Research Plan: Motives in Playing MMORPGs

Diving into the second week of my research plan, I'm determined to complete my research piece this week. My goal is to shape the research behind my driving question, "Why is an individual motivated to continue playing MMORPGs for a long period of time?" Luckily, I've been casted with an intrinsic motivation spell. I'm going to start … Continue reading Research Plan: Motives in Playing MMORPGs →

Technology is Not a Person

While celebrating my birthday dinner at Cask Bar + Kitchen with my husband, I indulged in a great conversation and a delicious plate of lamb nachos. As we waited for our food, I mentioned a TED talk by Sherry Turkle: Connected, but alone? that I watched in the morning on my way to work. I glanced around the … Continue reading Technology is Not a Person →

“Life Online” & the Impact on Students

There are many ways students can pursue a "life online." Students of all ages use virtual environments, which can include virtual worlds like PokemonGo, Kim Kardashian: Hollywood, or Penguin Club. Students also use social media as another form of taking a "life online." In 2007, I was a freshman in college and none of my professors in the … Continue reading “Life Online” & the Impact on Students →

Will Education Capitalize on Big Data?

Many educators are weary of using big data in the classroom. I can see why and empathize with many educators. Looking at the bigger picture, there are many decisions that need to be made about the fundamental use of big data by social and cultural researchers. Six provocations for Big Data, by Boyd and Crawford, examines quantitative … Continue reading Will Education Capitalize on Big Data? →

Technology Determinism: Are you Soft or Hard?

I wish I could express that I have a clear stand about this everlasting debate, technology determinism. Perception and narratives play a huge role in this discussion. Therefore, be prepared to be confused. I love the way one of my classmates, Abby, comically puts technology determinism in its place, "What came first the chicken or the egg?" Based on … Continue reading Technology Determinism: Are you Soft or Hard? →