Last week, we discussed our final project proposals and received feedback from one another. Although I feel that my project proposals are much more elementary than the others, I still have some positive feedback from a few of my ideas. I’ve essentially narrowed it down to two ideas: the humorous educational sketches and analyzing data visualization of various networks. I really like the first idea of creating humorous, yet informative shows on Youtube, mostly because it would take form of a pilot script rather than a paper. I realize that I would also have to write about my project no matter what, but executing the former idea seems a lot more enjoyable than the latter. Thus, I have decided to choose my final project to be about creating humorous educational sketches on Youtube.
The information about the project is on the Etherpad, but I will reiterate. Basically, with the popularity of humorous youtube videos featuring sketch comedy, I feel it would be interesting to look into creating such videos that bring important messages. Whether the messages themselves be political, health-related, or about current global trends, it would be possible to generate a subscriber audience that watches funny youtube videos. Silly jokes would still be present, but the overall goal of these videos would be to inform the audience of important issues and trends. This project would most likely take the form of a long term plan for videos, with the script for a pilot episode.
The most significant feedback (and setback) I received last meeting was the mention of similar shows. I’ve watched a few and I completely agreed with that anonymous sentiment. Why would I create an online show if there are so many others? The difference with my vision is that I aim to attract those who normally would not study. When bored teenagers or those who are economically disadvantaged have the chance to go on the internet, they don’t tend to head straight to the Khan Academy or SciShow. Instead, those with limited media access will go on Facebook, browse the internet, or watch silly Youtube videos. My idea is to integrate social media with my humorous (yet educational) video sketches. I am currently not sure exactly HOW I will accomplish such a marriage, but I know it will solve multiple problems. For one thing, it will expose the Youtube channel to those who access Facebook and other social media sites, which take up an increasingly large amount of browsing time. In addition, my shows will hopefully both entertain and inform those who would normally not watch educational videos. I aim to increase literacy in all fields, from Biology to Physics to possibly Civic Media. An educated population is a long term investment, with dividends that will not be seen for years to come. However, I wish to accelerate and magnify such results with my humorous educational videos by targeting those who are least likely to strive for education. Essentially, I am practicing a Trickle Up theory with education.
