This Semester

This semester has quickly flown by even though I know that at times it certainly did not feel like it. I can close my eyes and effortlessly visualize Mr. Mitchell, my teacher, explaining the importance of English. He encourages us to write with structure, passion, and most importantly our voice. He often mentions the word ethos, and asks us to individually search for our interpretation of the word. To me, the term ethos means ethically adding your own personality into your writing.

I remember my very first blog post as if it were yesterday. I had never done anything like this before, so the entire concept was new, interesting, and a little intimidating to me. It was amazing to create something from nothing. The ultimate feeling of success upon posting a blog, complete with graphics and hypertext, is indescribable. Initially I created a name for both myself and the webpage. I chose Sooner Words as the webpage title because I am currently a freshman at the University of Oklahoma, and the mascot is a Sooner. My signature, WrittenWithoutInk, is representative of my love of writing; however, since the written words are on a computer there is no need for ink. I was appreciative when Mr. Mitchell gave me access to my classmates' links, Performing Composition, because I could now officially comment on other blogs. I took my responsibility seriously, but allowed my ethos to be incorporated into each response.

My initial blog, Sooner Words, rhetorically analyzes a commercial advertisement that clearly reflects me. I evaluated the Coca-Cola snowball fight commercial that aired during the time of the 2010 Winter Olympics. The commercial message illustrates drinking a Coke provides happiness, laughter, and good sportsmanship. It represents me because I enjoy being with friends and acting a little impulsive. I critically examine the commercial through color usage, character development, and marketing appeal. Additionally, I focus on the director's message, intent, and methods. My ethos shines through as I closely identify with this marketing marvel of spreading joy and camaraderie.

Later on during the course of the semester, we were assigned our second paper, an Aristotelian argument. My topic dealt with the positive correlation between technology advancements and global communication. I wrote a newspaper article targeting University of Oklahoma students. I took great pride in the commentary, and once again relied on my ethos. Although it was enjoyable to write, it made me realize I no longer miss being on my high school yearbook staff.

The third paper, a Rogerian argument, caused me to jump through a few hoops due to the complexity of the subject matter. A Rogerian argument attempts to reach a compromise between two opposing perspectives. I chose simple living versus consumerism. I discovered that the Simple Living Network is an organization that motivates its followers to live simply by examining their individual core values and needs. An opposing perspective of simple living, The Ayn Rand Institute, advocates that an Objectivism philosophy is best achieved by a capitalist society thoroughly enjoying all of its rewards. To me, the most difficult concept was finding common ground between the two. After meticulous research, I determined that the common ground is the well-being of the individual. Once again, my ethos enabled me to explore my consumer habits while in pursuit of a simpler lifestyle.

The fourth assignment was a group project that was difficult at times. Requiring four strong-willed individuals to communicate and complete their work in a timely manner was stressful. Once we overcame these obstacles, we were quickly able to select photos and capture our "together" voice. The Collection Depot is my group's website. Overall, the website is a shinning masterpiece of our accomplishments and implements ethos in each of our collections.

Now it is the end of the semester, and I am definitely glad I fully participated in everything that my English class had to offer. I learned a considerable amount about myself, how to blog, how to write various forms of arguments, and most significantly how to use my ethos. Thank you Mr. Mitchell for a great semester!

A Day Without Digital Technology

A day without using a significant piece of modern digital technology such as a cell phone, a laptop, Facebook, or even the Internet should be simple and stress free, but it is truly more complex than one would imagine. Could you last a day without one of these technological marvels? I attempted to go one day without my cell phone. Initially it did not seem more than the emptiness in my pocket or the dreaded feeling that I had forgotten something. However, not having my cell phone seemed to inconvenience others wanting to contact me. My roommate begrudgingly acted as my answering service, constantly relaying messages to me. In turn, I had to locate friends during the course of the day to communicate subject matter that could not wait any longer. Although I felt having to search for friends was a waste of time, I did enjoy the outdoors. Throughout the school day, I could not text anyone to finalize plans, take pictures, or play games for entertainment when I was bored. I am definitely more dependent on my cell phone than I anticipated.

Wendell Berry, author and farmer for over thirty years, views technology as an unwanted expenditure of money, time, and energy. After reading his article, "Why I Am Not Going To Buy A Computer," detailing his opinions on computers and technology, I believe he could effortlessly complete a day without technology. Berry's wife types his writings on a typewriter instead of using a computer. According to Berry, the price for computers is prohibitive. While the monetary cost for computers may decline, the sacrifices are just too great. Berry notes public schools have computers, but not enough money to purchase textbooks. He also laments that computers do not promote world peace, solve ecological ailments, or encourage integrity. He masterfully argues using a computer would also compromise his relationship with his wife since her skills would no longer be required.

I can somewhat agree with Berry's belief that technological dependence is excessive. Integrating computers into the educational system seems to be going too far if students do not have access to books. I understand his perspective on spending quality time with loved ones; however, a cell phone allows me to quickly contact more people than if I had to personally locate them.

In my life today, removing all forms of technological devices would be disastrous. All of my college instructors place information, alerts, assignments, and grades on an Internet website, Desire2Learn. Teachers send out mass emails to the class documenting significant dates and revising assignments. Email is the preferred method for corresponding with teachers. I feel integrated advanced technology in college life is necessary. Teaching students hos to successfully manage the technology will provide basic skills needed to survive after graduation.

I do appreciate Berry's handwritten work using pen/pencil and paper since I too enjoy writing. I used to write by hand, but then it became too cumbersome transferring thoughts from paper to computer, so now I primarily use the computer. I do envy the fact that he can write whenever and wherever he desires, but because of my growing affinity for the computer I no longer have that luxury. I feel as if technology is constantly changing, and I am becoming addicted. The only reason I wish technology changes would slow is so that I could possibly start a journal and hand write stories, just as Berry does.