Webliography 2-Final 40 Sites

Websites Regarding Academic Achievement 1-20

1. LaSalle University (2004).  Exam Study Skills.  Retrieved from                 http://lasalle.limestone.on.ca/library/studyskills1.htm

This website gives viewers and readers tips and skills in order to get a good grade on an exam.  They take you step by step before, during, and after the exam.

2. Trustees of Dartmouth College (2008).  Academic Skills Center.  Retrieved from                 http://www.dartmouth.edu/~acskills/success/time.html

This website demonstrates to readers the advantages of time management, the importance of managing your time, and keys to managing your time.

3. Prentice Hall (2002).  Time Management.  Retrieved from                 http://www.prenhall.com/success/StudySkl/timemanage.html

This website shows readers the dangers of too much fun and partying on campus and the importance to balance out your time and to implement excellent time management skills.

4. Elmhurst College (2004).  The Thirteen Points.  Retrieved from                 http://www.elmhurst.edu/library/learningcenter/Note%20Taking%20Strategies/thirtee                n_points.htm

This site focuses on the importance of note taking and contains a survey which tests how well your notes are and if you are preparing for your tests sufficiently.

5. College of Saint John’s University (2011).  Lecture Note Taking.                  http://www.csbsju.edu/academic-advising/study-skills-guide/lecture-note-taking.htm

This website reviews the importance of taking notes, tips for taking notes, and goes through step-by step how to take good notes.

6. The College Board (2011).  The Power of Study Groups.  Retrieved from                 http://www.collegeboard.com/student/plan/high-school/50432.html

This website makes it clear that study groups do help and it explains the benefits and strengths of studying and worBryking together as a team.

7. Carolyn Hopper (2003).  Ten Tips You Need to Survive College.  Retrieved from                 http://frank.mtsu.edu/~studskl/10tips.html

This website gives readers ten tips to survive college.  It is helpful because it focuses on the academic and social success of a college student.

8. Carolyn Hopper (2003).  Memory Principles.  Retrieved from       http://frank.mtsu.edu/~studskl/mem.html

This website gives readers tips on memory fundamentals and teaches readers steps throughout the memory process. It gives them tips in remembering important information.

9. Bryant J. Williams (2009).  Studying With the Doughnut On.  Retrieved from                 http://www.heardworld.com/higgaion/?p=1296

This website is from the point of view of a religious teacher.  He converses to readers the importance of studying and many other important aspects of studying.

10. Meg Keeley (1997).  Test Taking Strategies.  Retrieved from        http://www.bucks.edu/~specpop/tests.htm

This website gives readers tips to studying before, during, and after the exam.  It is extremely helpful because it gives descriptive details to each step.

11. Cod.edu (2010).  Tips for Effective Study.  Retrieved from                 http://www.cod.edu/people/faculty/fancher/study.htm

This website is an organized list of study tips for exams.  It makes it clear to students how to study for a significant exam.

12. Steve Pavlina (2006).  10 Tips for College Students.  Retrieved from                 http://www.stevepavlina.com/blog/2006/05/10-tips-for-college-students/

This website is a personal development site that illustrates ten tips on how to be a successful college student.  His tips range from social to academic issues that college students deal with.

13. CollegeTips (2011).  College Survival Guide.  Retrieved from http://www.collegetips.com/

This website deals with advice for students on how to survive the struggles of college.  It talks about a wide range of issues such as money and dormitories.

14. Randall Hanson (2010).  25 Tips on how to Survive and Thrive your Freshman Year.  Retrieved     from http://www.quintcareers.com/first-year_success.html

This site focuses solely on freshman year and highlights the struggles only freshman students deal with adjusting to the college environment.

15. About.com (2011).  8 College Student Time Management Skills.  Retrieved from                 http://collegelife.about.com/od/academiclife/a/timemanagement.htm

This site deals with the issue of time management by college students.  It goes through the 8 steps in making time management work in college.

16. Monster (2010).  Resume Tips for College Students.  Retrieved from http://career-                advice.monster.com/resumes-cover-letters/resume-writing-tips/resume-tips-for-        college-students/article.aspx

This website focuses on the important task of making a resume for future jobs of college students.  It gives students five tips on how write a resume.

17. TheSmarterWallet (2008).  Credit Management Tips for College Students.  Retrieved from  http://thesmarterwallet.com/2009/how-to-manage-debt-credit-management-tips-      college-students/

This site teaches students how to manage their money in college.  This is a big issue that affects a lot of college students around the world.

18. Washington State University (2011).  Sleep Tips for College Students.  Retrieved from                 http://counsel.wsu.edu/SleepTips

Although this is not a website that helps students grow professionally, it teaches a very important aspect of college which is sleep which relates to time management.

19. Laura Kienlen (2008).  Tips for Shy College Students.  Retrieved from                 http://theadventurouswriter.com/blog/tips-for-shy-college-students-with-introverted-   personality-traits/

This is a website that helps students with their social conflicts that they may encounter during their college years.

20. Demand Media (2011).  Organization Tips for College Students.  Retrieved from                 http://www.ehow.com/way_5242226_organization-tips-college-students.html

This website teaches organizational skills to students.  It is very important that a college student is organized.

Websites Regarding Religion 21-40

21. BBC Religion (2011).  Christianity.  Retrieved from             http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/christianity/

This website gives readers basic information of Christianity including beliefs, ethics, and the history of Christianity.  It gives readers a great understanding of Christianity.

22. Tracy Rich (2008).  Welcome to Judaism 101!.  Retrieved from     http://www.jewfaq.org/index.htm

This website demonstrates the readers basic information of Judaism.  It goes over very interesting aspects of Judaism such as the Hebrew Alphabet and the Jewish Calender.

23. Gyshe Gtaso (2007).  About Buddhism.  Retrieved from http://www.aboutbuddhism.org/

This website goes over the basics of Buddhism including the beliefs, history, and Buddhism today.  It is a great overview of a lot of information.

24. Mandy Barrow (2006).  Hinduism.  Retrieved from http://www.woodlands-                junior.kent.sch.uk/Homework/religion/hinduism.htm

This is a hands-on, easy to follow website that gives readers a basic overview of the religion of Hinduism.  It is easy to read and is very helpful.

25. B.A. Robinson (2010).  Islam.  The Second Largest Religion.  Retrieved from                 http://www.religioustolerance.org/islam.htm

This website is an in-depth information site on the Islamic religion.  It helps readers understand the basis and some specific information about Islams.

26.  ReligionFacts(2011).  Roman Catholicism.  Retrieved from                 http://www.religionfacts.com/christianity/denominations/catholicism.htm

This website goes over the practices, beliefs, and history of Roman Catholics.  It explains that Catholic is a denomination and other major aspects of Roman Catholics.

27. GatewayforIndia (2005).  Jainism.  Retrieved from                 http://www.gatewayforindia.com/other_religions/jainism.htm

This website is an overview of the basics of Jainism, one of the world’s oldest world religions.  It also gives links to other helpful websites regarding Jainism.

28. Sikhnet (2009).  Introduction to Sikhism.  Retrieved from http://fateh.sikhnet.com/s/SikhIntro

This website is an introduction to the beliefs of followers of the Sikhism religion.  It mentions the ten sikh gurus and the making of the khalsa.

29. Philip Pscornio (2001). Philosophy of Religion.  Retrieved from                 http://www2.sunysuffolk.edu/pecorip/scccweb/etexts/phil_of_religion_text/chapter_2                _religions/taoism.htm

This website is an overview of China’s famous religion, Taoism.  It goes over the history and mainly introduces many of the beliefs of Taoism.

30. ReligionFacts (2011).  Orthodox Judaism.  Retrieved from                 http://www.religionfacts.com/judaism/denominations/orthodox.htm

This website is a subgroup of Judaism and it illustrates many of the beliefs and differences of Orthodox Jews.  It is a very helpful site.

31. David Dickerson (2005).  Jewish Culture and History.  Retrieved from       http://ddickerson.igc.org/judaica.html

This website reviews the history and culture of the Jewish faith.  It gives you different links to sites that can help you learn more about Judaism.

32. Catholic (2011).  The Catholic Church for England and Wales.  Retrieved from       http://www.catholic-ew.org.uk/

This website is the official website for the Catholic church in England and Wales.  It gives you basic information on the religion including Easter and Lent.

33. OCA (2011).  The Orthodox Church in America.  Retrieved from http://www.oca.org/

This website is the official website of the Orthodox church.  It gives basic information as well as recent news from the Orthodox church.

34. Baptist (2011).  The Home for All Baptists.  Retrieved from http://www.baptist.org/

This site is the homepage for all Baptists.  It has a lot of information on the religion and has many different categories you can browse through.

35. Sandeep Singh Brar (2003).  The Sikhism Home Page.  Retrieved from     http://www.sikhs.org/topics.htm

This website gives basic information on the religion of Sikhism.  It is a very interactive site that displays graphics and images.

36. Bahaii International Community (2011).  The Bahaii Faith.  Retrieved from             http://www.bahai.org/

This site portrays the Bahaii faith and has many different subcategories in which you can browse through.

37. General Conference of Seventh Day Adventists (2011).  Seventh Day Adventist Church.  Retrieved from http://www.adventist.org/

This site allows viewers to be exposed to various information on this religion.  It gives us additional information that was not given to us during the presentation.

38. United Church of Christ (2011).  The United Church of Christ.  Retrieved from     http://www.ucc.org/

This website gives you basic information on the United Church of Christ.

39. University at Buffalo (2003).  Islamic Thought.  Retrieved from    http://www.theology.ie/linksch.htm

This website gives you information on how the Islam religion followers think and what they believe in.

40. Himilayan Academy (2011).  Hinduism Today Magazine.  Retrieved from                http://www.hinduismtoday.com/

This website gives news on Hinduism and other information that is relevant to the Hindu religion.

Rubric score

Will you be able to attend?  _____yes____ YES ____________ NO

Name _________________Matthew Brion________

URL of this rubric score sheet – ____

_https://brionm.wordpress.com/wp-admin/post-new.php_____________________

URL of the homepage of your ePortfolio _________brionm.wordpress.com________________

Your email address ________________brionm@my.easternct.edu_____________________________

____ I live on campus in _____Constitution Hall_____ (which hall?)

____ I am a commuter

Please refer to the AAC&U ‘s Integrative Learning VALUE Rubric* for details on the rubric.  The evaluator will review the links that you list here as evidence of fulfilling the elements of the rubric and rate each element using this score –

4 = capstone, 3 = high milestone, 2 = milestone, 1 = benchmark, 0 = not evident.

One may list 1 or more URLs for websites that would display the rubric’s elements.   The maximum score might be 20 points for the entire rubric scoring.   Consider this rubric form as a table of contents or ways of demonstrating competency in your ePortfolio.

1) Connections to Experience – (Experience) – Connects relevant experience and academic knowledge (capstone – “Meaningfully synthesizes connections among experiences outside of the formal classroom (including life experiences and academic experiences such as internships and travel abroad) to deepen understanding of fields of study and to broaden own points of view.”)

SP 3.2 Objective: students develop a sense of empowerment, ownership of the learning process and deepen understanding regarding the opportunities for meaningful learning outside the traditional classroom setting.

There is room to include the objectives of other strategic initiatives here.

For example, one may list webpages that document community service and service learning as related to coursework, participation in university clubs and other associations, and professional activities, ….

Description of Evidence

Format: List name (date created).  Title of webpage.  Retrieved from http://

and provide a short essay on how this document fulfills the goals of this section of the Integrative Learning Value Rubric.

For example,

Stoloff, D.L. (February 25, 2011). ePortfolio rubric.  Retrieved fromhttp://stolofd.wordpress.com/eportfolio-rubric/.

This is a prototype of a table of contents for documenting one’s fulfillments of the objectives of the AAC&U’s Integrative Learning VALUE Rubric.

1. Brion, Matthew.  (April 13, 2011).  Reflective Essay.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2011/04/11/reflective-essay/

Reflective Essay on professional and academic growth.

2. Brion, Matthew (April 13, 2011).  Book Review.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2011/03/28/book-review-five-people-you-meet-in-heaven/

Book Review of a great book, Five People You Meet In Heaven.

3. Brion, Matthew (April 13, 2011). Midterm Essay.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2011/03/07/midterm-essay/

Midterm essay regarding my growth during the class.

4. Brion, Matthew (April 13, 2011).  RIDL #2.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2011/03/07/ridl1-2/

Analysis of Eastern Connecticut Basketball game.

…. One may list more than four documents.

2) Connections to Discipline (Academic Portfolio) – Sees (makes) connections across disciplines, perspectives.  “Independently creates wholes out of multiple parts (synthesizes) or draws conclusions by combining examples, facts, or theories from more than one field of study or perspective.”

SP 3.2 Objective: Students will document the full range of his or her learning experiences(including experiential learning)

For example, essays developed in liberal arts courses that combines understanding from multiple discipline, research projects that relied on knowledge from several courses, mixed media projects, …

Description of Evidence

Format: List name (date created).  Title of webpage.  Retrieved from http://

and provide a short essay on how this document fulfills the goals of this section of the Integrative Learning Value Rubric.

For example,

Stoloff, D.L. (February 25, 2011). ePortfolio rubric.  Retrieved fromhttp://stolofd.wordpress.com/eportfolio-rubric/.

This is a prototype of a table of contents for documenting one’s fulfillments of the objectives of the AAC&U’s Integrative Learning VALUE Rubric.

1. Brion, Matthew (April 13, 2011).  RIDL #1.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2011/03/07/ridl1-1/

Analysis of the Catholic mass regarding religion.

2. Brion, Matthew (April 13, 2011).  Webliography. Retrieved from  https://brionm.wordpress.com/2011/02/28/webliography/

List of websites about religion and study habits.

3. Brion, Matthew (April 13, 2011).  Sunflower 2.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2011/02/21/a4-sunflower-2/

Analysis of the second part of the book, Sunflower.

…. One may list more than four documents.

3) Transfer (Applications) –  “Adapts and applies, independently, skills, abilities, theories, or methodologies gained in one situation to new situations to solve difficult problems or explore complex issues in original ways.”

SP 3.2 Objective: Job and graduate school placement will be assisted by electronic portfolios.

For example, independent study projects, student-lead initiatives, showcasing skills for employment, …

Description of Evidence

Format: List name (date created).  Title of webpage.  Retrieved from http://

and provide a short essay on how this document fulfills the goals of this section of the Integrative Learning Value Rubric.

For example,

Stoloff, D.L. (February 25, 2011). ePortfolio rubric.  Retrieved fromhttp://stolofd.wordpress.com/eportfolio-rubric/.

This is a prototype of a table of contents for documenting one’s fulfillments of the objectives of the AAC&U’s Integrative Learning VALUE Rubric.

1. Brion, Matthew (April 13, 2011).  Sunflower 1.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2011/02/14/a1-sunflower/

Analysis of the first part of the book, Sunflower.

2. Brion, Matthew (April 13, 2011). Belief-o-Matic.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2011/02/10/belief-o-matic/

Description of my religious beliefs.

3. Brion, Matthew (April 13, 2011). Group WRIT- Sikism.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2011/04/13/group-writ-sikhism/l

Information on the religion Sikhism.

…. One may list more than four documents.

4) Integrated Communication (Design) – uses a format, language, or graph (or other visual representation) in ways that enhance meaning.  “Fulfills the assignment(s) by choosing a format, language, or graph (or other visual representation) in ways that enhance meaning, making clear the interdependence of language and meaning, thought, and expression.”

SP 3.2 Objective: students learn to organize learning artifacts in ways that reinforce skills and knowledge and assist them in integrating and synthesizing learning from various contexts.

For example, uses of language, visual design – clarity of layout and presentation, video, and graphic tools … to convey meaning.

Description of Evidence

Format: List name (date created).  Title of webpage.  Retrieved from http://

and provide a short essay on how this document fulfills the goals of this section of the Integrative Learning Value Rubric.

For example,

Stoloff, D.L. (February 25, 2011). ePortfolio rubric.  Retrieved fromhttp://stolofd.wordpress.com/eportfolio-rubric/.

This is a prototype of a table of contents for documenting one’s fulfillments of the objectives of the AAC&U’s Integrative Learning VALUE Rubric.

1. Brion, Matthew (April 13, 2011).  Lesson Plan.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2010/11/30/lesson-plan/

Lesson plan for the Education class, Contemporary Issues.

2. Brion, Matthew (April 13, 2011).  Observe10.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2010/11/10/observe10/

Description of my community service experiences at the Teen Center Mentoring center.

5) Reflection and Self-Assessment (Reflections) – Demonstrates a developing sense of self as a learner, building on prior experiences to respond to new and challenging contexts (may be evident in self-assessment, reflective, or creative work).  “Envisions a future self (and possibly makes plans that build on past experiences that have occurred across multiple and diverse contexts).”

SP 3.2 Objective: Habits of self-assessment and lifelong learning will be improved with a process through which students record and reflect on their academic and professional accomplishments

SP 3.2 objective: Students will demonstrate the skills of a reflective learner by identifying personal strengths and challenges, assessment of learning and setting goals for the future

For example, mission statement, clear statement of planning and goals, changes in perspectives throughout one’s studies,  …

Description of Evidence

Format: List name (date created).  Title of webpage.  Retrieved from http://

and provide a short essay on how this document fulfills the goals of this section of the Integrative Learning Value Rubric.

For example,

Stoloff, D.L. (February 25, 2011). ePortfolio rubric.  Retrieved fromhttp://stolofd.wordpress.com/eportfolio-rubric/.

This is a prototype of a table of contents for documenting one’s fulfillments of the objectives of the AAC&U’s Integrative Learning VALUE Rubric.

1. Brion, Matthew (2011).  ePortfolio rubric.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/eportfolio-rubric/.

Eportfolio rubric.

2. Brion, Matthew (2011).  Synthesis essay.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2010/10/

Description of experiences at Eastern thus far.

3. Brion, Matthew (2011).  Expanding Horizon.  Retrieved from https://brionm.wordpress.com/2010/12/07/expanding-horizon-3/

Description of Economics conference I attended.

Group WRIT-Sikhism

Matt Brion   Beliefs before class: Catholic        Beliefs after class: Catholic

WRIT on Sikhism

1. Name of religion- how did it get the name? When did the religion start? Who started the religion?	Sikhism, the word “Sikh” in Punjabi means disciple. The religion started in the fifteenth century.  The religion was started by Guru Nanak.
2. What is the geographic range of religion? What languages are used in the religion?	25.8 million worldwide. 75% in the Indian state of Punjab.  Sikhs in USA, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia.
3. Any holy books? Describe the literature?	Guru Granth Sahib and is written in Punjabi. Final and eternal guru of Sikhs.
4. Are there any divisions, different denominations, among the faithful?	No different sects.
5. Do faithful form communities? How & when do they meet?	Gurdwara’s are where religious communities meet to worship.  They meet
6. Describe a religious service	A public service takes place at a Gurdwara.  The worship is led by any Sikh who is competent to do so.  They are allowed to be male of female.  A service has Kirtan ( a hymn), a sermon, Ardas(a prayer), Hukam (prayer) and ceremonial food.
7. What is the role of music, dance, art in the religion?	There are no idols in the religion.  Music is played at festivals.
8. Describe the religious calendar. What are the religion’s sacred times?	Diwali- celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind from prison.  Hola Mahalla- Sikhs practice martial arts.  Gurpurbs are festivals that have to do with the lives of Gurus.  Vaisakhi is the Sikh new year.
9. Do the faithful have dietary restrictions? Other life-style restrictions? Do the faithful have dress restrictions or distinctive clothing for certain life cycle events?	When entering a Gurdwara one’s bare head must be covered.  Keep every hair head, face and entire body intact and completely unaltered.  No piercings, turban, woman may opt to tie turban.
10. Are there any special rituals at home? Grace at meals? Prayers?	There are prayers that Sikhs are supposed to do every day.  They are supposed to get up three hours before dawn, take a bath and meditate on God.  Sikhs can pray at any time.
11. How is the religion organized? Describe its leadership.	The religion had 10 gurus until the Guru Granth Sahib became the eternal guru.  Sikhs worship publically led by any Sikh who is competent to do so.
12. Describe the nature of the good & evil in the religion. Describe the nature of the sacred/divine in the religion.	There are 10 sacred gurus. The last was Guru Gobind Singh who died in 1708. Taught the path to salvation.  Compiled the Guru Granth Sahib.
13. Describe the nature of the good life & ethical behavior in the religion.	Sikhs should remember God at all times and practice living a virtuous truthful life.
14. What is the nature of forgiveness in the religion? Forgiveness of self? Seeking and granting forgiveness from other individuals? Other peoples? Are there any rituals for forgiveness?	You forgive when you are angry.  It serves as a remedy for anger and creates compassion.  Gurus say that where there is forgiveness, God is there.
15. What is the range of political thought among believers?	Their political thoughts go along with what the Gurus say in their teachings.
16. What is the role of social activism in the religion?	Offerings are voluntary at Gurdwaras, community service is also done.
17. How does the religion provide outreach within the community? To others?	Gurdwaras include schools to teach children the scriptures and to do charitable work in the community.
18. What are the religious attitudes towards education and peace?	People are educated at Gurdwaras.  There are schools for children.
19. Describe the nature of afterlife in the religion?	Don’t believe in a final destination of heaven or hell.  Believe in a spiritual union with God.
20. How does the religion envision the end of time, the last days of humankind?	They believe that God will choose when the world will end.

 

Reflective Essay

College at Eastern Connecticut State University has had many benefits on my social, academic, and psychological well-being.  College gets students more experience meeting new and like-minded people which help their social skills.  It also increases your ability to grasp abstract concepts and have a better understanding of the people and world around you.  College also decreases prejudice, enhances knowledge of world affairs, and enhances social status.  Attending Eastern Connecticut has also really helped my time management skills and I have been able to implement a time management system to help my organization skills.  Life on campus has many distractions that can avert students away from doing their schoolwork.  College has taught me how to ignore these distractions and focus on excelling in my schoolwork.  Attending college classes has also adapted me to college life and what it takes to be a successful student.  I have learned to read and study in meaningful chunks so I will be able to retrieve the information.  I have also learned to not just memorize the information but to understand the information.  I have also become used to using flash cards as a study technique that has helped me understand the information much better.

From all of the advantages of college, it has made me understand fully what it takes to be a college student.  Overall, I have learned the basics of how to succeed in college and how to be a good student and work well with your professors.  It has really allowed me to grow up as a person and has exposed me many real-world situations.

1.            LaSalle University (2004).  Exam Study Skills.  Retrieved from                 http://lasalle.limestone.on.ca/library/studyskills1.htm

2.            Trustees of Dartmouth College (2008).  Academic Skills Center.  Retrieved from                 http://www.dartmouth.edu/~acskills/success/time.html

3.            Prentice Hall (2002).  Time Management.  Retrieved from                 http://www.prenhall.com/success/StudySkl/timemanage.html

4.            Elmhurst College (2004).  The Thirteen Points.  Retrieved from                 http://www.elmhurst.edu/library/learningcenter/Note%20Taking%20Strategies/thirtee             n_points.htm

5.            College of Saint John’s University (2011).  Lecture Note Taking.  Retrieved from http://www.csbsju.edu/academic-advising/study-skills-guide/lecture-note-taking.htm

6.            The Christian Science Monitor (2011).  Top 10 Benefits of College Education.  Retrieved from                 http://www.csmonitor.com/Business/2010/1028/Top-10-benefits-of-a-college-degree/Better- prepared-kids

7.            Meg Keeley (1997).  Test Taking Strategies.  Retrieved from        http://www.bucks.edu/~specpop/tests.htm

8.            Importance of College Education (2008).  The Real College Education Advantages.  Retrieved from  http://www.importanceofcollege.com/advantages.html

9.            Resume-ideas (2011).  College Education Advantages.  Retrieved from  http://www.resume-ideas.com/college_education_advantages.html

10.          University of Maryland (2007).  Benefits of a College Education.  Retrieved from                 http://militaryfinance.umuc.edu/education/

 

Book Review-Five People You Meet in Heaven

I chose the book, “Five People you Meet in Heaven,” by Mitch Albom for my personal book choice.  I found this book to be very interesting and recommend it to anyone looking for a good read.  It can relate to many people because many individuals have a big fear of death.  Eddie, the main character, was an 83 year old man who worked at an amusement park.  He died trying to save a little girl from getting crushed by a rollercoaster cart.   He did not seem to be phased by death itself because of his experience, familiarity with the world, and courage.  After his death, he was brought to many places which represented his death and life.  The first person he met in heaven told him that he would meet five people that directly related to his life.  The first person he met died because Eddie was crossing the street and the driver collided with a truck and died.  Mitch Albom tells the readers the good that came from the situation and that Eddie did not pass away at such a young age.  Examples such as these represent Eddie’s entire life, and it demonstrates that mistakes occur in your life that is not under your control.  There is another example that occurs when he is at war.  The book goes through events in his life that had affected his life.

This relates to the curriculum of our course because afterlife is a very big concept of religion.  Some people do not believe in afterlife; some believe in reincarnation, and some believe that there is a heaven as suggested in this book.  This book goes over lessons that Eddie had learned from each specific situation.  Each chapter is a memory that he is brought back to that he may or may not have remembered.  This book was intriguing because it was a very interesting way to look at death.  Eddie was very surprised that he was taken back to the amusement park when he was taken to heaven; the amusement park was where he wanted to get away from.  I have never read a book like this where it started at the end of someone’s life.  The title of the first chapter is “The End,” and his life started at the end of his life.  It reviewed his life and referenced many important events in Eddie’s life.

This book can give participants a great deal of professional and personal growth because the book gives a unique perspective on death.  It demonstrates to readers that when you die that your previous life is not forgotten.  The things you do on Earth whether they are good or bad, can affect your afterlife.  Eddie was taught many lessons after his life; he became aware of many mistakes that he made but also the good that came out of some of his decisions.  Some participants may believe that people’s lives are simply irrelevant to their death; they believe that you live your life and then you die.  Mitch Albom explains an alternative situation where you are taken through your life as if they are reviewing the good and bad things you did in your life.

Eddie meets five people in heaven that help him understand his life more after his death.  First, was a man who died at the expense of seven year old Eddie crossing the road.  The man explains to Eddie after feeling sorrowful that it wasn’t his fault and there was some good that came out of the situation.  Eddie still did not seem to find the good in that situation.  Second, was his former war captain who shot him in his leg which made Eddie depressed for the rest of the life.  Eddie was trying to save a girl in a fire when his captain shot him.  This taught Eddie the lesson of sacrifice.  Third, was a girl who a pier was named after.  This was where Eddie’s father died, which represented a very significant part of Eddie’s life.  Even though Eddie did not get along with his father, he still was a very big part in his life.  The fourth person he met was Marguariete, who was the love of Eddie’s life.  Although they both didn’t know that they loved each other, they confessed that they loved each other, and Marguariete said that she loved Eddie even after her death.  The last person Eddie met was a young Asian girl named Tala, who was the girl in the fire that Eddie was trying to save.  Tala teaches his last lesson, and that his place in life was to be at Ruby Pier (the amusement park) keeping the children safe.

I thought this was a beautiful ending because Eddie was a generous and very kind person who had a very big heart.  His last lesson represented Eddie’s purpose of life.  It shows readers that we may have a destiny in our own lives which some religions believe that we are “pre-destined.”

 

Midterm Essay

This semester in World Religions has been very interesting.  I have learned a lot from the speakers that have come to our class.  More importantly, I was never aware of how many religions exist and the different variations of beliefs of followers of each religion.  The class has expanded my knowledge of many of the innovative religions around the world.  Because I am Roman Catholic, I thought it would be interesting to see the different divisions of Christianity.  I have realized that there are not major differences in the divisions of Christianity.  Minor differences such as the number of times they meet each week has been noted.  Overall, I feel like the class has developed my limited mind.  It has allowed me to become engaged with the many beliefs that have always existed around the world.

There have been no alterations to my beliefs and opinions on religion.  I am very accepting of all of the religions and find it stimulating and intriguing to learn about more religions around the world.  I find it very helpful to have an expert come in to the class and speak to us.  I feel as if it makes it more credible for the student as well as more motivating to the students because it is much better than reading out of a book and learning about these religions.  It assists us to have more of a vocal and innovative learning experience.

I would not change anything about this colloquium because the class has an overall positive effect on my learning experience.

 

RIDL1 #2

Religion in Daily Life Report

Title of  document or event- Eastern Connecticut Basketball Game

Reporter:  Matthew Brion

 

Date, Time of the Event                March 6^th, 2011.  1:00PM

 

Report Citation:                Eastern Connecticut vs. Brandeis University Men’s Basketball

 

Please provide a short summary of this event:  Eastern was in the championship game versus Brandeis University.  Unfortunately, they lost but they put up a good fight.  As in most cases, a basketball game is not very religious.  But, one of Eastern’s players did the sign of the cross before they took a foul shot.  This represents signs of the Christian faith.

 

How did this document, event display the role of religion in daily life?  It displays the role of religion because it shows signals and symbols that are of certain religions.  The sign of the cross is a signal of prayer.

 

How did this document, event reflect diversity in human life?  It reflected diversity in human life because it shows that some people demonstrate their diversity of religion publicly as well as privately.  It shows that the Christians have a very interesting way of showing their religion.

 

How did it reflect/influence your studies at Eastern?  It did not directly affect my studies at Eastern but rather has given me a better understanding of what religion plays in some Eastern student’s lives.

 

What do you want to learn, do after participating in this event or with this document?  I do not wish to learn anything further because there is not much else to learn.

 

RIDL1 #1

Religion in Daily Life Report

Title of  document or event- Catholic Mass

Reporter:  Matthew Brion

 

Date, Time of the Event                March 6^th, 2011.  8:00PM

 

Report Citation:                Church in the library at Eastern Connecticut State University

 

Please provide a short summary of this event:  The Father talked about the concept of Lent and how followers of the Catholic religion usually give up something for lent.  For instance, some people give up candy or soda.  He exemplifies that people need to do something extra for themselves to make them a better Catholic and overall person.

 

How did this document, event display the role of religion in daily life?  It displayed the role of religion in daily life because it was a weekly procession where Catholics gather together for worship.  They come together each Sunday and the priest preaches about God.

 

How did this document, event reflect diversity in human life?  It reflected diversity in human life because the Catholic church accepts everyone.  It holds no restrictions and is a very accepting religion.

 

How did it reflect/influence your studies at Eastern?  It did not directly affect my studies at Eastern but rather has given me access to a church on Sundays.  It is even better because it is at night.

 

What do you want to learn, do after participating in this event or with this document?  I do not wish to learn anything further because church is a daily thing that I have been going to since I was young.

 

Webliography

Websites Regarding Academic Achievement 1-10

1.       LaSalle University (2004).  Exam Study Skills.  Retrieved from                 http://lasalle.limestone.on.ca/library/studyskills1.htm

This website gives viewers and readers tips and skills in order to get a good grade on an exam.  They take you step by step before, during, and after the exam.

2.       Trustees of Dartmouth College (2008).  Academic Skills Center.  Retrieved from                 http://www.dartmouth.edu/~acskills/success/time.html

This website demonstrates to readers the advantages of time management, the importance of managing your time, and keys to managing your time.

3.       Prentice Hall (2002).  Time Management.  Retrieved from                 http://www.prenhall.com/success/StudySkl/timemanage.html

This website shows readers the dangers of too much fun and partying on campus and the importance to balance out your time and to implement excellent time management skills.

4.       Elmhurst College (2004).  The Thirteen Points.  Retrieved from                 http://www.elmhurst.edu/library/learningcenter/Note%20Taking%20Strategies/thirtee                n_points.htm

This site focuses on the importance of note taking and contains a survey which tests how well your notes are and if you are preparing for your tests sufficiently.

5.       College of Saint John’s University (2011).  Lecture Note Taking.                  http://www.csbsju.edu/academic-advising/study-skills-guide/lecture-note-taking.htm

This website reviews the importance of taking notes, tips for taking notes, and goes through step-by step how to take good notes.

6.       The College Board (2011).  The Power of Study Groups.  Retrieved from                 http://www.collegeboard.com/student/plan/high-school/50432.html

This website makes it clear that study groups do help and it explains the benefits and strengths of studying and worBryking together as a team.

7.       Carolyn Hopper (2003).  Ten Tips You Need to Survive College.  Retrieved from                 http://frank.mtsu.edu/~studskl/10tips.html

This website gives readers ten tips to survive college.  It is helpful because it focuses on the academic and social success of a college student.

8.       Carolyn Hopper (2003).  Memory Principles.  Retrieved from       http://frank.mtsu.edu/~studskl/mem.html

This website gives readers tips on memory fundamentals and teaches readers steps throughout the memory process. It gives them tips in remembering important information.

9.       Bryant J. Williams (2009).  Studying With the Doughnut On.  Retrieved from                 http://www.heardworld.com/higgaion/?p=1296

This website is from the point of view of a religious teacher.  He converses to readers the importance of studying and many other important aspects of studying.

10.   Meg Keeley (1997).  Test Taking Strategies.  Retrieved from        http://www.bucks.edu/~specpop/tests.htm

This website gives readers tips to studying before, during, and after the exam.  It is extremely helpful because it gives descriptive details to each step.

Websites Regarding Religion 11-20

11.   BBC Religion (2011).  Christianity.  Retrieved from             http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/christianity/

This website gives readers basic information of Christianity including beliefs, ethics, and the history of Christianity.  It gives readers a great understanding of Christianity.

12.   Tracy Rich (2008).  Welcome to Judaism 101!.  Retrieved from     http://www.jewfaq.org/index.htm

This website demonstrates the readers basic information of Judaism.  It goes over very interesting aspects of Judaism such as the Hebrew Alphabet and the Jewish Calender.

13.   Gyshe Gtaso (2007).  About Buddhism.  Retrieved from http://www.aboutbuddhism.org/

This website goes over the basics of Buddhism including the beliefs, history, and Buddhism today.  It is a great overview of a lot of information.

14.   Mandy Barrow (2006).  Hinduism.  Retrieved from http://www.woodlands- junior.kent.sch.uk/Homework/religion/hinduism.htm

This is a hands-on, easy to follow website that gives readers a basic overview of the religion of Hinduism.  It is easy to read and is very helpful.

15.   B.A. Robinson (2010).  Islam.  The Second Largest Religion.  Retrieved from                 http://www.religioustolerance.org/islam.htm

This website is an in-depth information site on the Islamic religion.  It helps readers understand the basis and some specific information about Islams.

16.    ReligionFacts(2011).  Roman Catholicism.  Retrieved from                 http://www.religionfacts.com/christianity/denominations/catholicism.htm

This website goes over the practices, beliefs, and history of Roman Catholics.  It explains that Catholic is a denomination and other major aspects of Roman Catholics.

17.   GatewayforIndia (2005).  Jainism.  Retrieved from                 http://www.gatewayforindia.com/other_religions/jainism.htm

This website is an overview of the basics of Jainism, one of the world’s oldest world religions.  It also gives links to other helpful websites regarding Jainism.

18.   Sikhnet (2009).  Introduction to Sikhism.  Retrieved from http://fateh.sikhnet.com/s/SikhIntro

This website is an introduction to the beliefs of followers of the Sikhism religion.  It mentions the ten sikh gurus and the making of the khalsa.

19.   Philip Pscornio (2001). Philosophy of Religion.  Retrieved from                 http://www2.sunysuffolk.edu/pecorip/scccweb/etexts/phil_of_religion_text/chapter_2 _religions/taoism.htm

This website is an overview of China’s famous religion, Taoism.  It goes over the history and mainly introduces many of the beliefs of Taoism.

20.   ReligionFacts (2011).  Orthodox Judaism.  Retrieved from                 http://www.religionfacts.com/judaism/denominations/orthodox.htm

This website is a subgroup of Judaism and it illustrates many of the beliefs and differences of Orthodox Jews.  It is a very helpful site.

A4- Sunflower 2

The Sunflower’s second part of the book features perspectives, reflections, and responses by various people.  There are some in which I found very interesting, some I agree with, and some I disagree with.  I have picked the three perspectives that in my opinion, were the most worth noting, and ones in which I found that stood above the rest of them.

The first perspective I picked was the one from Alan L. Berger.  I found this one interesting because he rose many significant questions that I never would have thought of.  He also made many outstanding scenarios, which enhances my overall view of the book.  I thought the most important thing he said in his excerpt was his actual response.  His response was “do not forgive someone for whom forgiveness is forbidden.  He illustrates the beliefs of the Jews and how it relates to Simon’s decision.  This response, in my opinion, made the most sense because the reason of Simon’s decision was transformed into a simplistic, and logical reason rather than a complicated and complex reason.  This response simply said that he did not want to forgive someone who had murdered someone.  From the beliefs of the Jews, it is understandable, and Berger captures a great view in Simon’s mind at the time.

The second perspective I picked was one by Harry James Cargas.  This raises the question, “Should Adolf Hitler be forgiven?”  This question raised my curiosity on Simon’s scenario because it brings forth many of the things that Hitler has done that cannot be forgiven and are unforgiveable.   After writing my first response about the Sunflower, I said that it would be okay if we forgave Karl.  However, after coming across this question, I thought differently.  Because I am Catholic, it also means that murder is a sin.  Forgiveness is not so easy if murder is the sin.  His response also brings power to his opinion.  He says: “For me the question is not can we forgive Karl or should we forgive Karl, but dare we do so?  Although Cargas has a strong opinion towards the subject, he makes a good point that Karl should not be forgiven.

The last perspective I picked was one by Smail Balic.  I do not agree with many parts of this perspective, and I don’t think his response directly relates and I viewed the book in a whole different perspective.  I do not agree with the quote he mentions, “No doctor should go to a person who has fallen from a minaret if he has not experienced this type of fall himself. “  I do not see how this relates or why he would pick to talk about this in his response.  I also don’t understand out of all of the themes and aspects of the book, why he picked to talk about crime and punishment. I think he missed the point of the book and missed the entire idea of forgiveness in his response.  I don’t think he should have talked about half the things he talked about.