Category: Blog

Reflection

What did you experience?

My video captured a man who went around India and decided to photograph people while they were laughing. He realized through looking back on his work that he only photographed people when they looked gloomy, so he started photographing people and instructed them to laugh. He even went to laughing yoga and photographed people there. Towards the end, he performed a sort of reflection on his project and himself as a whole and realized how human emotion is a really impactful thing.

What impact do you think VR will have on publishing?

I think with VR, publishers will be able to provide meaningful supplements to the text pieces they put out. They will be able to capture things in video that they can’t do through text alone, and will be able to really get people to be able to picture the ideals they’re discussing in the text. VR can open up a world of possibilities for publishers for things such as travel articles, covering news stories/events that have happened, or even making sure that

Do you think VR can evoke empathy?

I do believe that VR can evoke empathy. There are lots of people who I think would really change their attitudes about humanity and helping people in general if they could somewhat experience what some people go through on a day to day basis. Making that emotional connection between people can really be achieved through “walking in someone else’s shoes”.

VR Reflection

In the New York Times virtual reality app, I experienced a video titled “The Displaced”. This video showed what it was like to be a child in a War Torn country or a refugee camp because of a war torn nation. They brought you out into their country, showed what it was like, “a day in the life” so to speak. You see their struggles and the destruction that is their country.

In publishing, I think VR is the next step. If you can bring an article to life, as NYT has done, people will feel a deeper connection and will feel more informed about a topic. There are so many ways to involve VR in publishing. From reviews of a movie that just came out to pieces on Syria and the refugee crisis. VR is the next step for publishing. In fact, I think we are already there.

I agree that VR can evoke empathy. I have learned how important empathy is for humans, but there is very little of it in the world today. Just telling someone about the refugee crisis, or mental illness, or abuse doesn’t do much. But if you were to show them, put them in the shoes of a refugee, a person with a mental illness, or someone who is abused, they will learn so much more, feel so much more, and be able to see what the problems are in the world. Empathy is key for humans and there is no true way to “learn” empathy. But virtual reality programs such as those in the NYT app can help evoke that response and make it more prevalent in the world.

VR Reflection- Brian C

What did you experience?

I watched a story about Abraham Lincoln visiting the graveyard where his son is buried. Throughout the story, several spirits talk to the viewer about the story’s background. At one point, spirits are gathered around Abe as he holds his son’s body, and the viewer feels like part of the crowd. The spirit of Lincoln’s child proclaims that he could feel his father’s long legs and taste the coffee in his mouth. He declares to the other spirits that his father gained something from holding his dead son. Lincoln then puts his son back in the mausoleum and walks away.

What impact do you think VR will have on publishing?

I think, at this point, VR is still inaccessible for most of a publication’s audience. Even with cheaper cardboard viewing devices, it is asking a lot of people to even set up the VR in the first place. Perhaps as VR becomes more mainstream and in the hands of more people, it could have a wide impact. Certainly, any story told through the eyes of VR is still journalism, so it is already a form of storytelling.

Do you think VR can evoke empathy?

I think VR can evoke plenty of empathy. By placing a 3D camera in an area, the film subjects are less likely to modify their behavior. In fact, some may not even notice at all. This means the viewer gets a more genuine experience that is not tainted by editing. Seeing people or animals or plants as they naturally live is always a refreshing view. I agree with the TED speaker that 3D video allows us to be part of an experience rather than view it. We do move through the window.

Reflection

One of the three videos I experienced was a classic take on great performers in L.A. Noir. This was an interactive video featuring Don Cheadle. The description read “You are the BARTENDER who sold him out.” In the video Don Cheadle appears to be looking me directly in the eye. I am positioned behind the bar where he slides me a letter to give to someone. Shortly after, two men casually walk in and shoot him in the back out of nowhere. this actually caused me to jump out of shock because I was not expecting it. I felt like I was directly in this situation. This proves that VR has the ability to evoke empathy and make an impact. I think this could really take us places and “make empathy great again” in the future. The best way to relate is to put yourself in that position, and this is the closest way we have been able to do so without literally doing it. I think this will be great for publishing in the future and will enhance the journalism experience. I look forward to seeing how this comes into play within our everyday lives, as right now it is in the beginning stages.

VR Reflection

While VR promises a lot and could eventually give a user them ability to transcend time and space and be anywhere at any time. The one VR I watched was the one that followed the new horizon spaceship to Pluto. It makes you feel so small to watch yourself so far away from your home and the Sun. It was amazing to see Pluto so up close and personal.

VR will allow publishing to take the reader anywhere and see whatever the author wants them to see. Just like TV’s did  VR opens up a world of possibility that allows the viewer to be submersed in the content. Publishing will expand and allow the viewer to be more involved in the story.

I think VR does make the viewer feel connected and so they experience more emotions then just watching a screen. I do believe in the right set up and connection a viewer could feel empathy.

On a personal note, VR causes me to feel sick every time i use the technology. I am sure i am not alone in this issue and it will have to be overcome to get any real use or enjoyment out of the tech. I also experienced crappy wifi and the issue of having a very pixelated phone. So while the technology is not perfect today and it has a lot to overcome i can see it growing in the future.

VR Reflection

1.) I experienced wild Bison in their natural plains interacting with each other and the camera. Seeing a herd of an animal I have never seen before was very eye opening. It gives me a better sense of their purity and natural awe.

2.) I feel that VR will allow powerful stories to be experienced first hand. This will allow for stories of war, disaster, and trauma to be better appreciated and experienced, opening the eyes of the world and hopefully allowing for a better sense of the world climate.

3.) I do believe VR can evolve empathy. By seeing, as if you are almost there, it leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. Being able to evoke emotion and teach a lesson that print or standard 2D video cannot is what will being others to feel empathetic to those suffering

VR Reflection

What did you experience?

I watched the video about Abraham Lincoln going to visit his sons grave. It was very interesting to watch and the ghosts gave it a sort of creepy, sad feeling.

What impact do you think VR will have on Digital Publishing?

I think VR will help make Digital Publishing more interactive for readers. Instead of just reading an article, they can experience the information first hand.

Do you think VR can evoke empathy?

I think it can. VR surrounds you with new circumstances, instead of just reading about it, you are in the same room as the event. Being immersed in that environment can evoke some feelings of empathy.

Transportation

Transportation in Baltimore

Transportation has been a major concern here at AWE. We want to make sure that you are able to navigate Baltimore efficiently as well as safely. This page features information regarding mass transit here in Baltimore. Information on the Metro, Light Rail and Bus systems is provided below, along with a some helpful tips.

Baltimore Light Rail and Metro Map

Baltimore Light Rail / MetroMap
Baltimore Light Rail / MetroMap

 

Light Rail

The light rail is an above ground, electric train that runs from BWI Airport, through the heart of Baltimore city, all the way into Hunt Valley. It also connects to Penn Station and several bus stops, making it a great primary source of public transportation. The route parallels highway I-83 and runs North to South. The train, runs on dedicated tracks allowing for it to often move faster than congested, rush hour traffic.

Stops are marked on charts above the train’s doors in a very basic order. A dot on a yellow line represents each stop the train will make, the operator will announce each stop as the train approaches it. It is important to pay attention to what stops are close by, or will be coming up since if you miss a stop, you’ll need to get off and catch another train going the opposite direction.

Each light rail station has tracks running in both north and south directions. Above the tracks there will be an automated display that features the estimated arrival times of approaching trains, as well as the direction that side of the tracks runs. Again, paying attention to North/South is important. The electronic signs also display the time, date, and stop name to help you keep your bearings on your location. Near the automated machines where tickets are purchased there is usually a large map of the light rail system with a helpful “you are here” circle to mark the location of the station you are nearest. This can also be helpful in planning your trips around the city.

Stations

Many of the stations have parking lots as well as bus stops allowing for easy connections and parking when journeying into the city. There will be automated machines near each station at which you select your trip options and pay for your ticket. You will want to use smaller bills and/or exact change to pay for your tickets to keep the process simple. You are able to move freely amongst the cars and can sit wherever there is space available, just remember that the sideways bench style seats, closest to the doors, are prioritized for the handicapped.

Light Rail Tracker Link
Link to Light Rail tracker here: http://mta.maryland.gov/LRTracker

Hours

Monday – Friday

5:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Saturday

6:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Sunday

11:00 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Metro

The Baltimore Metro serves as a connector from the Owings Mills area of Baltimore County to downtown Baltimore. The train runs both above and below ground, with stations above and below ground as well. Just like the light rail system, you will purchase your tickets at automated ticket booths positioned at each station. The turn styles near the tracks have a slot to accept and scan your ticket, allowing for entry.

Upcoming stops are announced over the intercom by the operator on board the train. Stations also usually feature display boards with instructions on connecting to other bus or light rail routes nearby.

Hours

Monday – Friday 5:00 am to 12:00 am

Saturday – Sunday 6:00 am to 12:00 am

Bus

Unlike the metro or light rail, you will not buy your bus ticket until you are on the bus itself. Bus stops are marked by blue and white signs on poles that stick out of the sidewalk, often but not always near intersections or busy roads. As you step up onto the bus you’ll insert your payment into machine that looks very similar to the ones you’ll see at a light rail or metro station. This machine is very close to the bus driver, who can help you if you have any problems. You will want to use smaller bills and/or exact change to pay for your ticket to keep the process simple and quick. Remember there will probably be people behind waiting to get on and pay as well. You’ll collect your change and then have a seat in an open spot.

Bus fares are the same prices as light rail or metro tickets. If a day pass is purchased, the rider can take as many rides as they want to, on any form of local transportation, making this a good option if a bus ride is combined with light rail or Metro usage.

One way trips are $1.70, a transferrable day pass is $4.00, a weekly pass is $22.00, a monthly pass is $68.00. Senior fares are slightly discounted at $0.70 one way, $2.00 for a day pass and $20.00 for a monthly pass.
A breakdown of prices for riding the bus, light rail or metro in Baltimore.

BWI

The BWI airport is a large airport south of Baltimore City. Various flights both nationally and internationally enter and exit through this major transportation hub. It is usually a good idea to try to arrive 3 hours before your flight is scheduled to take off. Due to its size, it may take you awhile to orient yourself appropriately once you are inside. You will want to make sure to enter the correct terminal, and then enter the line to begin being checked by security. Once past the security line, you can move about freely, just remember to keep track of the time so you do not miss your flight!

Transportation Connectivity

There are both light rail and bus stops at BWI to help you travel either to or from the airport from the surrounding areas. A taxi from the airport to downtown Baltimore is an estimated $35.00, while this is more expensive then a bus or light rail ticket, the direct route is certainly nice and taxi’s are usually waiting in lines outside of the terminals/entrances. An alternative to a taxi is the airport shuttle service. These shuttles are generally less expensive than the taxi, but are also less direct in their routes.

MARC Train/AMTRAK

The MARC Train system runs in and out of Penn Station in Mt. Royal. The light rail and bus both connect to this station, allowing for easy access to this system. For those looking to reach Baltimore from other east coast cities or commute further distances, the MARC train and AMTRAK provide many options.

Penn Station also can be easily accessed by light rail, bus or taxi.

https://mta.maryland.gov/marc-train

Bibliography

Alpert, Benjamin Joseph. “Measuring New York City Transit: A Brief Overview and Critique of MTA Metrics.” Civic Analytics & Urban Intelligence A graduate class at NYU’s Center for Urban Science & Progress — Fall 2016. N.p., 5 Dec. 2016. Web. 18 Apr. 2017. <https://medium.com/cusp-civic-analytics-urban-intelligence/measuring-new-york-city-transit-a-brief-overview-and-critique-of-mta-metrics-5444d7e3d98d>.

The author of this article is Benjamin Joseph Alpert, a graduate student of urban sciences in New York City. He discusses the pro’s and con’s of using mass transit in New York. The primary intended audience is people looking for feedback on mass transit.

The strengths of this article are the data he cites and the way in which he evaluates the quality and consistency of the transit system. Everything from delays to crowding is covered. For feedback on mass transit in general this could be a valuable resource.

Bose, Pablo. “Transportation, Equity, and Communities at Risk: Refugee Population and Transportation Accessibility in Vermont.” University of Vermont Transportation Research Center, Mar. 2011, pp. 1–67. Google, www.uvm.edu/~transctr/research/trc_reports/UVM-TRC-10-018.pdf. Accessed 20 Mar. 2017.

The author of this article is Pablo Bose, a professor at the University of Vermont. He has done a fairly large amount of research on helping refugees/asylees navigate a foreign country using mass transit. One of the primary intended audiences is the Vermont state government, but anyone looking to learn more or help with the problem is also targeted.

The strengths of this article are its suggestions, possibilities and analysis regarding the transportation problems refugees’ face. The information does support out project as many Vermont refugees face similar problems that are comparable to those working with AWE. This information is highly relevant to our topic.

“Maryland Transportation Resource Information Point | MDTrip.” Maryland Transportation Resource Information Point – MDTrip.org, www.mdtrip.org/. Accessed 20 March. 2017

The author of this article appears to be the Maryland Transit Association, they speak with authority as the site breaks down and explains how to use their own services. The primary intended audience is anyone looking to navigate Maryland using public transportation. The secondary audience would be someone looking to help others navigate Maryland’s transit system.

The strengths are mainly the amount of information regarding the MTA and how it works, as well as how to use it. The information does support our work with AWE as it would help asylees navigate the city. The material is relevant to our class project as it offers both maps and guides to navigating the greater Baltimore area.

Jones, David W. Mass Motorization + Mass Transit : An American History and Policy Analysis. Indiana University Press, 2008. EBSCOhost, ezproxy.stevenson.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=nlebk&AN=242096&site=eds-live&scope=site/Accessed 3 April, 2017.

The author of this article is David Jones, a researcher focusing on the social and economic forces surrounding mass transit, specifically in the United States. He explores the various legislative, economic and cultural aspects of mass transit, how these factors affect transit and how transit also affects these factors.

The strengths of this source are the details and lengths he went to in his research. The weakness is that it doesn’t relate specifically to Baltimore or the refugee crisis, it is more historical in its perspective. This lack of direct relation means that this may be a good source to fall back on, but it isn’t particularly relevant to our cause.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Before this, I had never seen this play so it was a new experience for me. I really enjoyed how the students made the play their own. First, the director changed the cast from all male to all female, which I thought was an interesting twist. Having an all-female cast did not, in my opinion, affect the play in a negative way. On top of this, they incorporated modern media scattered through the play. At one point, when the donkey made its first appearance, the actress started singing Low by Flo Rida. There were several other instances when they used modern songs to fill that gap in the play, I just can’t remember what songs they were. Having these songs in there broke up the seriousness of the play and broke up the tough language of the play. Overall, I really enjoyed the play.

Annotated Bibliographies

“Restoring Whats Been Lost.” U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Apr. 2017. http://refugees.org/explore-the-issues/refugees-facts/   

“Restoring Whats Been Lost” is a page on refugees.org that gives facts about who refugees are, where they come from, and why they are leaving. It was put together by the U.S Committee for Refugees and Immigrants which is an agency that works both nationally and internationally to help refugees and immigrants all over the world. The intended audience of this particular article is those who are looking to learn more about refugees and those that need to be educated on this issue. The article contains maps and pictures and statistics that are easy for anyone to understand, however it doesn’t give very specific information that people may be looking for.

The map that is found on this page is the one I would like to use as a model for the map we will put on AWE’s website. The information on the website supports my project idea, that information that is easily accessible and understandable is beneficial to donors and the general public. The information can also be used on AWE’s website as many of the asylee’s come from these same places.

World Vision Staff. “Syria Refugee Crisis: Facts You Need to Know.” World Vision. N.p., 16 Mar. 2017. Web. 01 Apr. 2017. https://www.worldvision.org/refugees-news-stories/syria-refugee-crisis-war-facts

World Vision is a non-profit organization much like AWE is. However, they work directly in Syria. This article on their website provides specific information, in bullet lists, as to what is going on in Syria and how it effects women and children. The authors wrote this with the intention to educate but also pull at the heart strings, get them to empathize with all the horrible things that are happening. That being said, there is a slant in the article is it only talks the 100% absolutely horrible that happen and not any normal day to day things that happen.

This article will be beneficial toward my research for AWE’s website as Tiffany stated that Syria is in the top 10 places their clients come from. Also, Syria is a heavy topic in the news right now with the travel ban from President Trump. I think it could be beneficial to include some information from this website on the map we are creating for AWE.

Beltran, Adriana “Children and Families Fleeing Violence in Central America.” WOLA. N.p., 21 Feb. 2017. Web. 08 Apr. 2017. https://www.wola.org/analysis/people-leaving-central-americas-northern-triangle/ 

This article was written by Adriana Beltran, a senior associate for Citizen Security at WOLA. She is heavily involved in the prevention of violence in the Americas but also helping those get out of violent situations and countries. Her main claims include why people are fleeing Central America. It is common to hear of people fleeing the Middle East, but not countries that are in our backyard.

This source will be very helpful in my research for AWE. There were multiple Central American countries in the top 10 place and it is important to include all of these, not just the ones you hear about in the news all the time. It will be beneficial for donors to know that asylees come from all over the world and they need our help whether they are fleeing war or homicide.