Thursday, March 12, 2009

Reflection: Weeks 7 & 8

I took this photo when I traveled to visit relatives in Austin, Texas in March of 2008.

Class Happenings
This week in class, we learned about a plethora of issues ranging from carcinogenic chemical exposure to water privatization. We watched two documentaries, completed an eye-opener activity, and discussed two readings.

Brilliant Blogging
Well, eight weeks into the course, I have really come to appreciate the blogging format. I hear my classmates talking about their struggles with having a major portion of the course online, but I really find it easy and flexible. I appreciate the fact that there are no tests, papers or written-assignments. I feel that we are able to gain a lot more from the course through blogging rather than being forced to memorize random facts for an examination. I heart blogging!

Environmental Exposure
Most of our environmental exposure this week was related to chemical exposure and water privitzaton. Both of these issues aren't always directly correlated with the environment until we take a deeper look at them. I feel that we have a long ways to go in protecting our environment from chemicals, but at least we are making a start! I have a feeling that water privitization is going to be an increasingly important topic in the media and it is something that we need to pay attention to.

Personal Paradigm
It is really hitting home how much everything around me affects my own environment. I can't help but stop and think about how every little action of mine affects the environment in one way or another. I feel that my paradigm related to conserving the environment has moved from a pessimistic to an optimistic stance. I would rather strive for change that might be effective than sit back and assume that there is nothing I can do that would significantly improve our environment.

About Me

My photo
Lauren is currently a senior at the University of Minnesota Duluth, where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Community Health Education and a minor in Biology. During her free time, she enjoys the outdoors, cooking, and reading intriguing books.