Project Four

There are many directions we could go with this Japan/ Nuclear Power topic, but I feel to focus on Japan solely would be too restricting.  The topic of Nuclear Power in its entirety would be more effective, I believe.  The Pro/Con approach has the potential to really give viewers an idea of the situation Japan is facing and to make a solid argument for how they should approach it.  Since we wouldn't be limiting ourselves to Japan though, we would be relaying information to students that they could apply to local problems as well, such as the Nuclear Plant on Crystal River or the push for eight more plants in the state. With both sides thoroughly examined, and a subtle push to the side the class takes, discussions can be made between the other students to gather a general consensus of what the college community feels should be done in situations involving Nuclear Power.  Only by considering both sides of a dilema can a solution truly be discovered with good intentions, and not originate on meer opinion often based on altered data.  Hopefully we, as a class, can clarify the problems facing various solutions and guide students to finding truly productive and ingenious solutions to Nuclear problems, such as the hotly debated topic of Japan.

As for the form our presentation should take, a powerpoint would probably be easier to construct.  The only problem faced with this avenue though is how un-personable it is.  Nuclear Power is a problem (or solution) that affects the lives of millions of people, whether directly or indirectly, and should be addressed as much a "human" issue as an "economic" one.  A powerpoint may be a good base for our presentation, but the incorporation of either video or recorded voice would put that "human" touch on the issue, and help us better connect with the audience.  I'm sure everyone here has had to sit through a long powerpoint, you lose interest rather quickly, especially with topics so involved as Nuclear Power.  The incorporation of visuals and different human voices would mix up the presentation, keeping the pace moving and the audience attent to what will happen next.  We should even consider including a few surprises for the audience, little tidbits that aren't normally seen in such a presentation.  Leaving a mark in their minds and letting the issue really penetrate their thoughts, even if briefly.

Those are just my thoughts on the topic.  What will really emerge is yet to be perceived, but will be organic indeed, as is the nature of a group project.  Which is ironic considering how un-natural nuclear power can be perceived, the un-obtainable attempt to control (and manipulate) an ever-changing planet.