.
Seeing how this blog is going I think for my next few I will tell a few stories of the adventures my friends and I have gotten oursleves into this past year. With the end of our sophomore year approaching, there is much too tell. Stay tuned.
Ok so after Gilbet's brutally honest class today, ( all about his grading and how he can't give out A's and if you really want the A you're gonna have to really want it...) I have decided that I am going to be one of those poeple who REALLY wants the A and who also REALLY NEEDS the A.
To be honest I have had a tough time keeping up in this class- ironically because Gilbert barely asks much of us. Anyway, I would really like to finish strongly but I am having a hard time. I am not good with comuter software programs to make radio show, I get nervous interviewing people, I don't think our groups toipc is that interesting, AND, I have a shit load of work. This combination makes for a very stressed Caroline in the City.
With that I have set out to complete this class with flying colors. I may not have a great radio show but I will try my best and see what happens. To compensate I will make up for missed blogs, and finally try for the 75,000th time to link to another person's blog.
So Gilbert I hope this promise is worth something to you, I definitley need your help.
See you all on Friday with very, very rough material from our project.
To be honest I have had a tough time keeping up in this class- ironically because Gilbert barely asks much of us. Anyway, I would really like to finish strongly but I am having a hard time. I am not good with comuter software programs to make radio show, I get nervous interviewing people, I don't think our groups toipc is that interesting, AND, I have a shit load of work. This combination makes for a very stressed Caroline in the City.
With that I have set out to complete this class with flying colors. I may not have a great radio show but I will try my best and see what happens. To compensate I will make up for missed blogs, and finally try for the 75,000th time to link to another person's blog.
So Gilbert I hope this promise is worth something to you, I definitley need your help.
See you all on Friday with very, very rough material from our project.
Ok so after Gilbet's brutally honest class today, ( all about his grading and how he can't give out A's and if you really want the A you're gonna have to really want it...) I have decided that I am going to be one of those poeple who REALLY wants the A and who also REALLY NEEDS the A.
To be honest I have had a tough time keeping up in this class- ironically because Gilbert barely asks much of us. Anyway, I would really like to finish strongly but I am having a hard time. I am not good with comuter software programs to make radio show, I get nervous interviewing people, I don't think our groups toipc is that interesting, AND, I have a shit load of work. This combination makes for a very stressed Caroline in the City.
With that I have set out to complete this class with flying colors. I may not have a great radio show but I will try my best and see what happens. To compensate I will make up for missed blogs, and finally try for the 75,000th time to link to another person's blog.
So Gilbert I hope this promise is worth something to you, I definitley need your help.
See you all on Friday with very, very rough material from our project.
To be honest I have had a tough time keeping up in this class- ironically because Gilbert barely asks much of us. Anyway, I would really like to finish strongly but I am having a hard time. I am not good with comuter software programs to make radio show, I get nervous interviewing people, I don't think our groups toipc is that interesting, AND, I have a shit load of work. This combination makes for a very stressed Caroline in the City.
With that I have set out to complete this class with flying colors. I may not have a great radio show but I will try my best and see what happens. To compensate I will make up for missed blogs, and finally try for the 75,000th time to link to another person's blog.
So Gilbert I hope this promise is worth something to you, I definitley need your help.
See you all on Friday with very, very rough material from our project.
