Blog Rubric
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Exceptional. The entry is focused and coherently integrates
examples with explanations or analysis. The entry demonstrates awareness of
its own limitations or implications, and it considers multiple perspectives
when appropriate. The entry reflects in-depth engagement with the topic. Multimedia (video, graphic, chart, audio, etc.) use
significantly enhances blog presentation
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Satisfactory. The entry is reasonably focused, and explanations or
analysis are mostly based on examples or other evidence. Fewer connections
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fully developed. The entry reflects moderate engagement with the topic. Multimedia use moderately enhanced blog presentation
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Underdeveloped. The entry is mostly description or summary, without
consideration of alternative perspectives, and few connections are made
between ideas. The entry reflects passing engagement with the topic. Multimedia use is limited in the blog entry.
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Limited. The entry is unfocused, or simply rehashes previous comments, and
displays no evidence of student engagement with the topic. Little to no multimedia
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No Credit. The entry is missing or consists of one or two
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ReplyDeleteIt was truly a pleasure to have been a part of our English class this semester. This course has been both eye opening and interesting with the vast variety of films we watched and analyzed. I learned so much about the African American race in America and how we have grown as a whole but even still fight for the respect we deserve in our justice system. What I enjoyed the most was towards the end of this semester when we began to watch current TV shows like Queen Sugar and Luke Cage, I also enjoyed making our short films and watching other groups films in the course as well. Advice I would give to upcoming students embarking in this course would be to make sure you arrive on time for class session and read all your assigned readings to be content in the discussions during class. I believe that viewing more current TV shows and movies would increase class participation. Overall I would recommend Dr. Jackson's course to anyone who enjoys thinking critically and addressing important issues in society and I loved being apart of this course.
ReplyDeleteI absolutely agree! If you're a student who enjoys thinking critically, then English 318 is for you. Dr. Jackson encourages her students to think critically and to contextualize everything. Embracing my blackness further is what this course had done for me. I now watch various television shows and movies more critically. Sometimes I find it difficult to watch and immediately start laughing. I have Dr. Jackson to thank for that. Now, friends and relatives find it difficult to watch movies with me as well. I can't help it though. I've loved this thought provoking course.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI did not know what to expect when i took this class, but I'm glad some of my assumptions were way off. I expected the class to be history oriented. The class was but it also focused on current aspects and future aspects on black culture and film. I like the flow of the class in how things that I've been watching for years are broken down and analyzed. Each movie, video, or reading we've had has opened a new perspective as to how I view certain things. For suggestions of materials I only have movies and not readings. "Freedom Writers" "He got Game" and "Mississippi Damned" and "Lakeview Terrace". I think that their will be a lot to analyze through these movies for as black aspects. The only advice I would give to future English 318 students would be to read all the readings that are assigned so that class will not be boring and to analyze everything that they are into and see how different people are treated.
ReplyDeleteI knew that when I registered for this class that I was in for a semester that would challenge my everyday perceptions. I don't think I've taken a class that has impacted me on such a level and left me with a new way of thinking or seeing things. I always register for one of your classes thinking we're going to be studying something completely opposite of what we really delve into during class. Every time I leave with something valuable, from Hip-Hop Discourse, to Advanced Composition, to now African-American Film and Culture. We speak about topics so relevant to our everyday lives and learn about the history and accomplishments of our people, which leaves me feeling pretty badass. Because now I feel like I can add to that legacy or at least educate others on it, and really inform them on what is fact versus what the media or the government wants us to believe. The most impacting part of the semester was definitely watching the Black panther video and really learning about an organization I knew very little about. It also exposed me to the shadiness of the American government and left me scrutinizing everything i see in the media. I think I can speak for most people in the class when I say that this class was definitely rewarding, and not what I expected it to be. The only suggestion I'd really have for the future is some better wifi, and maybe a little more films. I feel like there was so much more to know and not enough time. The advice I'd give to the future students would be to make sure you attend class, do the readings, and participate in discussions. The experience will be way more rewarding if you're active; you will feel it more.
ReplyDeleteUpon signing up for this course, I really had no clue that this course would be so eye-opening. I honestly thought that we were just going to discuss typical black films but this course was really like a history class. We've had numerous deep discussions about topics such as Birth of a Nation, the Black family, the Black Panther Party, how Blacks are depicted in the media, how blacks are treated in America and so much more. Although I had already seen majority of the films and short clips that we watched, I really enjoyed re-watching them because I never sat and critically thought about the films/clips like we did in class. I liked how we always tied our lessons into things that are still relevant to today. Some advice that I would give future students would be to definitely make sure that they stay on top of the reading assignments so they will be prepared for class discussions. Also, I would recommend attending every class period so you wont fall behind, as this course is fast moving. Overall, this was a fun, informative course that I would recommend for anyone to take.
ReplyDeleteThis class was truly unlike any courses I've ever taken previously and I was surprised at the direction it went, in a good way. I thought it would be more like the film classes I'd taken before like others had mentioned, focused on the history of black film. I like the discussions though, and the readings we did really reinforced what we learned in class as well as fostered conversation outside of the classroom. Most classes on film don't go as in depth into how black film influences our culture and I liked that Dr. Jackson took that approach. Of all the things we watched I enjoyed the 13th and Luke Cage the most- the 13th is hands down the best documentary I have ever seen.
ReplyDeleteI would recommend watching Dope, Black-Ish, Fruitvale Station, The Fits and The Get Down, and for future students I would definitely say take notes on EVERYTHING from the readings and movies. Things you don't pay attention to are more than likely on the test.
Honestly, when I took this class I thought it would be like the English class that I took previously. In that class we basically just watched a film then wrote a paper with our analysis. I enjoyed watching the 13th as well but I also enjoyed watching Pariah. Pariah really focused on the expectations from a religious African American family in the church. I believe this film is the reason why I keep analyzing the African American films that I watch today.
DeleteThis is one class that actually made me think deeper about movies and how they could influence society. I would have never thought that we would actually dig this deep into a movie and analyze every single aspect. The readings were long but they were very informative and they went in depth and made you question everything. Lastly, I am so glad we watched the 13th because it made laws much more clearer and taught me things I would have never thought about. I would recommend this class for all students no matter what their major is because it is truly eye opening.
ReplyDeleteOverall, I have enjoyed this class deeply. I thought it was very important and beneficial to offer detailed looks into the history behind blacks in media. This was an elevated course that required individuals to push their boundaries of self-limitation. I enjoyed all the analytical exercises. I truly appreciated this aspect. Another aspect that was very impressionable on me, was the fact you did not solely keep it to film. You were able to uncover and have conversations that exposed the reality of blacks America in the political and social worlds. I hope to continue to follow the readings of Bell Hooks and be a patron of more Ava DuVernay projects. It was more than just a film class; it was a teaching lesson. Thank you so much, Dr. Jackson! Honestly, I have no suggestions on improvements.
ReplyDeleteMy advice to future students is to come with an open mind and the willingness to learn. Since staring my college career, I have rarely had classes that impacted me, this was one of them. Hands down, this was my favorite class of the semester. Take everything taught in this class seriously, this isn’t information to take jokingly or lightheartedly. Come prepared with the ability to work and comprehend the information. It is indeed a rarity to have such a great opportunity.
-Sage Wallace-Williams
Bell Hooks and Movies: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQUuHFKP-9s
Overall I enjoyed the class. Although an undergraduate course, I felt like I learned more in this course than I have in my graduate courses. The class focused on African American film, but gave a lot of background on the history of African American inequality. I think it is important for you to keep the history segment in the class , because for a student to understand whats going on in black films, they need to know the history behind it.
ReplyDeleteI would say that I would have liked to discuss more about the civil rights movement and BPP a little bit more. We watched the documentary and saw some clips. But I feel as if we had more time it would have been interesting to watch more about that time era , comparing it to how we handle and protest inequalities today.
Also you introduced me to Bell Hooks. Before this class I have never really read any of Bell Hooks work. Bell Hooks is a genius, the way she breaks down and critiques things opens your eyes to looking at films differently.
I also would suggest maybe next year adding The Get Down and Insecure from HBO to the list. The use of poetry in The Get Down is amazing , I feel like it captures the essence of black youth in the 70s.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1SZoWjkdEg
- TJ
I agree the Get Down is a good example of showing the black youth in a positive light and will be very enjoyable for the next class to come.
DeleteThis semester, this class has been enjoyable from the various films and articles that we've watched and discussed. Each film & discussion I've participated in, has opened and altered my mind and challenged me to view things differently previous to this course. One of the most interesting topics in the course was learning about Assata Shakur. I wasn't aware how deeply involved she was in the Black Panther party, and what intrigued me the most was finding out she was related to the late rapper, Tupac Shakur. After "future.. student" insert this: take the time to learn about the black panther party because it's a huge significance as an African American in our culture & generations to come needs to be informed by us.
ReplyDeleteBefore taking this class, if you were to ask me about the Disney Channel show "The Proud Family," I would have told you that it was my favorite show growing up. After taking this class, if you were to ask me the same question, I will tell you that the show is racist. Like discussed in class, I believe that the show had subliminal racist messages. For example, the main character in the show was Penny Proud. Penny was light skinned, had two working parents, a nice home and long hair. However, her best friend Dijonay Jones was dark skinned, had several siblings, her parents were never around and she always acted loud and over the top. Just like I analyzed this show, after taking this class I find myself analyzing all African American films and shows. It has gotten so bad that I have to figure out how to stop analyzing the things I encounter and tone it down.
ReplyDeleteOverall I believe that you graded a little hard but beyond that I definitely enjoyed the class! From this class I learned stuff that was never taught in high school and stuff that as African Americans we are expected to learn on our own. In addition, I always wondered why African American films never received the same recognition and promotion as “White Films” did and by being in this class I discovered the answer. In conclusion, I enjoyed how films were not just the focal point of the class but we learned about African American history as well.
For those who are interested in taking the course next semester, please make sure that you are prepared for class by doing all that Dr. Jackson asks of you and also that you are prepared for the exams. The exams are no joke and they are extremely difficult. In conclusion, please come to class with an open mind as well as understand the fact that not everyone will agree with your ideas so you have to be respectful of their opinions.
There is a show called "Underground" that comes on WGN and I would highly recommend that your students next semester watch this show for class. This show is about slaves who escape from a plantation but also in the show it illustrates the house slaves, the slaves who thought they were better than others as well as how much power African American women had over their slave owners when it came to sex. I would also highly recommend the film "Mississippi Damned as well." This film is on Netflix and I think you and your class will enjoy it. Below I have attached trailers for both of the items recommended.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nOEUogI7pQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bA5f47ihycs
This class was an interesting experience. Everyday presented a new conversation and different outlook on life. The class really has a way of opening the eyes of people who choose to ignore or remain ignorant of how society has been built against the black body and how the evidence of that is displayed in our film culture. In the movie "A Birth of a Nation" we see how one of America's first blockbusters was an inaccurate and racist display of black people. This film continued to be the dominating display of black people until it was countered by "Within Our Gates" which showed black people as doctors and teachers. Also in readings and Ava Duvernay's films we learned how to think critically and view films with an oppositional gaze. Being able to hear how my classmates responded to the films and discussions also a loud a person to diversify their thoughts on how films are constructed. Puria also displayed an accurate but slightly out of date veiw of an African-american family. This movie brought forth still releavant stereotype of black families such as the cooking mother or the working father. The class was very enriching but the test where extremely difficult due to the fact that the questions called for highly specific answers that where glossed over in film or class. Many questions left me confused and unsure of what it was asking.
ReplyDeleteTo start, I really have enjoyed english 318 class this semester. This class opened my eyes and i know many others into the world from the past to present. Watching videos gave insight and showed visuals of the African American culture which i loved coming to class to do. I learned about groups and people that love to hate the black community but the funny thing is African American never gave up. Activist in the black panther party was really influential such as Huey Newton. I believe Huey stood for a big movement and uprising in the black communities. I think the test in the class was challenging. Watching the old Birth of a Nation represented African Americans to be barbaric and dehumanized us. I actually went to the movies to see the new Birth of A Nation, which was a really good and accurate representation of the African American culture around slavery. I would recommend other upcoming students to sign up for this class.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed this class a lot this semester! It was very eye-opening, and self reflecting. "Woke" wouldn't be the term for what I am throughout blossoming in Film & Culture, but I am more conscience of our history as African Americans and what is happening in our present lives, and maybe even in the future. I would really hope that for your next class, you have more video film projects and maybe even touch bases with a lot of modern videos as well as modern black directors and producers. A lot of the people we went over, we did not know very well although it was a pleasure to get to know who they are. The assignments made us think very critically, however I would say they weren't very engaging. Most were, but the long videos and long chapters we had to read in class made me struggle a little bit with keeping my focus and answering questions thoroughly. Other than that, the class was very enlightening and very inspiring! I now have an idea on what I would like to write more about in my future writing career because of this class.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. Sometimes we tend to lose focus when we aren't able to connect with directors who are not from our time or it would better help us to stay focused if some of the activities were more engaging and not long pages to read. I do believe that this course was well put together and I learned a lot as you did. I know analyze every film or TV show I watch trying to figure out what message am I trying to be convinced of. This was a great class.
DeleteI really enjoyed this class, it was lots of valuable information, that I am going to take with me forever. the black panther party stands out the most to me. I feel like I been misinformed about them my whole life. it was mind blowing to see that many black people come together for a cause. I did not think that was possible, I wished the panther party was ready to die for it an shoot and kill just like the cops was doing them. I feel like it would have been a new change instantly. To the new students arrive on time an read all your assignments to discuss them in class those was some good times. I do recommend watching 90's shows and comparing them to the 2000's I think you will find major differences. everything we watched or read made us think critically a challenge that was new to me. I like the flow of class from assignements to videos it make the class flow better. this was one of my favorite classes of all time.
ReplyDeleteI also feel as though I was misinformed about much of our history or maybe even just now taught enough so I didn't know much. This class let me see for myself that the BPP was amazin and although there might have been a few radicals and at times it wasn't organized, it was a force to be reckoned with. I love the assertion and threat that they gave...
DeleteClasses like this you get to learn the real side life, film, even things written in text books. before going into this class, I always wondered "what's the other side of films?" I would watch movies and question so many things that this class answered for me. The only thing I didn't like is the constant feel of having to maintain a good grade. I feel like we focus don't fully on diving deep into the readings and films because we want to pass. Any new students COME IN WITH A OPEN MIND you cant look at things with a closed mind. Come in with thoughts and questions even if you feel like they might be stupid. lastly, read the material.
ReplyDeleteIn terms of this eye-opening course, I believe that I have been opened up to a new world of critical thinking when it comes to my own race. Not that I have not understood before what contributions Blacks have made to society as well as obstacles that Blacks have faced in society, but this class has given me a new perspective on it all. Honestly, as bad as it may seem, African American history and the culture of Blacks have been talked down on when it comes to a higher education degree for one reason or another but for more reasons unknown, this class has allowed me to branch out of my thinking that the learning of my own race was a negative thing. Were as a few of my professors only teach of the Caucasian race and the things they may have down with in history and the literary culture, from being in this class, I know have a wider selection as well as vaster appreciation for those African American greats who came before me. Also, being a part of this class has made me realize how strongly I feel of being part of something of revolution to free Blacks and all that they face.. I know the million dollar question is "are you willing to die for the cause?" and although I am not completely sure about that, I still want to be part of something that is much bigger than me that will help my people. Regardless of what we think, we are stronger and threat to many and we can use that in our advantage. I do not have many new ideas for you to use because I think that your class has provided me with everything and more and I know that it will do the same to the next person, but I do think that you should show or talk about the film below. It is on Netflix for easy access:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.ifcfilms.com/films/the-black-power-mixtape
Advice for future students: do not wait to the last minute to do readings or assignments, they are actually talked about deeply in class! Also, when you all are doing your film, be creative and have fun! It's your project so use it and make something amazing.
Thanks Deneisha! I added this one to the list already!
DeleteI wanted to say that I have completely enjoyed this class. I learned so much and I was actually shocked at what I learned because I did not expect it to be this type of course. By that I thought we were going to watch movies and then analyze films, but we did more than that. We understood them, we dissected them. We talked about what the film is trying to convey to its audience. At this point I now do this with all of the films I watch from this point forward. My favorite film in this course was Queen Sugar, I did not know that there was something like this out there and although I have not been able to watch pat the first episode, My eagerness to want more and to understand has grown. My second favorite part was creating the film with my group. It was honestly a little difficult at first, but once we got what we wanted to do, we were good to go. There were so many things we wanted to focus on, but we knew we had to bring it back and focus on one thing to get the message across effectively. One thing I would suggest being added to the course would be to maybe take the class to see a current film in theaters that is related to the topic of discussion. It's just something fun that keeps the class interested along the way. Some advice I would give to the next class would be to come in with an open mind. Do not assume that you know what this course holds because you be left in the beginning wondering why we don't talk about this when you could be soaking up all the information that this course holds. Again I completely enjoyed this course and I would honestly do it again.
ReplyDeleteAn example of a film we could have seen in theaters:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mw-Rhm8OIw
This has been one of my favorite classes that I have taken at A&T. This class really challenged me to pay attention to detail and realize that everything is not as it seems at first glance. I enjoyed the fact that our opinions mattered and were heard throughout the duration of this course and that we pass or fail based on our own implication and understanding of the material. In other classes, there aren't many opportunities to really be involved in what information we learn but also still be held accountable for the things we choose. I enjoyed the most recent mini movie "The Door" the most. I seriously showed it to my entire family over Thanksgiving break.
ReplyDeleteIn terms of new material, I would suggest "The Get Down" from netflix. I know we spoke a little on this show and I am sure some of my fellow classmates have already suggested it but i think that it would definitely bring up some very good conversations. I believe you really pick apart the female roles within the show and how they are depicted. Another suggestion would be Remember the titans and the juxtaposition of the white and black characters. I think that would be interesting.
For students in future classes I would say to READ THE MATERIAL AND WATCH THE ENTIRE CLIPS that you post on blackboard. I would also suggest to break out of any reservations as soon ass possible because it makes the experience so much better. Lastly pay attention to very small details in movies and TAKE NOTES IN CLASS. The tests were difficult and took some real preparation.
Attached is a clip from remember the titans that I think could cause some conversation because it shows an african american in an intelligent fashion. The end of the clip is just beautiful. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1fObGRqArI
Dani, I laughed at your Thanksgiving film selection! Love it! And, you along with several others like Tequille have suggested The Getdown. I actually watched an interview the other day with DJ Kool Herc and his consultation on the show. I'll catch up on my episodes & definitely consider including it next semester. Thanks!
DeleteMy advice for future students is to bring your A game, because Dr. Jackson is not with it! Students should come to each class and on time, especially if you plan on doing well on her tests. I would also encourage students to dispel the notion that multiple choice means easy. This is hardly the case. I’ve learned to contextualize everything and to look at a piece of work from many different angles. I’ll admit some days, I’ve even left class feeling quite militant, ready to start a revolutionary war. Then, I’m reminded by something Dr. Jackson asked a former student, “Are you ready to die?” The answer is not quite. However, I do believe that knowledge is power and that education, is a black person’s best friend. Honestly, coming back to school, was the best decision I could have made. In closing, reading, Bell Hook’s “Loving Blackness as Political Resistance, was my favorite read in this course. If we as blacks learn to come together, we can begin to dismantle paradigms. I’m all for embracing my blackness fully. Also, Ava DuVernay is one bad mama jama, with pride, I read the following tweet over and over as she unapologetically addressed President elect Donald Trump.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.essence.com/news/ava-duvernay-checks-donald-trump-hamilton
When I signed up for this class i anticipated an easy A. I enjoyed the class even though it was not what I expected. I thought there would be more films and alot less reading. One of the concepts I have come to appreciate though is actually paying attention and reading more. I say this because I feel like there is more to everything than what is seen or heard. I always feel like when the whole class is involved it makes the environment better. Thats one major thing its not really a class if half of the class participate and half does not. I would say try to engage more of the students in the readings because looking back I wish I would have payed more attention to the readings.
ReplyDeleteI agree , i didn't know we were going to be giving so much information,but i enjoyed that as well. This class really opened up my eyes on how society views black people and how important it is to continue showing positive images of us.
DeleteDuring this semester I’ve learned a lot about films and filmmakers. From the original Birth of a Nation to the newest Birth of a Nation film, I was interested in this class. I was exposed to a part of African American culture that isn’t shown very often. I enjoyed the movies that we saw in this class, but I really enjoyed the 13TH film as well as the Black Panthers Vanguard Film. One suggestion is, to continue showing Birth of a Nation and hopefully when you have a new class in the spring or fall semester that they get to watch the new Birth of a Nation; by that time it should be on DVD. I believe that many of African Americans aren’t exposed to how media portrays them and how important it is to support filmmaker that happen to be black. I’ve learned in this class that if we don’t believe in our image who will. I know a lot of people who didn’t want to see the film but after watching the first birth of a nation, I knew I had to watch the one that gave black people a voice. Overall I enjoyed this class, everything that was taught I didn’t know until I took this class, and I’m thankful. I advise future English 318 students to take this class and be prepared to learn.
ReplyDeleteI feel the same exact way about English 318. I also really liked the Birth of a Nation part of this class. This class is so powerful than any other class I've taken at NCAT.I agree with you on learning so many aspects that aren't so easily exposed without THINKING.
DeleteThis semester I had the privilege to take ENG 318 with Professor Jackson. This class has definitely been one for the books. I have learned so much through this semester, to my advantage to and to my disadvantage. For any future students taking ENG 318, I would just simply tell them to prepare themselves. My only critique for this class is that it focused sometimes too much on racial issues instead of black film and culture. I sometimes felt that this class was just a class filled with lessons on “why blacks are the victims, and why most whites are racists.” I can’t honestly blame anyone though for this because I had my own pre-conceived expectations for this class before the semester began thinking it would be a class discussing only black film. I thought this class was going to be exploring black films/filmmakers from the beginning to present day. While we did do that sometimes, the majority of the class was just taught for us to try to “look” for race in everything. I feel this class would have been completely different it there had been other students of different races/ethnicities in the class.
ReplyDeleteI will say that Professor Jackson is an excellent teacher, very passionate and serious, which I appreciate. While I’m fully aware and supportive of the fact that other people share different thought processes than I do, I would have to ask Professor Jackson to not simply tell students what to think, but how to think. Allow students to form their own judgements, theories, and notions.
Overall, my favorite part about this whole class was the short film assignment. I feel it gave students a voice and allowed us to show our creativity from our own perspectives. As far as the material, I enjoyed discussing Oscar Micheaux the most. I would suggest this class to future students, just only warning them to come ready, prepared every day, and willing to stand up for their beliefs, even if they may be the only one.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1E0NrcnwAE
Allan, I appreciate your comments and hope you recognize I still gave you full credit despite the tardiness of this post. However, I would hope that you didn't think I tried to teach you what to think. Further, I hope all of my students will remain firm in their beliefs, but have the substance to support those views. In the future, I'd like to suggest that you go into any class, group, project, job fully prepared. And, I mean prepared in being overly prepared. If this requires reading, then read the required material as well as supplemental texts. Finally, be mindful and respectful and when a professor or other peers are talking, listen. Best of luck to you!
DeleteDr. J
Before taking this class, I heard so much about this class. The thing that sparked my interest the most is the fact that the class allowed students to create there own short film. I was very excited to take this class.
ReplyDeleteOverall, I enjoyed this class and glad I took it. Once I got into this class I was expecting it to be a easy A but as time went I saw the was going to take work to get that A. I will say that I have learned a lot being in this class and it has also opened my eyes to a lot of things in the black culture. Although I did not agree with everything that was said through it out the class, it allowed me to take in consideration and hear other opinions on different topics. Another thing I would have like is to have seen more about film than focusing on the black culture.
I will say my favorite video that we watch was Queen Sugar. When we discussed the show in class, it really made we want to watch it more. I went home that weekend and watched it till I caught up and now it was one of my favorite shows.
One thing I wish you could have showed the class was this video by Jane Elliot. She teaches her students at a young age about racism and then she goes to teach adults and college students about it in a later video. She did this by doing a experiment.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nqv9k3jbtYU
Advice I would give to future students, one is not to come in this class thinking it will be a easy A. This class will require work to get that A. Also to make sure you read all the readings and participate in class discussion because it will be on the exams that they will have to take.
English 318 is probably by far my favorite class this semester, and probably my favorite I’ve taken at A&T thus far. I actually looked forward to coming to class every MWF even though I was religiously a few minutes late every day. I loved the readings, the films that we watched, and the discussions. I love taking classes like these (classes that expand your mind to really what is going on in America), because it allows for me to discover answers to questions that I have had for years and had no clue where to go to start looking. Adichie’s single story Ted Talk was life changing for me, because it made me realize that although I am quick to anger when people have stereotypes about me, I too sometimes project these single stories onto other cultures that I may not know about outside of America, like Asian or Indian culture. Now that I am aware of projecting single stories, I am now able to see that what I doing is wrong and I can stop it. Another thing that really made an impression on me in this class the new information that I have learned like to look at “white savior” movies more critically, I understand who the Black Panthers were/are, what they stood for, and that they were not bad, ultra-violent people what was told to me. If there was anything that I would have like to discuss more or go more indepth in this class would probably be the representation of the black body exploited in most films. Like to talk about caricatures like Uncle Toms and Mammys portrayed in media today and why we still have them.
ReplyDeletehttp://urbanintellectuals.com/2013/10/19/black-women-media-mammy-olivia-pope-everything/
Olivia,
DeleteThank you for these suggestions. I've included them before in the past, but didn't this semester. I'll consider including these tropes again.
Throughout the semester I genuinely believe that I have continued to learn and grow as a person, each and every day. Honestly, I thought the class would be a simple elective when I signed up. To my surprise, I learned a great deal of history and perspective. I believe that all the films and documentaries we covered were accurate and useful when critically analyzed. The only suggestions I have for this course are you continuing to add current day films such as "Luke Cage" and "Birth Of a Nation". The more current they are, the more class enthusiasm and participation you should expect. My advice for future English 318 students are to come to class prepared, come with an open mind, and make sure to turn your blogs in on time! ;) I sincerely enjoyed this course as well as the amazing professor that came with it.
ReplyDeleteOut of the six courses I’m enrolled in this semester, I’d have to say English 318 has been my favorite. I’ve always been intrigued with film and its impact on society, so to learn specifically about the influence of African-American film throughout history allowed me to enjoy the class even more. The ideology of black film and its culture exposed me to perspectives (feminist, socialist, etc.) and theories (politics, white supremacy, etc.) I’ve once never knew. I didn’t know the importance of black representation or how it effects the black community. Manthia Diawara, cultural theorist, describes how black cinema is a form of research tool. “[Black] filmmakers investigate the possibilities of bringing to the foreground issues central in Black communities: criticizing sexism, homophobia, etc.” Before this course, I had little knowledge about race films or its profound directors. For example, I had no idea about the racial impact “Birth of a Nation” had upon the reputation of African-Americans. The film, released in 1915, was the staple perception that white people had of black people, which some people still believe to this day. Nor did I know about the talented African-American directors who have influenced not only the film industry but also black culture. From Oscar Micheaux to Ava DuVernay, black film will continue to shape the potential and representation of African-Americans. I now have a new respect for the black film industry and a better appreciation for all the boundaries that have been broken in the past and even today.
ReplyDeleteI would advise future ENG 318 students to read ALL of the readings and watch ALL the videos posted on Blackboard. To ask questions and actually engage in class discussions. I would also advise students to get familiar with the black film industry.
Thank you for a great semester!
Going into this class I did not know what to expect. I honestly thought I was signing up to get an easy A but I was wrong. This class has opened my perspective more to black movements, film culture, and literature. I was familiar with the black panthers, Assata Shakur and Bell hooks before this class but I learned more. But the gem I was introduced to in this class was Ava DuVernay. I was shocked that I have never heard about her even with all her projects. I will definitely look out for more of her work because of this class and I will continue to pay attention to different aspects of black film culture. To future students who take this class, you will enjoy it and learn a lot about black culture and even about yourself. This class is not just about black film culture, it makes you realize that a lot of black people and families are similar in many ways and we should always embrace each other.
ReplyDeleteThis African American film and culture course has been absolutely amazing. I've learned many things about African American history. There are lots of things that are not discussed in classrooms or in depth that we were able to cover in this course. You have allowed us to voice our opinions and pushed us to new heights. Never did I imagine at the beginning of the semester that my group and I would be able to put a film together (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gm6OXuiVQto). Before taking this class I had never heard of Bell Hooks, Tim Wise, and many others. The readings broadened my knowledge. My favorite video/film was the 13th by Ava DuVernay. She is extremely talented, and I myself watching more of her productions now. For future English 318.02 students, I advise that you read read, and watch. The tests are very detailed so make sure to pay attention. It's a great course with an even better professor. You will learn a lot about black culture and you will be happy that you did.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gm6OXuiVQto - this is a product of pushing yourself in this course.
When registering for this class the only thing I seen was the word 'film." I thought that we were just going to watch a bunch of movies, and discuss them. Instead, I met Dr. Jackson. From the first day I knew I was going to like her. I have always had a strange connection to teachers who curse, and code switch throughout discussions and she was no different. The first week she gave us videos to watch, and told us to be prepared. Like most people I was not prepared, at all. I sat in the front starring at the board, as she paced back and forth as a few peers of mine began to shout out answers. It wasn't until the first test that I understood just how much she wasn't playing with us. Although I can say she grades extremely hard, I can also say she has opened my eyes to a lot of things and I have learned a lot. I even found a new favorite artist (Meshell N.), and new shows as well. For future classes, I would recommend you all to pay attention, don't wait to the last minute to do anything, and have an open mind. Also, documentary films are so hard, so if you can just do a movie. However, just in case you're hardheaded like me and my group here's an example of one: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gm6OXuiVQto).
ReplyDeleteI have learned a lot this semester from taking this African American Film and Culture. This class has taught me to think more critically while reading and watching films. Before taking this course I would never search for the underlining or hidden meaning behind films and literature that I read; I would just accept it as just is. While taking this class I have learned to challenge the material that I watch and read, and to ask questions about it's purpose. I have learned to not just look at things from the surface, but from the inside and depth of it. The conversations in this class were awesome because we were able to hear one another's opinions about the different subject topics, even being open to our classmates who had opposing opinions to the topics discussed. One suggestion that I would have for the class is to view more films on the subject topics for the individuals who are more visual learners. I would also suggest to keep the challenging readings that help stimulate the students brain and cause us as students to think out of the box and challenge our opinions on the material that is discussed. My advise for future students would be to plan and prepare for the final film early and think in advanced on who you would like to work with, as well as the subject or topic you would like the film to be on. Overall the class was wonderful and at times challenging, but I appreciate the challenges because it helped me grow and and enhance myself as a student.
ReplyDeleteOne films that i wish we could have watched in class in relations to the black family would be Spike Lee's film "Crooklyn". This is a trailer for the film.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=so702Mh_HGw
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Dr.Jacksons class, I thought the class was very planned out and very organized. I loved Dr.Jacksons style of teaching, she is very passionate about African American Film & Culture. She really gave me insight just from a personal perspective on how I can grow as a up and coming young professional, and I appreciate her for that. One of the things I loved about her class is that she made you think outside of your normal realm, for example I could come in class having a thought about a certain concept and then she pose a question from a different or unique perspective that made me think about something or look at something from a entirely different angle.
ReplyDeleteI think something new that Dr.Jackson can do is have a peer review of the final projects instead of Dr.Jackson getting the final grade, make it like a competition where you can see who gets the best review by their peers. I think that would something new and creative, it would also be outside of the box.
The advice I would have for future ENG 318 students is too make sure you really complete all the readings and truly value each day you have in the class. I would also advise them to come to class and be engaged in the conversation because your thinking will definitely change and you will definitely see yourself grow in ways you can never imagine.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_I5vV4WKc-o
I think the making of do the right thing is a good movie to watch to get a scope of what you will talking about in this class.
This course was absolutely phenomenal and it opened up my mind to a lot of subjective topics that I typically wouldn’t care to think about. Throughout this course I realize the ingenuous of our African American ancestors in the world or arts and film making. Also the film project got me excited about creating my own image of the collective knowledge gained from the course. Among all the topics discussed the black panther party movement interested me the most as we analyzed the truth behind this country, also the disruption of the party that promoted the rise of the black man/woman. I admired the fight for liberation and I see the same struggles faced today which gives me a lot of influence to want to become greater and create paths for greater. I would say to be successful throughout the course to be to attentive and prepared to dissect passages and sociology of the new world. I would rate this class a 4/4 and I would recommend anyone with a thirst for knowledge to take a chance and study paths of greatest to maybe blueprint a path of greatness for oneself
ReplyDeleteI can honestly say I have enjoyed this class! When I signed up for African American Film and Culture, it was only to receive 3 credits so I could be considered a "full - time" student. I never would've thought this class would've impacted me the way that it did.
ReplyDeleteIn moments I caught myself thinking more critically when I watched a film or when I read different articles, or things on social media. Even in class it was hard for me to participate in discussions at times because I couldn't believe how oblivious I was to certain topics and events. This class was definitely an eye opening.
For next semester I think a film that should be shown is Mississippi Damned . I think it shows another perspective of the black family, different from the film Pariah.
Overall, writing and directing my own film had to be my favorite part. At times it was very stressful, but stepping out of my comfort zone was absolutely the best part. Anyone taking this class next semester should definitely start the short film assignment when it is assigned! Stay aware and always read!
Thank you for a wonderful semester!
Jessie,
DeleteSomeone from my 11am class also suggested the same film, so I'll definitely see if I can add it to my film line-up!
I did not understand why we had to watch Birth of a Nation at the beggining of the semester; it is the most boring film I have seen. I went to sleep everytime I tried to watch it, but there were some scenes that could not get out of my head. For one, I could not understand why they would have white people playing black roles. Whenever a person was portraying a black person, it was something offensive; either we were theives, rapist, or...jokes. As the semester went on, I noticed why you did it. The stereotypes of black people in films for Hollywood are crucial and it seems like (in the past) the only way for a movie to get big is if it has those roles. If the main character is a black woman either she is an angry single mother or a stuck up business woman, but we are so much more than that. I walked into the class being a Spike Lee fan and not really having much respect for Tyler Perry, but now I get it. You see, Spike came out knowing that he had a talent; he put stereotypes in his movies, but he would put a twist to it. He had Radio Raheim; the big man with the radio, but it gave us a different light of that type of male. In Crooklyn he showed a black family struggling in the Projects, but they were together. If ever a black script writer seems to sell out for the black community, they must not have talent. If you have talent then you can be able to trick Hollywood; start off with what they think they want and then kill the game! Your class was the class where I sat back and analyzed the way people think, but the moment they said something crazy, I had to speak up. The day one of the males said that "a man can tell a womans story" was the day I looked at the world differently. I already knew men thought they knew everything, but I did not know they would take it that extreme. Your class is the class where we can take a short film and speak on not only the film, but life all in once. The election help me see that American is the same America is was when the bastards said "the land of the free", but your class help me notice that a while ago. These stereotypes on black people are shackles that are so hard to get off; I do want to see black people playing roles similar to my life, but there is no need to have that loud black girl. I want to see relateable black woman, like Mary Jane, handeling her business, but still seeming like a true black woman. I always wanted to write, but your class helped me notice that I was in the wrong major, so I left JOMC and went to English. The best advice I can give to a person coming into your class is to PLEASE pay as much attention to Birth of a Nation as they can because it will help you understand that everything else you watch is a reflection of birth of a nation.
ReplyDeleteNaiya,
DeleteI'm rendered speechless. All I can do is say thank you. Your words resonate exactly what my intent with the short film inclusion is. And, thank you for recognizing that the reality of disenfranchised individuals remains constant. And, like Ava DuVernay says, "artists will never apologize for speaking truth into power." English majors are artists. ; )
When I signed up for this course, I had no idea what to expect. I thought we would just watch movies and write reports on them. Now that this semester is over I am glad that I took it. It really opened my eyes to a lot of things that I didn't know. Documentaries like the 13th and the Black Panther Party really taught me things that I didn't know existed. I started to understand why we watched the videos that we did in class. Everything came together at the end of the semester and I understand the readings about black stereotypes, gender roles, single stories, etc. We learned a lot about racial issues and black stereotypes. I was really interested in some of the readings that we had to do before class. One that I will always remember the is the journal entry we read on Tyler Perry. I grew up watch his plays and movies and as I got older I started to notice how all his movies had similar plots and outcomes, so to read about him and have someone break it down like they did in the article, I really liked that. The discussions that we had in class were pretty good when everybody read or watched what we were supposed to. Although the readings were interesting, they extremely long and after a while I would get tired of reading, so that would be something that I would change for the future. I also loved the fact that Professor Jackson is as passionate and serious about this class and subject and that made it so much better in my opinion.
ReplyDeleteI am glad I had the opportunity to take English 318- African American Film & Culture . This class really forced to think more critically about our film and culture than ever before. The concepts we discussed in this class was so new to me. I was continuously learning throughout this course daily. I loved hearing so many perspectives and outlooks of how people were raised. In this class I had to critically think about everything. I was exposed to topics I knew very little about before taking this course. I now leave this class knowing way more about my culture than ever before. I loved how Professor Jackson taught with so much passion and had high expectations for her students.
ReplyDeleteSome ideas I have for new semester is learning about Zora Neale Hurston and watching “Their Eyes Were Watching God”.
I would recommend you thoroughly reading and watching all assigned videos. Every assignment has its importance in some way later on. Make sure you participate and challenge yourself critically. Take in everything Professor Jackson says and come prepared .
Overall, I am so glad I decided to take this course. This class should be necessary for every student attending a HBCU regardless of their major. Students need to know this knowledge before going into corporate America. It is important to have that sense of pride and knowledge that this class taught me. I am now more aware of my surroundings than EVER before .
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_M-PfhgMsg
The class material is already really good. I have suggestions, even though the material is already jam packed and there's such much. Definitely going forward there could be material relating to that awful girl Tomi Lahren. I've heard people say in the past that racism and ignorance will die off when older white people die, but obviously it won't. Also, current events relating to Trump's win will be important to talk about in class.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure what a student in this class could do to do better. I took tons of notes, spoke in class ALL the time, did homework, but my grade is still not to my liking. Some test questions were pretty complicated, and I wish I had gotten better grades on the first two test.
English 318 will forever be special to me. Dr. Jackson's class was my first English course as an English major that assured me that changing my major from Biz. Mgmt. to English was the best academic decision I've made to date. My appreciation for this course stems from my love of studying popular culture and the media as well as my overall adoration for all things culturally black. My favorite parts of the semester was pretty much any time we discussed bell hooks in any capacity and the Black Panthers segment. And although I completed the short film project kicking and screaming the entire time, it was really fun to have full creative control over a major assignment like that in a course.
ReplyDeleteMy advice for future Eng 318 students is to stay on top of your readings. The assigned readings are not just for discussions, but also for contextualizing, forming your own opinions to present in class, and to possibly use as a future citation. Take copious notes of everything you think may be important! Because Dr. Jackson values the voice of her students and encourages them to dig deeper into the films we watch and readings she assigns, she's not going to do much lecturing, but you will probably learn more in this class than in any other if you read/watch everything she posts on Bb. She's an incredible educator. (And that's no gas at all. She's dope.)
The only thing I can think of to incorporate for next semester is the rise of the "alt-right" aka white supremacists/neo-nazis, the good-black-man-down-on-his-luck-but-black-woman-can't-hold-him-down-in-spite-of trope from season 1 of "insecure" reminiscent of a Tyler Perry film (I'll attach a link below), and the media's role in the election of DT.
http://madamenoire.com/727394/insecure-finale-building-man/
I really enjoyed this class! I’ve taken a film class before and we would just watch films every class. There was no discussion, no dialogue, not even the history of films. I learned a lot in this class. Dr. Jackson made me think deeper into films. I loved the fact that I got create my own short film because being a film maker is what I truly want to be. Creating the film opened up my mind to so many other projects I want to do in the near future.
ReplyDeleteTo the future students of English 318, I would say make sure you read the assigned readings, take part in the discussions during class (something I didn’t do because I’m very shy lol) and do your research on some of the things Dr. Jackson talks about in class. You will learn some interesting things. This is the best class I've taken at A&T. Thanks Dr. Jackson!
My advice for future students would be to come into this class with an open mind. Many of times we as people speak to others without the intentions of really listening. The great thing about this class is that it provides one with the ability to hear other points of view that may challenge their own. If I truly took anything away from this class it was to be slow to speak and swift to hear.Also, one of the topics I think you should hit one in a future class is the current state of black America. Many people believe America's economy as a whole is doing better and that were out of a recession. However, this ins't true for black America. The unemployment rate has actually gone up for African Americans and this is a serious issue that must be addressed. All in all I would like to thank you for all the issues you have exposed us too as a class. Though everyone may not agree on every issue, which was evident during many discussions in class. Its like you said, education is the key for real change, and these discussions helped educate me as i'm sure it did many of my other class mates as well.
ReplyDeleteProfessor Jackson created an atmosphere on day 1 for everyone to feel influenced and to speak openly in her English 318. This class was truly an experience not only because we were able to watch films and some of our favorite shows but because you had the opportunity to see how society have brain washed many of the African-American community which made you begin to think differently. In this class, we went behind the surface of different articles and films to see what someone was really saying instead of what we thought they were trying to say.
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I wish I would have been more of a speaker and voiced my opinion in the class often. For some reason though, I can respect the fact that I didn't say a lot because I learned so much more by hearing my classmates perspectives on things even if I didn't agree as to what they were saying so much.
One of my favorite moments in this class was the group projects we created. Even though they instantly became a headache when group members could not make it to the meetings or things that we planned didn't go expect, overall it turn out to be a beautiful experience. I loved the fact that we as classmates had the opportunity to get creative and discuss real life issues and challenge ourselves as well as people in our communities. After viewing everyone's project, I just seen so much of the mainstream issues that we seeing with officers killing unarmed blacked men and so much more actually have a root problem that is right and our community. I loved the fact that after Donald Trump won the election, Professor Jackson sat us down and got real with us and made us think about what's next. Instead of siting there being mad about the outcome of the election, she made us reflection on how we are going to move forward and how we can make an impact.
In closing, my favorite and most influential piece that Professor Jackson gave us was "The danger of a single story | Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie" piece. This beautiful piece made me think outside of all the Single Story's I had within my own mind and see people truly for who they are. An amazing piece that should be shared in future classes. This course was a fun experience, although I was not at my best. You are guaranteed to learn something.
https://youtu.be/D9Ihs241zeg
Thanks,
Khandler J. Kimber