It's the end of the semester which means an end to these blog posts, and I can finally say that "I did it." I've made it through this 0 period class and have honestly learned a lot. Not only did the class teach about the interesting details of media, but it forced the students the make their own blogs so that they could see first hand, how media is truly affecting them. Because of this assignment my encounters with media have changed, and I've learned why it's important to be educated in this field.
To start with my own encounters with media since this class, the actual amount of media I consume hasn't changed. I can say, however, that I see the content being presented to me much differently. I can no longer watch a television show without picking up on the large number of brands being incorporated. It goes as far as music videos that I watch also, with the lighting and camera angles that the producers use to make the viewer feel a particular way. Knowing how to spot this information is very beneficial, and can act as a filter for the consumer or viewer to find their true likes and dislikes.
Before this class, I had been just as oblivious as the next guy when it comes to televised media, specifically the commercials. A perfect example of this are the commercials shown during the super bowl, which are both humorous and entertaining. Little did I not know that I was subliminally being manipulated by advertising companies, and not just being given free entertainment. Looking back, I can see the massive amounts of Doritos that i've purchased over the years, never knowing why. I now know that it's because of the ingenious techniques of advertising companies, and with this knowledge, I can better protect myself from manipulation. It's for this very reason that more individuals should know the truth.
Becoming aware, the key idea that I got from this assignment. I have become aware of these sly companies and what they'll do to sell their product. Because of this i'm a much more alert consumer, now looking at the details of advertisements to see what their selling, which is usually the brand rather than the product. However, it's obvious that the average person doesn't know this which, in my opinion, needs to change. Not only would people be spending their money better but with everyone's combined knowledge, there is a possibility of taking down these very companies in charge.
From what I can see, this class was one of the few aspects of school that will clearly change both my present and future. And for that I send a big thanks to my teacher.
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