Using multimedia tools in order to get a message across is the newest greatest thing. It is so exciting having so many ways to get a point across, help people learn, or keep everyone updated. One example that came to my mind immediately was the Winter Web Cam. My whole family has been in love with this dolphin since the first movie. My son HAD to see Dolphin Tale 2 when it came out. Once we left the movie, he said it was a motivational movie that made him want to get a job as a Marine biologist to help save animals. This is coming from a seven year old boy, who spends most of his days having all his toys fight and shoot things. One of the best aspects about the movie, other than the actual story of course, is the communication the fans can have with the dolphin. If you haven't seen the movie, the children put together a fundraiser to save the aquarium. By using multimedia, they are able to bring in hundreds of people to the event and even more online were watching. One of the tools they used was a webcam (found at
http://www.seewinter.com/animals-exhibits/meet-animals/live-web-cams-0). The children set the webcam up so that online viewers could actually watch the dolphin swim around the tank at their leisure. For children like my son, this was absolutely amazing. The dolphin in the movie came to life to him and gave him motivation to research sea life. Multimedia tools give us all the opportunity to get information out, without too much trouble. The one thing I always try and point out is the use of moderation. No matter how much technology improves our lives, it is important to keep in mind that our purpose in life is to love one another and help each other grow. Although technology allows us to do this, it also can distract us. I came across a picture awhile back that I love to share.
If we are not careful, media will change us too much. Things like the Winter Web Cam are amazing, but human interaction is just as important.
