College Class

MythBusters

http://dsc.discovery.com/tv/mythbusters/

§  What are the stated mission, values and goals of the organization?  (These might be stated directly in the organization's materials or you may have to determine this for yourself.)

The mission and goal of Mythbusters is to prove that popular myths are fact or fiction, using scientific methods as research and experimentation.

§  What kind of claims or ideas does the organization investigate?

Mythbusters investigates popular urban myths such as the reality of blowing up a propane tank with pistol shots like James Bond has done . As well as if it is possible to walk in a straight line while blindfolded and if a fender bender will set off explosives. One thing to take into consideration is that Mythbusters is a scientific methods based organization. They do not attempt to prove any type of supernatural or paranormal myths.

§  Is there a standardize approach to investigating claims that the group follows?  Or is each problem tackled in a different way?

The approach is unique in the fact that the differences in the team’s personalities lead them to look at the challenge in different ways.  Overall each team uses a healthy amount of critical thinking to plan out the best way to implement the strategy that they have chosen. When using critical thinking there are often times when each member or teammate may not agree one hundred percent or prefer a different method of approach. I think that the Mythbuster teams work together well in order to systematically test their theories. By asking series of questions and even testing the theory twice in some cases or adding more variables to the mix to prove the theory in even greater detail. The innovation of the team is a huge factor when implementing their strategies

§  How does the organization present and promote critical thinking?

By investigating myths that the general public may not even think to question, Mythbusters is using critical thinking by questioning these issues. They are then taking the steps needed to investigate and when possible recreate the situation. By taking these steps Mythbusters is not only implementing critical thinking they are backing it up with facts. Mythbusters use critical thinking to question the myths they want to test, then by researching and planning, followed by strong critical thinking when it comes to actually implementing the testing. The teams on Mythbuster demonstrate their critical thinking by walking the audience through the steps they are taking during the testing process. They don’t simply say we did this and it proved that. They back up their actions with facts and prove it through their actions. By giving the reasons and facts they are making their theory more credible and believable.

§  Does the fact that information is presented via an element of popular culture affect the questions being asked, the investigation or the results?  In other words, is rigorous critical thinking being compromised by the needs to appeal to a large audience?

Mythbusters is a popular TV program that is viewed by many people interested to know if popular myths can be proven right or proven wrong. TV shows are produced to meet the wants and expectations of the audience, so I do feel that there is some added drama to appeal to the viewers. The relationship between the team has a certain dynamic that serves as a type of backdrop to the overall mission of the show. By allowing the audience to be drawn in to the team’s relationship it creates a more interesting show, and allows views to feel a connection to the team.

I was able to find an interesting interview with co hosts Jaime Hyneman and Adam Savage. http://www.hulu.com/watch/155053/foratv-culture-mythbusters-jaime-hyneman-and-adam-savage

In the interview they discuss what actually happens on set behind the scenes. It was interesting to learn from the interview that the scenes are for the most part genuine depictions of what is really happening at the time. While the research and planning can take years, the actual filming takes place in about a week’s time. The creative camera work, such as the high speed shots, cater to the audiences, and create a wow factor when watching the show. Editing is expected in a TV show, especially when there are action type scenes. Based on the type of testing they do, and the facts they give to lead up to their tests, it would seem as though the integrity of the tests and the critical thinking abilities are kept intact. The fact that Mythbusters are willing to prove a myth right or wrong, even if the time and research shows that the myth is fictional, proves that critical thinking is taking place. 

My Tweeps

Since I am pursuing my degree in business management I chose to follow Stephen Covey. As an internationally respected leadership authority, organizational consultant, and author, his advice has given insight to millions and to me. He has written several books, the most popular being the 7 habits of highly effective people. His education at Harvard backs up his accreditation.  I think he is a great example of a leader and gives straight forward advice that is usable. Stephan Covey has dedicated his life to demonstrating how every person can truly control their destiny with profound, yet straightforward guidance. I’ve had the chance to watch some of his presentations on video and discuss some of his techniques and theories in several of my business classes and was impressed at the content. I also respect the fact that Mr. Covey is willing to implement his strategies in schools and during his speaking conferences. I would consider Mr. Covey an influential man in the business world. His knowledge has been instrumental in helping many business leaders, from managers to CEO’s. In addition to this Stephan Covey is also the vice president of Franklin Covey. This organization focuses on training and developing leadership within companies through workshops and specialized training. With Franklin Covey there is also an opportunity to become a trainer and become certified by Franklin Covey. I noticed that Stephan Covey has many wonderful quotes on twitter that I find interesting and thought provoking. I hope to keep learning from Stephan Covey. I have included links to Stephan Coveys websites and also an interview link that I found interesting. 
http://www.franklincovey.com/
https://www.stephencovey.com/

http://www.impactfactory.com/p/leadership_skills_training_development/friends_1550-1106-61373.html

I also chose to follow the Humane Society. While it is an organization, not a person I do feel that the Humane Society is an expert at rescuing animals and adopting them into their forever homes.  I currently volunteer at the Yavapai Humane Society and I have been very impressed with the organization.  When I first started volunteering I was unsure what to expect. I only knew the basics about the organization, after volunteering I started learning more about the mission of the Humane Society. They are one of the largest animal rescue organizations in the U.S and they are backed by over 11 million supporters.

There has been some negative media about the HSUS. Such as the euthanasia rate and how that conflicts with the mission of the organization. I have personally meet people who are against the HSUS because of the fact that they do any euthanasia at all. I used to be one of those people until I started volunteering. My love for animals compelled me to volunteer just to spend time with the animals. I learned that the Yavapai Humane Society is in the top five in the state with highest no kill rate. I have included the link to the Yavapai Humane Society website, you will notice on the home page they have listed the no kill percent is at 95%. They average about 50 adoptions per week, which is impressive for the population in the tri-city area. The volunteers and staff have such a passion and love for the animals and adopting them to their forever homes. I am proud to be a part of the Humane Society and am excited to learn more about them by following them on twitter. http://www.yavapaihumane.org/

Advertising Map

The first link is for the picture
https://www.yc.edu/v4content/college-honors-program/docs/CHPFlyerOpenings_3.pdf


The second link is for the Google map 
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=216611531538915549201.0004b0d7b3755305d04c0&msa=0&ll=34.547534,-112.453147&spn=0.004083,0.009645

Subculture Fashion

                                                          Harley Davidson

The biker brand is an extremely popular aspect of our culture and is very present in our society. At any given time you can see a Harley Davidson bike zooming down the streets with the rider’s proudly displaying their Harley Davidson gear. If you check out the Harley Davidson website http://www.harleydavidson.com/en_US/Content/Pages/home.html?locale=en_US&bmLocale=en_US you can see the wide variety of merchandise that is available for purchase. From leather vests to jewelry, and gifts, there is no lack of options. As you can see from my glog there is a wide variety of styles available. From men, woman, children and even pets, the brand reaches far.

The fashion of the Harley Davidson gear is a good representation of what the brand stands for. Ask anyone what they think of when you say Harley rider, and they will most likely say, leather, tattoos, and tough. Although this stereotype doesn’t fit every single Harley rider on the roads, it is an accurate description of the brand.

Popular culture tells us that Harley Davidson is a cool, tough image that people are willing to dive into. A motorcycle, leather and some tattoos qualify someone as part of an exclusive group or club. There is a brotherhood to the culture. This can be signified through vest patches or group names.

Many Harley Davidson riders are Harley Davidson riders for life. The following link has information about the market trends for Harley Davidson. You will notice that the information confirms the popularity of the brand as well as the forecast of increased sales in both the U.S as well as international sales.

http://seekingalpha.com/article/281976-harley-davidson-riding-on-international-growth-and-new-riders

I have also created a glog that expresses the different aspects of the subculture and how they are represented
http://rebekah101.edu.glogster.com/harley-davidson-/

Magazine Audience's

Magazine Audience's

                   

http://www.allure.com/

I choose Allure for my magazine. The primary focus of the magazine is beauty and fashion.  The cover of the April edition magazine features current pop star Nicki Minaj. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicki_Minaj the cover of the magazine also features several captions for article in the magazine, such as Anti-Aging Surprises, Good-Mood manicures, Drop 5 years in 5 Minutes, and lush hair. The magazine is very colorful, from the cover page to the contents. I would say the magazine is targeted towards 20's and 30's age range. While flipping through the magazine I was met with a variety of topics. I admit almost all were based on beauty products or fashion. I did however find some interesting articles that were about self-improvement.

Now a lot of people could look at the cover of the magazine and make a snap judgment that it’s just another fashion magazine that tells you how to look and dress and how to mold yourself into a version of the latest celebrity. I admit to thinking the same thoughts. I was surprised when flipping through the magazine that there were hardly any pictures or stories about celebrities except the cover story on Nicki Minaj.  The articles consisted mostly of the lasted nail styles (black polish is back in) and the latest fashion (animal print is still in) there was a large focus on how to look younger and how to improve your skin. Perhaps it was just this issue.

To be honest this was the first time I had read the magazine. And I was refreshed. It had a rather wholesome appeal to it (I can only speak for the April issue) and wasn’t bogged down by innuendo, or celebrity media. Allure was a light easy read. The link above allows you to access the website which is in a similar format as the magazine. While looking through the magazine I asked myself the following questions:

·         What is the overall overt message(s) that the magazine conveys?  In other words, what does the magazine tell its readers directly about who they should be and what they should do and/or own?

The overall message was about beauty and fashion and how to improve in those particular areas. The focus was on hair, skin and nails

·         What values are being expressed by the elements of the magazine? In what ways are those values expressed? (For instance what does it say if all the people in the magazine illustrations are slim and beautiful?)

The value of the magazine is based on the outward appearance, basically looking younger and trendier. There was however some articles about personal growth that expounded on the benefits of discipline and how it can benefit your lifestyle.

·          Do the implied values complement or conflict with the overt message? In what ways?

The articles about personal growth complimented the overall message of beauty and fashion. It was a reflection that inner beauty is still important. However the main point of the magazine is to improve one’s appearance, the values stated by the magazine are just that. There is a straightforward message that the magazine is conveying, and there isn’t room for much confusion.

Pop Music

Eric Church 

  

http://ericchurch.com/

I've been a fan of Eric Church for a while now so I've decided to check out his website and see how it reflects who he is as an artist. The first thing I noticed when I clicked on the site was a slide show of pictures of Eric. The pictures showed Eric with his guitar as well as several pictures from his latest album and promotion for his latest tour. The pictures are very professionally taken and of good quality. They do have a fun, party, and rock vibe such as Eric yelling into a microphone. When you scroll down on the home page there is a list of all of Eric’s CDs. A list of the songs from his latest CD “Chief” is posted along with an option to buy the CD or download it form itunes. There is also a column on the right hand corner of the home page with media updates, such as special events or appearances that Eric will be doing. There is also a link that allows fans to buy VIP concert tickets and view Eric’s latest music video.  The home page serves as kind of a snap shot of the detailed information you can find on the site.  

I had a chance to see Eric Church in concert, and I can say from experience that the pictures are an accurate description of the energy Eric has on stage. His performance is very country rock and very energetic. The crowds loved his crazy energy and his music. He is a great performer as well as a talented artist.

The website also features a several tabs such as a news tab that includes information about promotional events and updates. There is also a tour tab that lets you view current tour dates and let you search for dates in your city and state. There is an “about” tab that gives details about the inspiration behind Eric’s latest cd. Another tab is listed titled “Church Choir” which is a forum for dedicated fans to blog and discuss concert dates and questions. The “media” tab features music, videos, and pictures. Last but not least, there is a “store” tab that features a variety of merchandise.

There is a sense of branding to the website. Everything revolves around Eric’s latest CD “Chief” there is even a badge emblem at the lower left hand corner that appears on every page of the website. When clicked on it takes you directly to the Eric church merchandise store, and offers deals on special bundles, such as a tee shirt and cd combination at a reasonable price. There is also a heavy advertisement to join the “Church Choir” to receive special promotions. A special tee shirt is even available exclusively to the church choir.

I feel that Eric Church’s website is an accurate description of who Eric is as an artist. There is a depth that is reflected in his lyrics and music, as well as an upbeat country feel about the website as well. He attracts a loyal fan base and keeps reeling new fans in. Ive included the link to Eric Church's website so everyone can check it out!

movie poster comparison

Oceans 11 Movie Poster Comparison

Credits:

The original Ocean's 11 was a 1960 heist film directed by Lewis Milestone and starring five Rat Packers: Peter Lawford, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Jr., and Joey Bishop.

A remake, directed by Steven Soderbergh, starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Andy García and Julia Roberts (among others) was released in 2001, followed by a pair of sequels

Plots:

The plots of both movies are similar in the fact that a team joined together plans to rob several casinos in one night
Here are some great links with details about both the original and remake. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0240772/         http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0054135/

Comparison:

The movie posters are very different in format and each poster is dramatic in its own way. The original movie poster shows the four leading men as well as the leading lady in a close up view of the characters, focusing mainly on their faces and expressions. The original movie poster fit with the standard model for the popular movies in the 1960s. Featuring bold letters as well as listing the actor and actresses names under the characters images.  The title of the movie is actually listed in the lower right hand corner, instead of the top of the poster. The phrase “The Big One!” is actually listed at the top center of the poster. I was first drawn to the actor and actresses pictures then started to scan the poster for the movie title, which is printed in what could be considered small font for a title.

The remake movie poster features the actors and actresses names in a smaller font at the bottom of the poster, below the names. The remake poster doesn’t actually show any of the actor’s faces or bodies, just shadowed images of their legs against a white background. The focus is drawn towards the dominating 11 centered on the poster. Notice how the poster doesn’t even specify the full title of the movie. Perhaps the original movie was such a success that the number 11 and the actor’s names was enough of a forecaster of the content. The remake poster is definitely geared towards a modern appeal. It even sparks an interest and curiosity for movie goers to want to know more about the movie. What exactly is it about?

 Each poster features a catchy saying from the movies. The original poster displays the phrase “Nobody would have dared it because nobody else would have had the nerve! Just Danny Ocean and his 11 pals-the crazy night they blew all the lights in Las Vegas!” The Remake poster displays the saying “Are you in or out?”

 After studying the two movie posters I would say that the creator of both movies were very confident in the names of the actors to entice viewers to see the movies. The main focus on both posters is the actual actresses and actors. Not necessarily the plot or the production studios. Both movies feature the biggest names in Hollywood at both particular times.  They are similar in the marketing of the actors and actresses as well as including the catchy phrases, but the similarity stops there. Each poster conveys a strong message that fits with the time era each movie was produced in. I think it is interesting to see that movie poster’s change with society and trends.  

Fads and Trends

Fads:

Skinny Jeans 

Skinny jeans are very in right now. Men and Women have added the trendy skinny jeans to their wardrobe I feel this is a fad because it’s very wide spread and a lot of people are now wearing skinny jeans. I think that our current culture is bringing back fashion trends from the 80s and they are becoming current fads for us. Skinny jeans remind me of the fad not so long ago of wearing wide leg pants or bell bottoms. I think that fashion will continue to draw from generations before us as well as add new fashion fads.http://www.classiccamera.org/skinny-jeans%C2%AE-%E2%80%93-fashion-fad-or-flop/

The Kardashians

Reality TV is very popular right now and becoming more and more, wide spread. Leaders of this genre become current style icons and are the current fad. Take the Kardashians for example. Everyone has heard of them, and knows who they are regardless if they like their show or not (I do not) they are a great example of a fad. Reality TV shows have a short lifespan no matter how popular they are. Can you think of a TV show that lasted more seasons then you can count on your hands? The Kardashians have an influence on our society in how it is acceptable to act or dress. I feel that this fad will soon be replaced by the next big hit in Hollywood. 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keeping_Up_with_the_Kardashians

Animal Hats

Randomly spotted on children and young adults, the animal hat fad has started. Fuzzy hats with animal faces from tigers to puppies with often two long strings on either side representing animal arms or paws. Although it is a unique take on fashion I feel that this style is a fad not a trend because the expected lifespan of this style is assuredly short. Children may think it is cute for the moment but will in time outgrow the fashion statement. The fad is targeted towards the younger consumers who often change their minds regarding fashion and what is currently in. 

http://kimchisoul.wordpress.com/2011/03/07/london-goes-wild-for-animal-hats/

Fashion Boots

In many styles, styles and textures, boots have become a current hit. We used to think of boots as a winter staple, simply designed to keep our feet warm and toasty from the elements. The sacrifice of designs was accepted at the gain of comfort and protection. Today’s boots are being marketed with fashion first, comfort later. Boots are often worn over the jeans to accentuate the boots and in a sense be a fashion accessory.

I feel that this is a fad not a trend because in the fashion world shoes styles come and go and rarely dominate the market. 

http://www.seventeen.com/fashion/tips/winter-boots-flipbook

Bright Hair Colors

Bold streaks of unconventional colors such as florescent blue or neon pink began as a statement of nonconformance. These bold colors are often a fashion statement in the punk rock genre. Over the years what was once seen as a rebellious statement is now being subtly adopted by celebrities and society. A small streak of vivid color or even complete all over dye can be seen on youths as well as adults. It was once unheard of to have pink or purple hair now it is considered a fashion dare. This is a fad due to the ever changing guidelines of fashion and what is currently in. 

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/21/fashion/once-shocking-hair-in-bright-colors-turns-conservative.html

Trends:

Smart phones 

Cell phone use has become an unspoken way of life. Smart Phones are a trend that is increasing every day. I feel this is a trend because the amounts of people who have smart phones are increasing. Almost everyone I know has one or intends to get one. Business executives rely on smartphones to communicate with other executives and make deals. Parents can now use the GPS feature to track their children and young adults use smartphones to connect with friends and update their facebook profiles. The technology age that we live in will only create and provide more high tech and advanced smart phones.

http://www.squidoo.com/smart-phones-ruin-society

Social Networking

Social networking has become a huge trend. Almost everyone had a Facebook account and uses it to find and communicate with friends and family. The business industry has been using Linkend more and more. Twitter is a hit with celebrities and society. As far as the specific types of social networking I feel that that may change in the future. Facebook has remained center stage, but with technology it may be replaced with a new version of social networking. Websites such as myspace were once the popular place to be and now facebook is. I think that so many people rely on social networking for business and personal use that it will remain a steady trend.

http://www.pcworld.com/article/162719/how_social_networking_has_changed_society.html

Economically Friendly Cars 

The recent lean towards economically friendly cars is becoming more common. With gas prices high and the economy being weak, it’s natural for consumers to want to cut costs or save money. With daily commutes to work and school one of the first places consumers look to save money is in commuting expenses. While it can be argued that economically friendly car are higher priced and in the long run the consumer would not save that much money on fuel. There is always the class of consumers who can afford it and there is also a consumer who places a high amount of value on being “green” the trend has started and I feel that in time we will see more eco boost engines and higher mile per gallon stats. The Automobile industry is marketing these qualities and I feel they will continue to deliver. 

http://www.toyota.com/prius-hybrid/

Internet Based Businesses 

Internet based businesses are becoming more and more common. With low cost start up fees and easy accessibility internet based business are spreading like wildfire. I keep hearing young entrepreneurs telling me that they have already or hope to soon start an internet based business. The advantages are definitely a plus and I can see why it is catching on. Giants like amazon.com are dominating the online world. How many times have you gone to amazon.com to buy a textbook or a product that was recommended to you? I know I have. With competitive prices and no sales tax, (although I hear that will change …) this a good example of the age we live in and the rate that internet based businesses are increasing. It creates a huge competitive edge for brick and mortar businesses to compete with. The convenience of shopping at with a few clicks from the comfort of your homes makes it a first stop for many.  I feel this is a trend because of the technology age that we live in.
http://www.amazon.com/                                                      
 http://www.active-domain.com/internet-business/internet-based-business.htm

Online Education 

There is a huge movement to online classes and learning. More and more classes and degrees are offered online. The convenience of online classes appeals to young student as well as working adults who are returning to college. There are even arguments that online college will someday replace all in person classes (I hope not!) There is a benefit to teachers as well as students, teachers who are instructing several courses at once may find it easier to juggle the load of responsibilities and multi-task the work load. I feel that this trend will continue to develop and remain a popular choice over time. 

http://www.onlinecolleges.net/

Just created my Glog. It was super fun! Here is the link http://rebekah101.edu.glogster.com/glog-7488/

Hey everyone! I just completed my first tweet today. My user name is bkrockz2. So far so good!

Blog # one

Hey everyone! My name is Rebekah and I'm currently working towards my associate in Business Management. I'm excited to be taking this class, the learning style is so different but I really like it so far!  I look forward to completing more quests and finding out whats next!