Technology Limits

In recent years, the Presentation community has seen a large push towards new technology tools to make class more effective. Moodle makes Powerpoints and handouts accessible from anywhere, Lingtlanguage assesses a student’s speech progress, and blogs keep students updated with news without waiting until the next class. New technology has really advanced what teachers and students are able to do.

But should there be a limit for how much Presentation uses technology?

With all of the new technology Presentation uses to advance its curriculum, there is also a financial commitment that students must make to keep up with this progress.

For example, the program Lingtlanguage requires a microphone that can be plugged into a computer. Though this program is great to test a student’s progress with pronunciation in foreign language classes, the price of the microphone may not be so easy to accept.

For many families, the price of Presentation’s tuition is difficult enough to afford, aside from the many other expenses that come with school.

Especially during these difficult economic times, each and every expense means a lot to families. This should be kept in mind as Presentation continues to develop its use of technology.

Though the push towards going paperless is certainly good for the environment, it also means Presentation’s dependency on technology increases. Consequently, students must have the necessary technology to complete their schoolwork.

Sure, there are some students who are not affected at all, but there also students who do not have the luxury of having a laptop with all the gimmicks required to complete some of the assignments they are assigned. Those student’s families may have a PC desktop computer at home, but if it does not have a microphone and updated versions of Microsoft Word or PowerPoint, she will have a very difficult time with the work she is assigned.

Some people may argue there is no limit because Presentation provides all the technology necessary to complete all assignments assigned to students. Mrs. Stampfl said, “I do not believe there is a limit on how much technology a teacher can use because the school’s computer labs are open in the morning, at lunch, and after school.”

However, students may not be able to go to the computer lab during these times. Many homework assignments take longer than the time that the computer lab is open. These times are also when clubs meet, groups work on projects, and when extracurricular activities take place. This means that students do not always have the option to use Pres’s equipment. For example, room 101 often closes by 4 p.m., which makes it difficult for students to access the lab.

The simple luxury of Internet access is also not always available to all Presentation students. No matter if the assignment is an English paper or a science handout, if there is no Internet access, those assignments can be impossible to complete. Going to a local library is not always an option because the student would need to find a ride, libraries are not open very late due to city budget cuts, and when they are, there is often not an open computer to use.

Having a computer at all, with or without all the bells and whistles, is a luxury–one that not all students at Presentation have. Those students are at a disadvantage even now since many teachers already use blogs and assign many research based assignments that require a computer with Internet.

While advancing a class with technology to expand the teacher’s abilities in terms of assessment techniques can be good, it is not always the answer. Ms. Bohorquez said, “Good teaching is not based on technology.” Even with technology, a teacher must still teach his or her students, and technology does not go hand in hand with that.

A computer program will not ensure a student understands a concept. It takes face to face conversation with the teacher to explain the class material. Ms. Bohorquez said technology is good, but teachers should also think of ways to assess students without it.

So, while it is great that Presentation looks for new ways to advance its curriculum, the school should keep in mind the implications that come with its new developments. It is not always as easy as telling students their homework assignments; some of those students may not have all the necessary equipment required to complete their homework and projects.

 

Digital Changes

A new decade has started and it is time to let go the technology of the past. Good-bye roll-in TV monitors, VCRs, overhead projectors and pathetically slow dial-up internet. Hello roll-in laptop carts, DVDs, high-speed internet, projectors, student emails, surround sound systems and… Elmo?

Pres is fortunate enough to be financially capable of keeping our school up-to-date with all of the latest technology. Most Pres teachers are comfortable using technology within their classes. Class blogs and document cameras such as ELMO, or Electronic Light Modulated Overhead, which are now a part of Pres life, are adding new elements to our learning.

Ms. Stampfl began a French class blog four years ago for all of her classes in an effort to go paperless and excess-less. “I was tired of ‘I lost my calendar’, ‘I didn’t know how to do it’, ‘I didn’t know we had homework’. I was basically tired of excuses,” she said. “You guys are already plugged in, might as well do something for me.”

On her blog, Ms. Stampfl posts a daily review of what was taught in class and the homework assignment for that night, written all in French of course. This enables her to reflect on the amount of homework she is assigning and to make sure it is reasonable, even though it is time-consuming and a hassle to keep updated. There is also no need for her to print up unit calendars for students, reducing paper use and confusion if there is a change in the homework.

In the case that students are confused or are asked to do a writing assignment, the comment section of the blog acts as a method of communication between members of the class and Ms. Stampfl. If a student is confused, she is expected to comment on the blog so her question can be answered either by another student or Ms. Stampfl herself.

“I like it and I don’t like it,” said freshman Jessie Kwang. “Sometimes it’s easier to type on the blog.”

“There are also resources like Tex’s French Grammar and verb conjugates so that if [students] are inspired they can go one step further,” Stampfl said. Links to French radio, articles and cultural websites can be found listed on the blog. Ms. Stampfl said, “It makes the language real versus just the workbook.”

A recent addition to Ms. Stampfl’s curriculum is Lingtlanguage, an educational website for teaching languages where students use the internet and microphones to practice speaking and writing at home individually. Introduced to her by other teachers at a local teaching convention, Lingtlanguage helps Ms. Stampfl make sure her students are able to use vocabulary and grammar properly. “It gives them an opportunity to speak or write outside of class and gives them individual feedback, especially for timid students or students who don’t like to be corrected in class.”

“I like it,” said senior Margo Estrade. “It teaches us more real world language skills.”

Each student in Ms. Stampfl’s class has her own miniature blog called a Wikispace where students post videos, pictures, PowerPoints and widgets from homework assignments and projects. “It functions as an electronic portfolio. The goal is at the end of their studies at Pres or with me, they can have something they can show to someone and say, ‘Hey, this is what I can do.’ Like the blog, it showcases work,” she explained. Ms. Stampfl pointed out that practice with web-related activities can be helpful for college and jobs in the future.

When asked if there has been a noticeable improvement in her classes with the blog, Ms. Stampfl said, “In their writing absolutely. Because they know other people can see their work they try harder. I try not to embarrass them, but it forces them to correct mistakes.”

Similarly, Mr. Case’s blog started a few years back as a communication and homework tool for all of his history classes as well as for Speech and Debate. Mr. Case found free educational blogs online and started with the intention of posting homework and creating a database of files for students to use.

Copies of every document used are uploaded to the website for students to download. He explained, “All the PowerPoints, all the handouts, everything I use is on here.” This means all of the class material is available to students directly, which makes studying for tests easier. “It solves being absent.”

Discussion questions are posted that correspond with reading from homework that students respond to on the blog. This reduces copying and cheating on homework assignments that Mr. Case had seen before from his classes, since rather than “copying and regurgitating information with worksheets,” students have to think before writing because everyone can see what they write. “It gives [students] and a way of communicating outside of class with each other.”

“[The blog] is really, really helpful for Speech and Debate and class. If I forget something, I can just go to the website. It gave me more viewpoints and perspectives, because other people posted their opinions on certain debates,” said Pres junior Mandy Heiser. These added viewpoints posted on the blog are mentioned and discussed further in class giving students encouragement to do better.

When asked if it had improved his students’ skills Mr. Case said, “In ability to discuss history, absolutely.”

One issue with the blog is that it can be hard to access on occasion. “When the server is down, kids can’t access the blog. It occurs from time to time, but we work around it,” said Mr. Case.

Ms. Goldau’s math classes do not have a blog, but a new friend: ELMO, the document camera. Having learned about how much her friends who taught in public school liked their document camera, Ms. Goldau requested the ELMO on Pres’s teacher wish list. Three years later, her wish came true.

ELMO is intended to replace the traditional projector, which uses light, transparencies and mirrors to project an image on a screen, with a color video image of whatever is place under the camera. “It has more capabilities than any student worksheet,” said Ms. Goldau. “I can put a calculator directly underneath it with no separate screen, which saves the department money.”

The ELMO can also be placed anywhere in the room, but still project on the center of the screen because it is connected to the overhead projector, making it easier to arrange the classroom for project presentations or games without losing class time.

ELMO saves even more time for Ms. Goldau, absent students and confused students with its picture taking capabilities. During a lecture, Ms. Goldau can take pictures of notes directly from class that can be placed on the K-Drive for students to review with or learn from.

ELMO is not perfect however; the clarity is not as good as the original projector. On occasion light spots will reflect into the lens of the camera, making it difficult to see. Two of the lights above the projector had to be removed to prevent the glare. “I do miss the clarity,” said Mrs. Goldau, “but I like having any paper underneath. I’m less dependent on transparencies now.”

Ms. Goldau explained that in class, if a student does good work on a math problem, she can ask them to simply put their paper under the camera to share it with class and get the deserved recognition.

She is also less dependent on screen size. The ELMO projects a larger picture and zooming capabilities, making it possible for different views of worksheets. When watching the ELMO in action, it’s easy to see all the potential uses for in English, Art and more.

Mr. Blightman has also been changing things up in his math class with the incorporation of his iPad. Similar to tablet computers, an application called Art Sketch allows Mr. Blightman to connect to the projector and draw free hand on the screen. Shapes and anything else imaginable can also be created in additional applications and added to the Art Sketch page.

Using the iPad instead of a tablet computer or projector however allows more mobility. Because it is so small and light, the iPad can be carried around the room so Mr. Blightman does not have to stay in the back of the classroom on the computer. Students can also pass around the iPad, so they can answer questions that are projected overhead for the rest to see. “It gets better as you change. It keeps people attentive,” Mr. Blightman said.

On the horizon are some new tools that will allow students to take instant quizzes and surveys in class, with the responses projected onto the screen. Stay tuned for our review.

Will Pres ever go bookless? See our article on eBook technology.

One Week Without Technology

Imagine going five days with no cell phone, Facebook, television or recreational emailing. Well for me, this nightmare was not solely in my dreams; it was reality. I went five days without social networking, which included texting, watching television, visiting Facebook and emailing as a mean of making up for my lack of other communication sources, although I did make exceptions for family communication, emergency situations and homework questions. I knew that if I could completely isolate myself from what was going on outside my immediate surroundings, then I would experience what it was truly like to live without technology and social networking.

Day 1

Before we get into this difficult test of self control, there are a few things you should know about me. I am a social butterfly; hands down I am ALWAYS talking to someone. Whether it is online, texting or talking on the phone, there is rarely time where I do not have a conversation going..

So day one; today wasn’t too bad, I missed my friends but it is OK because I get to see them tomorrow. I started out my day without the usual good morning text messages and I ceased to visit my favorite websites during my class in the computer lab. I watched as my classmates surfed the web during our free time and it was difficult to not accompany them, but I restrained myself from the social urge. My ride home was quiet until I realized music did not count as social networking, making this the most exciting moment of my dull day.

Arriving home to look at my three received text messages was challenging but I am proud to say that I did not respond! I did homework in an amazingly short amount of time, which left me about an hour for…. READING, no television, which was hard because my usual routine consists of falling asleep to the sound of my television. Luckily for me, my night was extremely busy, giving me little time for anything but homework and my hour of reading. Social networking has become such a huge pat of teenage life, mine included. These next five days should be a struggle, but I am well up to the challenge.

Day2

Today was not any harder than yesterday. I miss the good morning and good night texts but not having a cell phone is surprisingly relaxing. My homework seems to be finished a lot quicker and I have time to actually FINISH everything before 9 p.m. I am proud to say that I will be tucking myself into bed by 8:30 tonight. I guess I will finally get in my nine hours of sleep!

The hardest thing about no social networking is how to occupy my free time. I forgot what it was like to spend my free time without my face glued to the computer screen, or my thumbs working to type out all my thoughts into the tiny text box on my cell phone. One extremely difficult feat I faced tonight was stopping myself from turning on the Glee season premier. Of course it had to fall on the week where I am not allowed to watch television. It is so hard to know that in a half an hour I could turn on the TV to hear the beautiful Glee ballads. But fortunately due to wonderful technology, I can always watch the episode next week online.

A word of advice for anyone who decides not to text for a certain amount of time: do not read the texts you receive because it makes it so much harder to not respond. Another day down, three more to go.

Day 3

Today was hard, the past couple of days have been somewhat easy, but today was like going through withdrawal. I woke up and drove to school; I think that without music I would probably go insane. Anyway, I got to school and even though I never text at school, I had the urge to today. School ended and I was bombarded by texts from non-Pres friends asking if I was dead or mad at them. I received a plethora of worried and angry messages. As hard as it was to not console my frantic friends, I resisted the temptation to respond.

I arrived at home with very little homework to complete, which left me with a lot of free time. I finished all my reading, homework and extra work. I would usually fill my free time with useless junk reality shows while lurking people on Facebook, but those pastimes were off limits. So I resorted to sitting on my bed and staring at my ceiling fan spin around. When I was bored by the exciting action of the fan, it was about 9 p.m., and I was beginning to get tired.

I tried to sleep, but my technology deprived body could only think about how much I wish I could pop The Hangover into my DVD player and have a good laugh. I resorted to writing letters to my friends. Keep in mind that I have never enjoyed writing letters. It is weird to think that when my access to technology is shut off, so am I. It feels as if I have been slowly running out of batteries and I cannot find my charger.

Day 4

As I went through my day today, I realized that yesterday was not as hard as it could get; today was worse. I feel like I accidentally skipped a portion of my scantron on my final, which caused me to fail it AND Powerschool is down so I cannot check to see how much my grade dropped. It is like I am my phone, but I am trying to turn on with no battery in; I am working my hardest to get though the day, but all this effort is so draining. I feel ashamed in a way that this is such a difficult task for me, but the reality is that it is one of the hardest things I have had to do. Because social networking has become such a huge part of my life, I truly do not know how to function without it.

My theory is that my mind has become so mentally exhausted because all the free time that I have has been filled with academics that it doesn’t know how to react. I have had no time to let my mind relax. As much as junk TV and texting are destructive to our minds, they relieve stress and take our minds off of school every day. It’s like when our parents watch HGTV or garden; it helps them unwind from the stresses presented at work that day. And social networking is that unwinding element in our life. No matter how much other generations disagree with our commitment to our technology, it is just how things are now and realistically that is not going to change anytime soon. I am just happy that tomorrow is the final day I have to go without the refuge of my social life.

Day 5

The day has come, my final day of no technology. Today was a blur, and I have been looking forward to the end of this day for four days now. Though four days does not seem like a lot, this has been the longest week of my life. Today has been extremely busy, which has pushed the day along a lot quicker than I imagined it would be. I had a water polo tournament which left me with few breaks and very little free time. My friends were surrounding me, so the urge to talk to many other people was not as high. As much as I missed technology, I realized today that I need to try to not be as dependent on it as I am. I feel guilty that I cannot go one hundred and twenty hours of no social networking without going crazy.

Though this challenge has been difficult, it has taught me how to manage my time a lot better and I have had time to spend with the people I live with, also known as my family. They seem to be forgotten when I have people to text and the Internet to surf, when this should not be the case. So here it is the last day without a cell phone, and without Facebook. I think I might miss it a little bit as ridiculous as that sounds, but it was nice to not freak out when I left my phone at home, or have to respond to five people while I am trying to finish up that one hard math problem. I did miss my social life, but after this I will not be as attached to my technology. I would advise everyone to turn off your phone and shut off your computer for one hour and see what it is like. You might actually enjoy the quiet.

Point/Counterpoint: Does Technology Help or Hinder Communication?

Helps

Pretend for a moment that this newspaper is the greatest technological advancement . Not only would you not be reading this article online or in the paper, but you would also not have the luxury of a cellphone or a computer. Your expectations for communication would be very low. In fact, with the exception of letter writing and talking face to face, you would not engage in communication at all. Now come back in the present. It’s 2010, and you hear people complaining about how technology is destroying communication. “People never talk face to face anymore.” ” People can’t convey emotions anymore except through emoticons.” These are only a few of the complaints surrounding technology and communication today, and they are both directed at the wrong killer.

Not surprisingly, the majority of complaints about technology inhibiting communication come from older people who are disgruntled by being forced to learn new skills to communicate. Though it is understandable and even expected that technology would be confusing for people who didn’t grow up with it, this is not an adequate reason to blame it for communication problems. Rather than harboring unjustified dislike for technology, these people should invest in learning how to use it properly. I don’t know about you, but I haven’t met a single person who knows a lot about technology and doesn’t like it, so maybe technology is not as bad as we thought.

First of all, people spend plenty of time communicating face to face. In fact, we spend more time in community than we ever could without technology due to the ease of making instant plans and contacting multiple people at once. Sending out a mass text or a facebook invite is an easy, efficient way of planning gatherings. Though some may complain it’s impersonal, that is actually one of its greatest benefits. Too often, people don’t make plans together because they don’t think they know each other well enough to ask or that the other person won’t want to hang out with them. Technology allows people to make plans in an impersonal, less intimidating way, which in turn allows them to spend quality time with a variety of people in person.

Technophobes also complain that emails and texts are too easily misunderstood. Well, these people need a serious wakeup call. Sucking every ounce of emotion out of a few words on a screen is a terrible idea. The technology is doing exactly what it is supposed to – it’s allowing the instant exchange of words, but it’s our job to remember that this is all it is supposed to do. If we are trying to communicate heartfelt sentiments, it’s up to us to communicate them effectively, using clear and straightforward language. Or better yet, just wait until you can talk on the phone or in person. How can we expect a tiny screen and 160 characters to express the complex message we communicate in person using words, facial expressions, and body language? It is the unfortunate truth that many people use the wrong mediums for the messages they want to convey, and this misuse of technology is a problem; however, technology cannot be blamed for the actions of its users. With great power comes great responsibility, and the responsibility falls on us.

Perhaps the most important thing to remember in this debate is that we are extremely lucky. Complain as we may, what other generation could video chat with friends a thousand miles away? This is practically as effective as being in person, compared with the alternative of not communicating at all. Also, technology allows us to choose the preferred medium among countless possibilities. Depending on our circumstances, we can communicate in the most appropriate way possible, whether that be a phone call, a text message, an email, or even a facebook message. So tell me again, how is technology destroying communication?

It is not technology that’s inhibiting communication, it’s us. Without technology, the communication we’re complaining about wouldn’t be possible. We are in no way forced to misuse technology or make assumptions based on insufficient information. Perhaps we blame technology for our communication problems because we’ve been offended by people who misuse it. Or maybe we just need a scapegoat for our miscommunications, but when it comes down to it, we need to realize that technology doesn’t use itself. We are responsible for everything we communicate. Does communicating via technology have its flaws? Yes. Do the disadvantages outweigh the benefits? Not even close.

Hinders

Faceook. The new ultimate matchmaker as we ladies acquaint ourselves with the opposite sex online. Sometimes without their even knowing it (yes, Facebook lurkers, I’m talking about you). Facebook, just one of the many social networking sites in the world, has greatly sped up communication to literally a blink of an eye. Need to talk to someone on the other side of the globe? No problem. E-mail, instant-messaging or phone calls are at your disposal. Just take your pick.

Yet, these advancements are doing more harm than good. Though technology has no doubt increased the speed of communication, it has ultimately hindered our ability and more importantly our confidence to communicate. Sure, typing messages on a keyboard is easy. But what happens when you have to have an actual conversation in person? Nerve-wracking, I know.

What was once a fear of public speaking has transformed into a fear of verbal communication of any kind. Because of applications such as AIM, individuals have become so adapted to speaking through their keyboard that they are unaccustomed to using their verbal skills.

I’m sure we’ve all encountered at least once in our life someone who was extremely friendly online, but actually rather shy in person. Since we rely so wholly on electronic modes of speaking, the thought of communicating with someone face-to-face is actually rather frightening. Instead, we prefer to hide behind a computer screen and instant message as it makes us feel more confident and less socially awkward.

This confidence stems from technology’s impersonal and less confrontational nature. Some would say this technological impersonality is an advantage as people are able to make plans with others in a less intimidating manner. But, why should we even be intimidated in the first place? Technology has made us dependent and accustomed to impersonal social contact. We are fearful of having personal conversations with new acquaintances, and clearly, this bad habit of perpetual shyness needs to stop.

One of the major drawbacks of technology is its inability to convey emotion. Often e-mails, texts and instant messages are rather cut and dry, with extremely short messages and acronymic jargon. However, some argue that though text messages are not the best way to convey emotion, this is not an issue. Technology is designed to be fast, and being abrupt and lacking emotion are the side effects of this speed.

Still, it’s important to remember that emotion remains to be a vital part of communication, and it cannot be overlooked. Yes, there are the benefits of speedy technology, but the limitations of impersonality need to be acknowledged as well. Technology works to make up for this in the form of emoticons.

All veteran texters, e-mailers and instant messengers alike are familiar with the all-popular emoticons and acronyms, and the emotions that come with them. Insert a when you are happy and when you are ecstatic. Or perhaps a when you are sad and maybe even a >:( when you are VERY sad. But, while emoticons are a cute novelty to include when sending a message to someone, there is such thing as overkill. Emoticons should not be inserted into every possible situation. ))))) LOLOLOL every five seconds? No, thank you. >:|

Emoticons are everywhere, and this rise of shorthand has caused many to rely wholly on smileys and acronyms to convey their emotions and feelings. No longer do we use our words to communicate our happiness. No longer do we convey our feelings through writing and language, or perhaps through vocabulary and literary expression. No. We turn to the colon and parentheses combined to express ourselves. Wonderful.

It is undeniable that technology makes life much easier, so this is not a command to completely eliminate technological communication from life. Instead, it is a warning to cut back. When applications such as AIM or Facebook cross the line and become the primary mode of communication is when the trouble begins. For example, technology creates a shield of anonymity that has contributed to the rise of online bullying.

The innovation of concepts such as e-mail and online messaging has spilled over to cell phones in the form of text messaging. While texting does have its benefits in regards to speed, its drawbacks are having an effect on social etiquette and manners.

As it slowly becomes the primary mode of communication, people often opt to send a text message instead of a phone call and can even be seen texting when in the company of another person, be it during a face-to-face lunch or conversation. Instead of taking the time to personally interact with company, they ignore them and choose to speak through their phone with someone else.

Technology has its benefits, yes. Without it, society would not be as advanced as it is today. But recognizing the differences between moderation and excess are crucial. Technology should be used, not abused, and bad habits need to be avoided.

So don’t just sit there behind your computer screen and stay inside all day. Instead, get out there, get some sun, and get some communication on. Perhaps try unplugging and getting to know people face-to-face. Using your words is a good thing. But speaking them is even better. [Insert situation-appropriate emoticon here]

Trend Report: Fall 2009

Every season comes with new trends. Here, The Voice gives you an update on what’s in.

Fashion
The chilly season is coming up quicker than Pres girls can handle. With school, family, and social lives, many do not have time to hit the mall to browse for new trends. Have no fear, The Voice has all the trends that are in for this upcoming season.
One of the main focuses for girls is staying warm while attending events or going to school. There are ways to do this without layering three sweatshirts! Buy an insulated pea coat that has buttons or a belt. With a little extra length, they keep your torso and upper thighs warm throughout the day. These jackets are a huge hit with teenage girls as they allow girls to adjust the belt or buttons to accentuate their waists, the thinnest area in a woman’s midsection. Pair your jacket with a cute cashmere sweater underneath. Cashmere is a material that is extremely soft and traps in heat so your body stays warm and cozy. If bought in a neutral color, (black, white, tan, navy blue,) the sweater can be paired with almost anything, including your school uniform! If you are going out, match your jacket and sweater with a cute, fitted pair of skinny jeans. These jeans are still popular in the fashion world, and thus are sold at almost every store that carries jeans. Find a pair that fits your body type and rock your outfit at a football game, the movies or a family event.
As girls, we need to carry around our makeup, wallet, cell phone and iPod everywhere we go. Carry the “essentials” in a stylish new purse. The perfect purse for this season is a large, dark purple one. Purple is the new black for this season as seen in shirts, jackets, scarves and accessories. With a purse like this, girls will always be able to show off this beautiful color.
Finally, many girls’ favorite part of an outfit: the shoes. This season’s most popular shoe is the boot. The most versatile boots are the booties that go to the ankle. These come with buckles, peep toes, ruffles, studs or flats. The variety is endless with plenty of options for all kinds of styles. So grab a friend (or a computer!) and score some of the essentials for this season.

Music
Need to update your iPod soon? Don’t forget these three top songs for your playlist! For a calm, peaceful song, purchase Owl City’s song “Fireflies” which is currently number one on iTunes. If you are feeling overwhelmed from school, “Fireflies” will lift your spirits, due to the pleasant lyrics, such as “‘Cause I’d get a thousand hugs, From ten thousand lightning bugs, As they tried to teach me how to dance” and the soft voice of the lead singer. Another popular song to get girls out of their seats is “3” by Britney Spears. This song- exactly three minutes and 33 seconds long- is good to listen to while driving or cleaning up; it will bring some fun into tedious activities. For a sweet, upbeat love song, purchase “Replay” by Iyaz. This song will bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Since its release, “Replay” has been on the iTunes top songs and has remained there for more than a month. Other top songs include “Paparazzi” by Lady GaGa, “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z, and “Forever” by Drake, Kanye West, Lil’ Wayne, and Eminem.

Technology
One of a girl’s favorite pieces of technology is the cell phone. AT&T and Verizon came out with some cool new phones that seem to have unbelievable abilities. AT&T’s newest phone is the Blackberry Curve 8900. This black phone has voice-guided GPS, a 3.2 megapixels camera and Wi-Fi access. Text messaging capabilities allow sending pictures, videos, and voice recordings quickly, and the use of Instant Messaging through AIM, Windows Live and Yahoo Messenger. Another new phone available at AT&T is the HTC Tilt2. This cell phone has a touch screen front, and a slide-out full keyboard. There is access to full HTML web browsing and mobile email. The Tilt2 also offers Video Share, which is sharing live videos streaming videos with other phones. These new phones are very popular within AT&T and are expected to become more popular after they have been released for a longer period of time.
Verizon Wireless also offers some amazing new phones. One of the new phones is the Blackberry Tour 9630. This phone received four and a half out of five stars by customers according to verizonwireless.com. This smart phone has Visual Voicemail, VCAST music with Rhapsody and Bluetooth capabilities. The buttons of the phone are tilted for faster, easier texting. Verizon is currently offering a deal for buy-one-get-one-free Blackberries. Another new phone is the Samsung Rouge. This phone has a touch screen front and a full keyboard that slides out. The screen is large and easily reacts to the touch of a finger for easy texting abilities. This phone has a Widget toolbar with one touch access to Facebook, Twitter, Myspace and YouTube. The camera, which is more advanced than others, also offers multi-shot picture taking. No matter what network you are on, there is a cool cell phone that will fit your needs and make texting your friends easier for you.
This season has plenty of new and exciting trends for everyone. Whether you are looking for clothes, music, or technology, designers have made something for you. So go treat yourself to some new items or start some early holiday shopping for friends or family. Happy shopping!

But, technology can be frustrating!

 Now almost a decade into the  21st century, the world has witnessed a technological revolution that has given rise to a multitude of other gadgets that have made life more convenient. However, has this technological revolution infected the classroom as well? 

 At times, some teachers assign students projects that are outside the realm of a typical assignment, such as the creation of a video or audio clip. These projects, though intended to be beneficial to students because they offer new avenues of communication, are unfair when they lack necessary prior instruction.

 It is undeniable that teenagers are becoming increasingly adept with technology. However, as mentioned by Mr. Cozort, just because students are technologically skilled does not mean they automatically have the ability to utilize video-making programs that they have never used before.

 Editing a video or creating an audio clip is a complex process to students who are not as tech-savvy as others. Some students, although they may have the knowledge to create an “A-worthy” project, are unable to due to their inability to harness the technology required.

 While it is still appropriate for teachers to assign tech-projects, it is also necessary for teachers to ensure that students have proper instruction so that they may perform the task at hand well. By providing a detailed tutorial, teachers will then enable students to produce higher-quality material.

A Whole New World… of Technology

 For all those techies out there, get ready to expand your playing field. Pres has recently updated a lot of the hardware and software that is available to Presentation students. The new expansion has taken over a year to finish. This school year is the first full year that Creative Suite Four is available. For all of the non-techies out there who have no idea what that means, here is a little explanation.

 Creative Suite Four includes Photoshop, Flash Illustrator (video editing), Sound Booth (paid version of Audacity audio editing), Encore (DVD authoring software), and After Effects (special effects software). These programs will be used for the Film and Media classes that are taught by Ms. Caballero. “The computer technology department is hoping to use these new tools to expand the department’s curriculum,” said Mr. Cozort. Right now Mr. Cozort is teaching an Intro to Computer Graphics course which gives the students a deeper understanding of the technology behind the applications like Photoshop and Adobe Flash.

 There has also been the addition of a new software program called WYNN 5. This software helps students with learning disabilities that inhibit their success here at Pres. This 10-year-old program is now available on every computer. The text-to-speech program focuses on aiding students with reading disabilities. “Any document or book can be scanned and then read out loud to the student,” said Ms. Healy. “The computer illuminates the text as it reads the words out loud. This reinforces visual tracking, which many weak readers often suffer from.” The text-to-speech is just one of the many capabilities of this new technology. The program also helps with other aspects of reading and writing disabilities. It will most certainly be a valued addition to the wide range of Presentation technology.

 With this new technology, there are always inevitably new and more complicated assignments. Almost every student has, at least once, been asked to make a film for a class project. Due to the availability and prevalence of modern technology, “Unfortunately teachers might make the assumption that everyone knows how to use all of the computer applications. This is absolutely not true,” said Mr. Cozort. “You understand the aspects you need to know like your phone or Facebook.” He also explained that there would probably never be a mandatory film class. However, if a teacher wants to assign a film project, it is important that the teacher takes one or two class periods to teach the students how to use the required software. Mr. Cozort also said, “Another possibility would be to implement the skill sets needed into the computer application curriculum. The purpose of computer applications is to prepare students for the outside world, as well as the requirements for student activities here at Pres.” Teaching the basics of Photoshop, Flash Illustrator and Sound Booth would only take a couple of classes. The students would then be able to more fully tap the capabilities of the technology that Pres offers. Mr. Cozort also points out that when a student makes a film for, let’s say, a History or English class, they might discover what they are passionate about and then be able to take more extensive film and media classes.

 There has also been a revamp on the hardware side of Pres technology. “We have been pushing for new computers for the computer lab in Room 1,” said Mr. Cozort. This might have to wait until next summer since all of the computers in Room 14 were replaced this past summer.

 All in all, there is a plethora of technology for the student body to experiment with. Presentation students are very fortunate to be able to have access to all of these new and improved technological advancements. Who knows, there might be the next George Lucas in the class of 2012!

Psychoanalysis…by iPod

Welcome to the new Voice feature, Psychoanalysis by iPod, where our expert reporters play therapists for a day and analyze a member of the faculty by the very scientific method of checking out his or her iPod.  To avoid researcher bias (see, Ms. Teresi, we’re learning!), five songs were randomly selected by continuously pressing the Shuffle button.  This month’s victim, er, patient?  Mr. Case.

The General – Dispatch

This deeply moving and emotional song describes the depression felt by soldiers regarding war. The weariness of the soldiers is portrayed through the descriptive song lyrics and truly shows the extent to which war can emotionally affect a person. In the midst of the depression facing these soldiers, a brave general steps in to save the day, fighting the battle for everyone else and protecting them from further harm. His fearless dedication to the battle is shown in the last line of the song as he tells his troops “Go now, you are forgiven.”

Analysis: It seems that one personality trait of Mr. Case is admiration for those who are brave and dedicated. He honors those who are willing to risk their lives for causes in which they believe.  Or maybe he secretly fancies himself a general.

Creedence Clearwater Revival – Fortunate Son

In this famous song, the lead singer explains that he is not a fortunate or rich man and cannot identify with the rich either, as he thinks that they can’t understand the sacrifices that those who are less fortunate make on their behalf. The singer clearly shows his support for the soldiers fighting in the Vietnam War, though not for the war itself.

Analysis: Once again, this song shows Mr. Case’s admiration of the brave, and it also demonstrates his lack of esteem for the ungracious. So far, Mr. Case’s support for soldiers seems to be strong.

G Love & Special Sauce – This Ain’t Living

In “This Ain’t Living,” the terrible conditions facing the homeless are highlighted, and the disparity in economic conditions seems to truly depress the singer. Destitute and homeless people in this song are told to “help themselves,” but the singer strives to make people understand that this is not always possible. Because of all of the horrendous situations the impoverished are forced to deal with on a daily basis, the singer emphasizes the idea that their lifestyle truly “ain’t living.”

Analysis: It’s clear that social and economic problems facing everyone today are of great concern to Mr. Case. His concern for impoverished people makes clear the distrust Mr. Case feels towards those who ignore people in need.  Fight the power, Case.

Ani DiFranco – Serpentine

“Serpentine” by Ani DiFranco is a melodic song that criticizes the corruption found in corporations and government today. She claims that her “inner pessimist” shows as she mocks the lack of knowledge that people who are in positions in power seem to share and as she mocks voters who are making bad choices off of misinterpreted or little information. DiFranco also complains about how people nowadays seem to be too concentrated on useless, material things, and less about important issues.

Analysis: This song is right up Mr. Case’s alley as it truly brings out his “inner pessimist.” It highlights many of the faults he too finds in humanity today.  But we’re starting to wonder if maybe Mr. Case needs to lighten up and maybe just download some house music.

The Decemberists – Red Right Ankle

The song “Red Right Ankle” by the Decemberists is not your average long song, as its lyrics appear misleading at first. However, as the song progresses, the song writer’s intent becomes clear and the audience learns that the singer is talking about how perfect he thinks his love is and puts a lot of effort into describing her metaphorically.

Whereas “Serpentine” may bring out the inner pessimist in Mr. Case, “Red Right Ankle” does just the opposite, showing that everyone has a warm side (even Mr. Case).

Through this psychoanalysis, a lot about Mr. Case’s personality has become clear. From his anger at the system to his desire for perfect love to everything in between, you now have a more in-depth—and probably totally inaccurate—understanding of the mind behind the tests.

Fall Trend Report: There’s No E.N.D. to These Incoming Trends

Prepare to step out of your comfort box and go on a shopping rampage. This fall will go down in trend history. Designers have created a brilliant, exciting collection of must-haves for this autumn. Apple has worked endlessly to perfect the most convenient MP3 player. Musical artists have strived to create unique and catchy songs. They have all assisted in transforming this year from “just another fall” into unforgettable.  From electronics to fashion, 2009 is exploding with edgy, fun styles sure to be enjoyed by all.

 

Fashion

Fashion, something many girls hold close to their hearts, showcased some great styles during New York Fashion Week. The top fashion trend this year? Plaid. Motorcycle jackets, dresses, and flannel have all been hit with the plaid plague. A clothing item with plaid print is a necessity for this year’s look. Pres girls are of course already way ahead of the fashion world with this trend. Finally the Presentation blue plaid skirt is in. Girls can stand proud in their skirts off campus knowing they are stylish and trendy. Other major trends include the boyfriend jean, zippers, boots, and bright, neon colors. Shoe stores, such as DSW, have dedicated at least eight rows for boots alone. Designers found unusual ways to incorporate zippers on flats, purses, and pants. Boyfriend jeans appear on legs of women throughout America and are sold at most retail stores. The famous Michael Kors had his models strutting a neon pink and neon green dress down the runway. So hit the mall as soon as possible and pick up clothing items of these fierce fashion trends that fit will your style.

 

Music

Many musical geniuses produced top hits this year, but the genre that really took off was pop. According to iTunes’s statistics, “Party in the USA” by Miley Cyrus is the number one most popular song of this fall. This hit single soared to the top of the charts within its first week of release. The second most popular song is “I Got a Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas. It is not uncommon to hear people chanting this catchy tune. Its feel-good vibe attracts many teens to want to listen to it. Third on the charts is “Down” by Jay Sean. This song received 4 ½ out of 5 stars from iTunes listeners. “Down” has an optimistic, loving beat instantly attracting teens. It also helps that the infamous Lil’ Wayne is featured in the song with his 30 second rap segment. Other top pop songs include “She Wolf” by Shakira, “Whatcha Say” by Jason DeRulo, and “Fallin’ for You” by Colbie Caillat.

 

Technology

In order to listen to music, having the essential MP3 player is crucial. Apple’s new iTouch second generation not only allows you to listen to your music without headphones, but includes internet, games, calendars, and even texting.  This all-in-one device is the trendiest and most efficient way to hear your music while communicating with your friends. You can even access the Presentation Voice website and keep up to date with school and other events. The website includes pictures, articles, and even fun quizzes. Check out more at www.presentationvoice.com.

 

If you’re looking for an adventurous, futuristic movie to see, keep your eye out for the upcoming film Avatar. Written by James Cameron, this 3D action packed movie will be unlike any other you have seen. According to Screen Rant, all actors are filmed special bodysuits and head rigs with a standard definition camera that is constantly snapping photos of the actors’ face. The image is then transmitted to another camera that is able to see the actors in their “CG” costumes. “The way we developed the performance capture workflow on ‘Avatar’ is we have our virtual camera, which allows me to, in real time, hold a camera — it’s really a monitor — in my hands and point it at the actors and see them as their CG characters” Cameron says. This movie should be coming to theaters in the summer of 2010.

 

This fall will surely be an explosion of exciting new things. Keep your eyes out for these trends to stay up to date with all the latest fads. Remember, originality is the new pink! So what are you waiting for? Go out, buy, and stay in style!