Entering into this course, many did not know what to expect. Little did we know, we were enrolled in one of the best courses Ryerson has to offer. New Media allows one to be free in thought; we are not told what to think as much as we learn how to think for ourselves.
Each week, we put our creativity and imagination to the test as we explore what is involved in New Media. Imagination and creativity are key to keeping an open mind, ready for new ideas and enjoyment towards a new project. Where does this state of mind come from? Our childhood, of course !
As children, we are exposed to many different situations and have the world as our playground. When we played at the park, interactions with others opened our minds to imagination; the thought of magic, animals being able to talk, being able to fly, imaginary friends and several other conclusions. Play can result in conflicts among other children which will eventually lead to problem-solving skills. Children play with anything available to them; making toys out of scraps of any materials that could make a toy. These toys taught us how to interact with others while learning how to make something out of nothing. This could act as a life lesson as well, making the most of any situation. A child’s development is key in figuring out their interests and wishes of what they want to be when they’re “grown up”. In our earlier stages, we realize there is a world of possibilities as imagination and curiosity begin to shape our world. Ever notice how our decisions often link to our childhood dreams and aspirations? For example, ‘How did you know you wanted to be a Vet? ’ .. ‘Well, ever since I was a kid, I loved animals’. As for adults, they are able to learn quickly about a child’s problems by the way they act when they’re playing and are able to help solve those issues.
Play is developing imagination and creativity within a fun environment where one can let out their personality and explore the many possibilities within life. It is the idea of escaping from everyday stresses of life. It is the act of make believe or amusement. It can be anything you want it to be based on your experiences.
Throughout this course however, students of New Media will use play as their source of creativity and imagination towards numerous projects. We have already used play as we went into the world and asked what Torontonians’ “perfect world” was; realizing that school work could be interesting and enjoyable. New media projects must have an aspect of play and enjoyment in them as they must catch interest of the viewer.
Play is essential in anyone’s life as it relieves stresses, brings a smile to one’s face, and simply provides entertainment to children or adults.
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Sources:
http://social.jrank.org/pages/492/Play.html
http://www.angelfire.com/musicals/mlec_theater/plot.htm
http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/tim_brown_on_creativity_and_play.html
Lila Pine- Summary of Play – https://mpm17fall2009friday.wordpress.com/
Oxford English Dictionary Definition
Nathalie Rodriguez- statement on “What is play”
Joanna McLeod’s perspective
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