This week’s meeting was an informal discussion of the readings, general considerations about field methods, and conversations about individual student projects.
I had the distinct feeling that some students were bored…
after Kristy and Karlo presented the readings, I gave an overview of interviewing, focus groups, domestic technologies autobiographies, domestic technologies tours, creative exercises, and performance research using personas and scenarios.
we then discussed some of the students’ projects and brainstormed about possible methods for tackling the research.
In the last quarter of an hour of class, Bianca introduced us to Wheelerwood Oppewall, a filmmaker using SL to screen and promote his and others’ work.
he invited us to sit in one of his screening rooms and watch his short films.
he also gave us invitations to join his group, Wheelerwood Films, through which we will receive announcements on his upcoming events.
Chris said,
March 13, 2008 at 12:55 am
Greetings,
I wanted to comment on the statement some of us felt bored. Honestly, that is a good conclusion based on the discussion and thoughts that were shared. Maybe we were bored. Yet, I perhaps think we are a bit overwhelmed. Not because the material is too hard or too much, but because we have been given a great start and we all are really concerned and excited about contributing something great to this course and design research. At least that’s what I felt. As I remember our first SL meeting everyone was so excited about being exposed to a new communication and research method and we all expressed how the greatest benefit was we could openly discuss our personal thought and experiences. As time has gone on, we have seemed to close up a bit. Perhaps shy because our research question isn’t perfected. Perhaps concerned how it stacks up against other research we’ve read about in the text which is really good. We’ve shied up a bit because most if not all of us are new at this, and it seems we all want to do well.
Yet, I can’t help but remember Dr. Pine’s encouragement. That he understands this is new for us. That he knows we can’t complete a full research project the way those in our text have or the way we want to. That going through the process is the important part. And for me, and I am guessing so many others this is the first time. So, I’ve taken the approach of moving forward, despite being unsure of my question and research. Of trying it for the first time. Realizing if it is a bust, I will have learned a lot.
So bored . . . I am not sure. A little concerned and deep in thought yes. And seriously, I think that’s good and an indication Dr. Pines approach is working.
Now, back to my research and research question. It might not be perfect yet but this discussion and readings of methodologies has me ready to dig in and try. I know you all agree.
Happy spring break!
Jason said,
March 13, 2008 at 7:56 am
Chris
Although the SL photos and captions were just another one of my pranks (SL candid camera), I am happy to hear your feedback. You are all developing interesting projects, and I am enjoying thinking through them with you. Have a good break and don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions that come up. I may be a bit slower in responding over break, but I’ll get back to you.