End of Module Two

Reading through the blogs and comments, I'm even more disappointed to have missed the first round of book presentations. From what it sounds like, most people were really able to integrate what they took from the presentation readings and make the review their own. My presentation isn't for a couple weeks, and I'm not feeling particularly confident that I'll be able to do the same... I'm definitely one of the "jitterbug" types (though do I get points for not over-practicing? I'm ridiculously superstitious about that) and even though my book is relatively well suited for the theme (reads almost like a coffee-table book) I'm not identifying with the topic as easily as I'd like. It's about individual advertisements that, each in their own way, changed they way we give and accept marketing information. Since the book was written over 10 years ago, and with the way technology had boomed since then.... well, I feel like I need to make the presentation more current; thing is, I haven't owned a television since i was 1998, and I've never had a subscription to any major print magazine- I feel a bit out of the loop. (These days, when I'm in the same room as a TV, it's like I'm hypnotized. Flashing colors! Moving pictures with sound! Sensory overload! Ooo, America's Next Top Model!) I guess the very first assignment should have make pretty clear that I'm bombarded with ads everyday regardless of tv/print choices, but still.. I'm struggling a bit to figure out what's really relevant.

I guess though, in terms of targeting/tailoring (yeah! I hadn't realized the clear difference in terms either- thanks!) those online ads that pop up along side my emails are actually pretty impressive in that respect. I'm not sure I've ever actually clicked on any, and there was definitely a time when I'd try to send emails with wording designed to illicit odd/inappropriate ad popups just for fun- but still, it's a pretty amazing development for ads in general when it actually works.

Regarding class in general, it's been pretty great so far, and there's a lot of information I'm picking up here that I wish I had my first couple of semesters; I feel like this should be one of the first classes we take, rather than the last. The individual presentations continue to be a great way to get the article info; everyone has done a pretty phenomenal job so far, and it's been a pleasure to learn from you guys. Yay.

(Side note: I missed class last week to be there for the birth of my almost-nephew, Jack, and my goodness I think a bit of reality mixed in to that whole "miracle of birth" thing could potentially work wonders for reducing teen pregnancy intentions. Wow.) (Side-side note: That said, he is still the most amazing thing on the planet. Congrats Flo and Jay, he's perfect.)