Definition of the Mass Media

This is my 2^nd blog for my Intro to Mass Communications class.

                This class is all about the mass media and mass communication.  The book states that mass media are technologies that carry messages to a large number of people.  Prime examples of mass media are the telephone, the television, the radio, and the internet.  Every person owns at least one of the previous listed items, and thus they rely on such to gain access to lots of information.  The process by which information is given and received by the audience and mass media is called mass communication.  With all the different technologies that we use as mass media, we are involved in mass communication as often as we even breathe.  Mass Communication is a huge aspect of our lives.

                Technology and the media grow and become more advanced over time.  Therefore, mass communication constantly revolutionizes like never before.  Hundreds of years ago, the only means of communication was by word of mouth or written letters, transported via horseback, which would take days or even weeks to reach out.  With the inventions of trains, automobiles, and airplanes, messages could be transported much faster.  Later, mass communication was revolutionized with the invention of the personal computer and the internet.  Written letters were less reliable, since people could just send emails over the World Wide Web, so they could reach their destinations almost instantly.  However, advancements in technology made way for much broader means of communications.  People wanted to become instantly connected with information and other people from around the world.  The development of online chat rooms and webcams allowed people half a world apart to communicate with each other.  Websites such as MySpace (not anymore), Facebook, Twitter, and various blogs have allowed a person to instantly let large amounts of people know various information, and even receive feedback. 

                Without Mass Communication, we could still be like cavemen!  Mass Communication is a part of our lives like the hair on our head (if you’re bald, you should know what I mean anyway).

Self Introduction

This is my first blog for my Intro to Mass Communications class at school.

My full name is Matthew Douglas Cooper.  Some people call me Matthew, Matt, or Cooper, but most of my friends call me by my convenient nickname, Coop.  I was born at the hospital in New Albany, Mississippi, but I’ve lived near a town called Blue Springs all my life.  I attended North Pontotoc Attendance Center all the way from day one of kindergarten to high school graduation.  I’m currently at Itawamba Community College, with plans to transfer to Mississippi State University, majoring in Broadcasting and Public Relations.  My parents’ names are Jeff and Kim, and I have two younger sisters.  Morgan is 18 years old, and Makenna will be 8 in about two weeks.

I have changed in so many ways over the years, so it’s very difficult to summarize myself into a silly, little blog.  I guess I can start off with my favorite hobby: music.  I’ve been around music my whole life. My sister Morgan and I were practically raised on a tour bus for several years when my mom was part of a big local gospel quartet back in the mid-90s.  I joined the school band in sixth grade, playing trombone and not knowing where it would take me.  Through marching band, I’ve attended several honor band clinics, I’m currently in the band at ICC, and I’ve developed a sharp mind for music theory.  About 3 years ago, I basically picked up a bass guitar and performed in front of my church in a matter of only 4 days!  I currently play bass at my church, the Baptist Student Union and Wesley Foundation at school, and a praise band with some college friends called Facing East.  I’ve even been able to write my own songs, thanks to marching band.  My preference of music styles have even changed over the years.  I’ve always been a fan of gospel and contemporary Christian music.  I was once an die-hard country music fan.  I even went through a rap phase (biggest mistake ever).  Recently, I’ve begun listening to hardcore and metal music, and I’ve developed a liking to it.  Lately, I’ve taken a great liking to Christian rock, Christian hardcore, and Christian metal, with bands like Kutless, Red, August Burns Red, Demon Hunter, Underoath, and several more.  No matter the genre, I have a passion for music.

I'm experienced in Drafting and Design, and I originally wanted to pursue a career in either Architecture or Civil Engineering, before I switched to the Communications field.  I also enjoy playing sports.  Two sports in which I’m a novice are Ultimate Frisbee and Disc Golf.  I’m not very skilled, but I improve every day.

I’ve saved the best news for last: I’m a Christian.  I attend By Faith Baptist Church in Pontotoc.  I believe that Jesus Christ came here to die on a cross for all the sins of the world.  Because of His love, I will show love to others, no matter who they are.  For a few years now, my mantra has been, “keep the faith, crush the idols,” meaning that I will do my best to not give in to the evils of the world and stay focused on the God who gave me breath and the many talents and abilities that I’ve acquired over the course of my life.