I would like to propose a session, much like Kel’s and Ned’s that interrogates the process of creating discursive social worlds through social media (as well as the possibility of transforming old media into social media. What qualifies as social media by the way?). I’m interested in, both practically and theoretically, interrogating the ways social media can be used in cultural institutions in such a way that transforms the computer from a looking glass into a window; the ways it can facilitate the creation of a discursive space between privileged communities and those who are under-represented/underserved, as well as communities that are separated geographically.

In my own recent anthropological research, I’ve been investigating media ecologies and the way media shapes the way we experience our world. I’m particularly interested in the intersection of sounds and screens, and so what I intend to put on the table are interesting ways in which sounds and screens can be integrated into exhibits to foster communication and interaction, as opposed to allowing technology to re-enforce the “cult of the individual” (to steal a term from Durkheim). I am intrigued by PodCast tours, the new iPod tour applications, and twittr.

Like I said, I would really like this session to interrogate technology, not just glorify it, through both theoretical and practical lenses.

See you all soon!