Sunday, January 31, 2010

The Future of Reading?

The article was one of those descriptions of a sad truth. I knew that television had significantly changed how people today read because I had fallen susceptible to the addiction myself. I have rountinely choosen American Idol over a good book. Once an avid reader I have felt myself drift farther and farther away from reading. Other than the mandatory textbooks and school assigned articles, I identify with the the other wise non -reading young person mentioned in the article.I enjoyed that I had first hand experience with the content of the article. I also thought the article was really cool in that it addressed the psychological aspect behind reading. The idea that there are "orals" and "literates" is an interesting concept explored in conversations with Uzbekistan peasants.

The notation system was helpful because I was able to make clear distinctions about what I felt about the major themes of the article. Whether or not I was confused, interested, or opinionated I could isolate that feeling and apply to what I was reading.

Sunday, January 24, 2010

How did I become interested in engineering

I knew that high school classes that weren't math or science related I found uninteresting. I wanted to pick a major where there would be direct applications for the things I would be learning. Engineering is very structured in that you use math and science principles that are pretty concrete but there is room for creativity. Knowing math and physics is helpful but the best engineers create things that no one else ever has. I found the ability to take hard facts and turn them into innovative products that significantly affect the lives of people not only exciting but challenging. An engineer can make practical products like washing machines but can also entertain the masses with ipods and the newest game systems. However, what I like the most about engineering science is its versatility. Engineers design anything from missles used in warfare to clean water systems in third world countries. Science and technology can also help with some of the worlds biggest problems.I like how today's engineering science is becoming responsive to the issue of creating a healthier planet earth. Innovation is moving towards efficiency and conservation and science is making it all possible.