Final Blog

Part 1: What kind of mind are you?

If I had to pick, I would say that I am a synthesizing mind. I would say this because I pick up on new things easily and learn quickly. I am also good at explaining an idea or a process to people around me who don't understand. I can come up with different ways to help myself and others remember information. I have good study habits and methods to help myself be successful in classes.

Part 2: Choose three below and explain how you exemplified each.

Ask provocative questions. I have asked provocative questions in numerous posts in my blog. These questions stimulate a thought process for the reader. By challenging the reader to carefully review their own decisions they have made in the past, these questions tie the reader to the topic and connect the topic to their own personal lives.

Exhibit respect for other viewpoints. In parts of my blog, I try to look at tanning from the point of view of those who are strongly in favor of tanning beds. I blogged about the positive aspects of tanning beds as well as why people are attracted to them. In doing this, I was able to better understand the viewpoints of those supporting tanning beds and those against tanning beds. I remained open to what each group had to say and how they defended their choices and beliefs in my posts.

Exhibit curiosity. I was able to exhibit curiosity when I began to research about tanning beds. I went in depth with my research by finding and posting the pros and cons of tanning, how tanning affects different people in good and bad ways, and how tanning has become such a controversial issue in today's society. Also, I found a specific case from my research of a pageant girl from Indiana who had been diagnosed with a form of melanoma skin cancer. I even researched a popular alternative to tanning beds, the spray tan, to compare how people see the good and bad in both trends. Overall, I exhibited curiosity throughout this entire new experience of blogging.

Part 3: What did I realize, or learn, that surprised me most after developing my blog?

After developing my blog, I realized how dangerous tanning beds can really be. I also learned that many people will deny that they are really making bad choices for themselves until it is too late. I learned that even though people are somewhat aware of these possible dangerous consequences that come with their decisions, they still place their appearance before their health. They don't pay enough attention to the warnings all around them, and they don't think that anything bad can happen to them. I realized that I can also relate to these people. Being a teenager, I am also very concerned about my self-esteem and my self image. But now that I have researched tanning beds and have a better understanding of the risks that come with tanning, I will certaintly think twice before making my next appointment at the tanning bed.