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  • Blog Post #3 Navigating Identity and Resilience: Dujuan in the Documentary: “In My Blood It Runs”

    Documentary film “In My Blood It Runs” presents an important vision on the Indigenous subjectivity in the contemporary Australia. This film is a powerful and emotional portrayal of the life of a young Indigenous boy named Dujuan who has to fight for his and his people’s rights in the course of his education in Australia. In My Blood It Runs . (2024). Abc.net.au . https://cdn.iview.abc.net.au/thumbs/1200/zw/ZW2219A001S00_5ef19b17d03bf.jpg Theme: This documentary raises a very crucial social-economic-political issue of culture identity and struggle within the framework of colonialism and current world norms. Through the film, Dujuan, a young Arrernte and Garrwa woman, navigates the educational system that erases and discredit Indigenous epistemologies and pedagogies. The film thus sends the audience an invitation to see the beauty of the Aboriginal culture and the need to keep the culture even in the face of difficulties. (Figure1,Interview with dujian) Theory: Michael Renov in his theory of 2021 divides documentaries into four basic tendencies namely recording, persuading, analyzing and expressing. This theory can be used to explain how ‘In My Blood It Runs’ documents the life and culture of the Dujuan people, shows the struggles of the Indigenous people and then persuades the viewer to care for these social issues. It is also possible to move to the discussion of the specifics of the film and its meaning and effect in the society and culture. The ideas of participatory culture as postulated by Jenkins et al. (2016, p28) can be easily associated with the , ‘In My Blood It Runs’. The movie depicts how Indigenous people are often excluded from the historical and societal discourse yet, through films and other social media, these marginalized voices can be heard. This is consistent with the idea put forward by Leaver and Highfield (2016) of ‘Instagrammatics’, where visual storytelling takes on significance as a way of giving voice to culture and cause. The film however, not only depicts the story of Dujuan but also raises awareness of the viewers to participate in Indigenous human rights and education. Process: I cut this video in a montage technique (Wikipedia Contributors, 2019) way that would depict Du Juan’s life in detail and in close up by using his own footage, interviews of his family and interactions with the community. The videography depicts the beautiful Australian back drop but this is set against the Aboriginal lifestyles, and to enhance the main theme of the video, the use of shots of the landscape with no people in it. This approach does not only reveal the cultural value of this land, but also demonstrate the modern fight against racism and unequal education systems.   (Figure 2, describe Montage Transition) (Figure 3,Pilot film) Conclusion: With “In My Blood It Runs”, the audience is taken through a new kind of travel experience through the Indigenous culture and the current struggles of the community. Through the documentary, the audience can also realize the significance of digital media when it comes to the telling of the Indigenous stories and how different platforms can be used in passing the stories.    The film shows how visual media can communicate with the audience and make them think about the subject of Indigenous concerns. Through the concept of culture of participation provided by Jenkins et al. , the documentary calls the audience to take action regarding the Indigenous rights and education in Australia. Reference: ellewilliams.com . (2023). In My Blood It Runs . In My Blood It Runs. https://inmyblooditruns.com   Media Studies. (2021, February 15). Documentaries - Codes and Conventions . Media Studies. https://media-studies.com/documentaries/   Highfield, T., & Leaver, T. (2016). Instagrammatics and digital methods: studying visual social media, from selfies and GIFs to memes and emoji. Communication Research and Practice, 2(1), 47–62.   https://doi.org/10.1080/22041451.2016.1155332   Jenkins, H., & Shresthova, S. (2016). By any media necessary: The new youth activism.  New York University Press.   Wikipedia Contributors. (2019, September 8). Soviet montage theory . Wikipedia; Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soviet_montage_theory

  • Blog Post #2 Experience a cyberpunk Singapore trip in VR.

    Theme: Visit Singapore in 2016 and be a witness on how the city looks like in the future as being enhanced with technology. Cyberpunk Singapore Tour is a virtual reality tour that will let you explore the future city of Singapore with neon-lit buildings and busy streets. This exhibition presents a technological experience through a form of a story, and by doing so it shows Singapore as a futuristic city with virtual reality. (Figure1, describe four seasons of Singapore and added voiceovers for the corresponding scenarios) Theory: The subject of travel experiences and the role of digital media and the culture of participation was new to me in this week. Leaver and Highfield (2016) introduced the concept of ‘Instagrammatics’ which underscores the significance of the visual social media in writing travel stories. Using sites such as Instagram travellers capture their trip in the form of photos, gifs and emojis to leave an online mark of their journey. This concurs with Jenkins et al. ’s (2015) definition of participatory culture which depicts travelers as active creators of content that defines the image of destinations. The use of the Virtual Reality (VR) technology has been quite well exemplified by Zero Latency VR (2016); this shifts the travel experience in that it makes it possible to virtually tour a destination and also overlays virtual information on actual physical visits to the given destination. Process: Singapore, being the world’s leading smart city, is incorporating AR and VR in every sector of the city (Zoria, 2019). Slowly they are building the cyberpunk style of the future into the setting. In the course of making the video “Singapore’s Cyberpunk Urban Development in the Future and Modern Comparison”, I mainly used the natural footage I recorded, and efficiently used the drone footage received from the platform, and with the help of the CG rendering technique, enhanced the cyberpunk style of the urbanization. This creative method not only illustrates the process of Singapore’s development, but also integrates the cyberpunk elements of the future city from the future’s perspective. Therefore, the combination of the natural scenery and the modern technology leads to the appealing video. (Figure 2, describe VR future trend in Singapore) (Figure 3, Cyberpunk urbanization development) Photography is used to depict the contemporary aesthetic of Singapore’s smart city, and the tendencies of the further development are towards the cyberpunk aesthetic. CG materials are used to demonstrate AR guide technology to help the visitors to follow the tourist to discover the city and enjoy the augmented reality tourism. Automated cars and robots are beneficial to the people by giving them ease and protection. Smart home systems and ubiquitous technology buildings increase the feeling of technology in the city. Singapore is now employing technology to change the face of the city and build a real life cyberpunk environment. (Figure 4,Singapore's Cyberpunk Urban Development in the Future and Modern Comparison) Conclusion: Rethinking travel experiences in Singapore, it is possible to state that the concept of digital media and technology plays a significant role in the contemporary tourism industry. Thus, with the help of visual social media platforms and VR technology, these destinations can offer more interesting and involving experiences for the visitors. It does not only improve the pre-trip preparation but also the on-site activities and the evaluative stage after the trip. The application of “Instagrammatics” enables travelers to post their individual stories, which foster the description of these destinations among the target population. On the other hand, the use of Virtual Reality technology gives the travelers a chance for travelling virtually and to be more interested and involved in the cultural and historical side of Perth and Singapore. This incorporation of the digital media and technology in the travel industry fits into the culture of participation as described by Jenkins et al. Jenkins et al. , 2015) where consumers are not only receivers of the messages but also creators of those messages. In the future, it is possible that advancements in technology will change the way in which we can experience and portray our travels and therefore the tourism industry and cultural interactions may be altered. Reference: Highfield, T., & Leaver, T. (2016). Instagrammatics and digital methods: studying visual social media, from selfies and GIFs to memes and emoji. Communication Research and Practice , 2 (1), 47–62. https://doi.org/10.1080/22041451.2016.1155332 Jenkins, H., Ito, M., & Boyd, D. (2015). Participatory Culture in a Networked Era : A Conversation on Youth, Learning, Commerce, and Politics . Polity Press. Zero Latency VR. (2016, February 2). Zero Latency on Good Game!  YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npqzwqmQcgU Zoria, S. (2019, November 22). 7 Technological Advancements That Make Singapore a Smart City . IoT for All. https://www.iotforall.com/singapore-smart-city

  • 🌿 New Zealand North Island: Perfect 3D2N Getaway! 🇳🇿

    🏞️ *New Zealand South Island: Student-Friendly Car-Free Adventure! 🚶‍♀️ Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch - Explore Christchurch Arrive and settle into the garden city. Visit the Botanic Gardens and enjoy the vibrant street art and local cafes. Day 2: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo - Lake Tekapo Stargazing Travel to Lake Tekapo. Optional: Join a stargazing tour at the renowned Mt. John Observatory for a celestial experience. Day 3: Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook to Wanaka - Helicopter Ride to Glaciers Journey to Mount Cook. Optional: Take a thrilling helicopter ride to the ancient glaciers. Continue to Wanaka. Day 4: Wanaka to Arrowtown to Queenstown - Lavender Farm & Hilton Dinner Visit Wanaka's Lavender Farm, then explore the charming Arrowtown. End the day with dinner at Queenstown's Hilton Resort. Visit the filming location of "Only Cloud Knows." Day 5: Fly Back from Queenstown - Farewell Queenstown Enjoy a final morning in Queenstown before flight back. --- Embark on this unforgettable journey through New Zealand's stunning landscapes and vibrant towns! 🌟

  • Blog Post #1Cultural Authenticity in Travel Photography

    THEMES (TRAVEL BLOG): In an era of globalized tourism, it becomes difficult to distinguish between the real cultural experience and the one packaged for the tourists. Thus, we are placed in a situation where zoos in Malaysia, views in New Zealand, and the travel photos shared on social media are interconnected and form the fabric of contemporary exploration. THEORY: Applying the framework from "Discourse: In the special issue of “Studies in the Cultural Politics of Education” (2015), it is possible to analyze how travel photography and social media sharing affect the construction of cultural discourses. This discourse analysis of the texts brings out how power relations are depicted in the cultural and environmental representation through the tourism prism. The idea of “staged authenticity” in tourism, which is described in the journal, is rather interesting. It implies that what the tourists see and capture in their cameras are tailored versions of the culture, and not the real deal. This staging results in a narrative that can reproduce a number of cliches and reduce cultural experiences to nearly caricatures. SET UP PROCESS: Michael Cook’s “Fake” series (Cook, 2023) presents a similar example to this discourse. Cook forces the viewer to re-examine the concepts of realism and cultural portrayal by pairing high-end brands with Indigenous peoples in the Australian wilderness. His practice makes one think about how much of our travel and the images we really see and how much of it is just staged for an ‘Instagram worthy’ post. When we are scrolling down the beautiful photos of animals in a zoo in Malaysia or stunning sceneries of New Zealand, we are part of the story. These are the questions that come to my mind when thinking about the images that we see and consume about cultures and places, are they real or are they staged and selected to fit the narrative that we want to see. Cook’s subjects are frequently depicted complete with the accessories of the tourist – cameras, outdoor wear, selfies. But as we travel across different terrains and countries, do we get to peel off the skin and touch the core of the places that we visit. CONCLUSION: The problem of the contemporary tourist is how to look for real life behind the pictures, how to interact with people and how to tell the stories that cannot be purchased. Thus, we are able to support a healthier and more empathetic conversation about travel and cross-cultural experiences. REFERENCE: Cook, M. (2023). Fake | Michael Cook (en-AU) Photographer . Www.michaelcook.net.au . https://www.michaelcook.net.au/projects/fake-1 Anwaruddin, S. M. (2015). Why critical literacy should turn to “the affective turn”: making a case for critical affective literacy. Discourse: Studies in the Cultural Politics of Education , 37 (3), 381–396. https://doi.org/10.1080/01596306.2015.1042429

  • Exploring Digital Literacy, Critical Thinking, and Digital Inclusion in the Modern World

    Eduporium Weekly | Defining and Developing Digital Literacy . (2023, February 9). Eduporium Blog. https://www.eduporium.com/blog/eduporium-weekly-defining-and-developing-digital-literacy/ DIGITAL LITERACY ---------------------------------- Importance of Digital Literacy It has now become mandatory to acknowledge that technology competency now includes an ability to function in the contemporary society. Buckingham (2015) has defined digital literacy as the ability to critically appreciate how media works, why it matters and how it establishes the realism. The very concept is rich and multi-faceted which according to Buckingham’s analysis involves five P’s; this research area interests me as it shows that digital literacy is not merely about using particular tools but also being cognizant of social contexts. Broader Scope of Digital Literacy Skills acquired in the education of digital literacy should not be limited to the acquisition of concrete skills. Exploring the media and its characteristics is as important as the usage of the media which suits the ‘big picture’ ideas mentioned by Buckingham. Such a view is more appropriate when focused on Indigenous Australians. Rennie et al (2016) have done a study on the digital divide in Remote Aboriginal communities stressing how use and adoption of technology apparatus either augments or diminishes connectivity to social and economic dynamics. However, due to several social disadvantages, Indigenous Australians are restricted in using technological facilities and therefore, need appropriate ICT promotion. This viewpoint thus affirms Buckingham’s theory while negating it in the same breadth since it brings out the centrality of culture in regard to digital literacy.   Cultural Relevance in Digital Literacy However , cultural background as part of the digital literacy education is a unique feature that expands on Buckingham’s theory. Presumably, the digital literacy education has to be grounded in the community and culturally relevant. This approach defines the digital literacy as the culture and practice that must be provided with the adequate approaches to improvement. This is exemplified by the state of Indigenous Australians’ which indicates that developing solutions for the digital divide requires culturally relevant approaches to be implemented. It stresses the necessity for paying specific attention to social contexts, cultures, and requirements when practicing digital literacy. The concept of digital literacy as a form of cultural practice that is revealed in this paper helps us to advance the utilization of educational technologies in culturally diverse classrooms.   Action Plans for Digital Literacy It is important to note that for increasing the level of development of DL we should use culturally appropriate, communitarian approaches. Implementation of educational programs should exist in a certain social background; digital literacy is a cultural phenomenon. Some of the measurable action plans are the formulation of culturally sensitive ICT programmes, attending to the technological inequity, and assimilating indigenous systems and culture into computer literacy programmes.   CRITICAL THINKING --------------------------------- Significance of Critical Thinking It is substantiated that critical thinking is essential component of the function of an intellectual in the information age. Cottrell (2011) gives much importance in using critical thinking in arguments and valid conclusions. McLuhan’s ‘extensions of man’ interest me , aware of how media technology impacts one’s perception, and interaction with the knowledge as embodied by personal computing.   Critical Thinking in Media of critical thinking alongside media made very essential in the ever emerging information society. Such concentration raises several salient queries pertinent in the analysis of the human interface with the technological in light of McLuhan’s theory, extending beyond the creation of the message to include the effect on the reader. This going with observations on how use of social media influences opinion making as well as debates. Kaldor Public Art Project 32 by Jonathan Jones is one such example that demonstrates critical thinking on how Indigenous knowledge – technology can effectively expose colonialism. Such an approach of critical thinking goes further than the cognition, encompassing cultural and practical way of solving problems, and the capacity to function within the framework of two or more – knowledge forming – cultures.   Enhancing Critical Thinking aspect enriches the definition given by Cottrell of critical thinking since it focuses on respect for other cultures. It implies that critical thinking should consider ideologies not only as sets of reasons for a particular type of behavior, but as a certain perspective on the reality. Thus, this insight helps to advance knowledge of the nature of critical thinking in a multicultural context. Jones’s artworks show how critical thinking is used to challenge the settler colonialism and produce the new Indigenous cultural forms from the combination of Indigenous knowledge and the new Information communication technologies. This approach underlines the necessity to take into account such factors as cultural differences and other types of valuable knowledge during the critical thinking process, when ideas of different cultures interact.   Developing Critical Thinking , it can be concluded that to develop critical thinking, one has to accept multicultural values and orientations. Specific actions discussed are : consuming media products carefully, consuming artwork and literature that does not reinforce the dominant paradigm, and looking for Indigenous and nonwestern perspectives. This approach will create a different focus, more open and wider, to embrace and account for this ‘modern’ mosaique of cultures we live in. DIGITAL ACCESS AND INCLUSION --------------- The Digital Revolution and Its Implications The very rhythm and pace of the digital revolution which the upholders of new media adore bring up some fundamental questions of Media Studies concerning access, social justice and culture . The multifaceted topic of the double digital divide proposed in the paper beyond that of the mere devices’ possession interests me The way how different communities and especially benefit from digital schemes is radically dissimilar and reflects stratification of society.   Factors Contributing to the Digital Divide Some of the main factors of the digital divide are the availability of devices to use internet connection, how the citizens of the country can conduct themselves on the internet and how efficient they are in their utilization of technology. This is in line with findings documenting how different communities take part in the use of digital schemes. The “ Are you lost in the world like me? ” video (2016) is a contemplative piece that illuminates the question of whether technology leads to unity, whether the creator of the artwork seen in the video is human or a sentientificient, as well as the interconnectiveness of the world today. Similarly, in the study by Rennie et al. (2016) involving the use of digital literacy by the remote Indigenous communities, the issue of cultural sensitivity in the use of technologies while proposing the concepts of digital divide is stressed by the authors thus rejecting any overgeneralized approach from the developing countries. Cultural Sensitivity in Digital Inclusion This point of view adds to knowing the availability of technology by adjusting it towards cultural worth and references. It does not endorse the conventional characterization of the digital divide entails the ‘Right Technology’ and ‘Relevant ICT knowledge’ for the eligible communities. The emphasis on the cultural aspect negates the solutions that are deemed to work for everyone proposed by global elites. That is why it is proposed that the positive prospects of the DM include should address the cultural factors, communal activities, and relevancies at the local level. It does so to show that connecting to the digital is not necessarily a technical problem, but could be cultural and even liberatory. This increases the argument that assessment of digital inequalities requires focus on other parameters but the users’ density.   Action Steps for Reducing Digital Inequality  It means that culturally favourable approaches to reduce digital inequality need to be employed depending on the context of the societies. Action steps include: Including conducting need assessments for the digital literacy among community members, designing culturally relevant methods for the promotion of digital literacy, and initiating the policies that would allow everyone to have equal access to the technology. These actions will go to contribution towards making the cause of digital inclusion one that encompasses and uplifts the marginalized groups in the contemporary society. REFERENCE Buckingham, D. (2006). Defining digital literacy – What do young people need to know about digital media? Nordic Journal of Digital Literacy , 1 (04), 263–277. https://doi.org/10.18261/issn1891-943x-2006-04-03   Cottrell, S. (2011). Critical thinking skills: Developing effective analysis and argument.  Palgrave Macmillan .   IFTF. (n.d.). IFTF: 20 Combinatorial Forecasts Map . Legacy.iftf.org . Retrieved July 11, 2024, from https://www.iftf.org/maps/20-combinatorial-forecasts/20-combinatorial-forecasts-map/   Jones, J. (2017). Jonathan Jones, Kaldor Public Art Project 32 - YouTube . Www.youtube.com . https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTsJDv8cZV8Y0xpXssocRmNed50M_rNvW   Moby. (2016). Moby & The Void Pacific Choir - Are You Lost In The World Like Me? (Official Video). In YouTube . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VASywEuqFd8   Rennie, E., Thomas, J., & Wilson, C. (2019). Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and digital inclusion: what is the evidence and where is it? Communication Research and Practice , 5 (2), 105–120. https://doi.org/10.1080/22041451.2019.1601148   Transition21. (2016, September 22). Extensions of Man – Marshall McLuhan . YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mp6jPEX3uFQ

  • "Kuala Lumpur & Melaka: Perfect 3D2N Getaway! 🇲🇾

    Day 1: KL City Walk - Breakfast at Yung Kee Cafe Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Yung Kee Cafe, known for its delicious dim sum and local coffee. The perfect start to energize your KL city adventure. - Durian Feast at Indigo Head over to Indigo for a unique durian tasting experience. Whether you're a durian lover or curious first-timer, this feast promises a memorable culinary adventure. - Shopping at Lot 10 Spend your afternoon exploring Lot 10, a popular shopping destination. From high-end brands to local boutiques, you'll find everything you need for a perfect shopping spree. - KLCC Twin Towers Views Conclude your day with breathtaking views of the iconic KLCC Twin Towers. Capture the perfect photos and enjoy the stunning cityscape as the towers light up the night. Day 2: Melaka Day Trip - Pink Mosque & Putrajaya Lake Embark on a day trip to Melaka, starting with a visit to the beautiful Pink Mosque and a serene boat ride on Putrajaya Lake. The architectural marvels and tranquil waters set a peaceful tone for the day. - Dutch Square & Jonker Street Explore the historic Dutch Square, with its vibrant red buildings, and wander through Jonker Street, famous for its antique shops, street food, and lively atmosphere. - Nyonya Cuisine & Durian Cendol Savor the rich flavors of Nyonya cuisine for lunch, followed by a refreshing durian cendol dessert. This traditional Peranakan food is a must-try for any food enthusiast. Day 3: KL Finale - Bak Kut Teh Breakfast Start your final day in KL with a comforting bowl of Bak Kut Teh, a savory herbal soup that is a local favorite. It's the perfect dish to fuel your morning activities. - Pavilion Shopping Spend the rest of the morning at Pavilion KL, one of the city's premier shopping malls. From luxury brands to gourmet dining, Pavilion offers a comprehensive shopping experience. - Relaxing Thai Massage End your trip with a relaxing Thai massage, easing away any travel fatigue and leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated before you head back home. Enjoy your vibrant and culturally rich journey through Kuala Lumpur!

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