The photo you chose is an excellent example of societies ever shifting recognition of the LGBTQ community. It definitely recognizes the aspect of growth and development within the city, and the people who reside here. I like your quote “a place that actively promotes inclusion and diversity”. I think this is a perfect representation of how Calgarians, and Canadians are becoming today.

Photo 2:

Great sculpture to find, as this has probably been overlooked by thousands of people! The irony that you point out is almost perfect, I think that is an incredible interpretation of the sculpture. I definitely think you can unpack the point of importance nature has, and the role people have to protect it etc. 

Photo 3:

I really like the contrast of the yellow/orange leaves against a grey brick background. Your connections between the identity, the Olympics, and communities were really well grounded. I think you could make an additional connection with falling leaves and lack of nature within downtown Calgary, and conservation.

Photo 4:

This photo would work great in an interdisciplinary lesson or assignment, for a number of reasons that you pointed out with the history of the school system in Alberta. I think the aspect of sandstone and the importance of it with other city buildings (Old City Hall), would be a cool idea. Great idea linking this to education directly as well, while looking at the city’s humble roots. 

Thanks for the great pictures!

Looking forward to working with you on our next photovoice assignment!

 

Cam 

 

Jason, I absolutely love this photo and I can't believe that I haven't seen this yet! I like how you mentioned that the small act of painting stripes of colour can have a profound welcoming effect on people. My partner moved from Ontario to Alberta and mentioned that his favourite thing about Calgary was how welcoming, accepting and genuine people seem to be. I like your connection to the Grade 1 Social Studies curriculum, and "sense of belonging" in the world. This photo could lead to a discussion of symbols in our society, as well as the difference in symbols in communities of Calgary. In Grade 5 we talk about Canada and the shaping of it's identity, and I think this would be a good opportunity to talk about what makes up our Canadian identity.  We pride ourselves on being accepting and I think this photo provides insight into how we are not afraid to share this identity "out in the open" for all to see. 

 

Photo 2:

 

This photo is my absolute favourite and yet another sight I have not seen in Calgary. I really liked your description of the picture as "small and unassuming". If I were to stumble upon this sculpture amongst the bustling Bow Building downtown, I think it would provide a nice, serene moment of introspection. The more I learn about Canada's history and more locally, Calgary's history, I realize the vast variation in stories that contribute to our identity. I am becoming more and more aware of Aboriginal ways of knowing and locally, the signing of Treaty 7. I think including aspects of respecting nature and our surroundings into the classroom can help in sparking interest in young minds. As citizens we must work together to contribute to society, as well as taking care of and advocating for the environment that we live in. 

 

Photo 3:

 

I like how this picture draws attentions to the names on each brick, as I have never paid any attention to this aspect when I came here as a kid. I really enjoyed your symbolism of the fallen leaves and change of season in Calgary.

 

Photo 4:

 

I walk by this building all the time and I enjoy looking at and admiring it. If there's one thing I think Calgary is lacking, it is historical or heritage buildings. I love admiring and spending time near the heritage buildings as I think they pay tribute, as well as provide insight into where we have came from. I wish there was a little more heritage in Calgary left standing as we seem to be tearing things down and building anew. As i dig into Calgary's history, we have a past that is a lot more interesting than first glance presents. I love how you touched on the fact that students of all grades were housed in a single room, and teachers were responsible for different ages and levels. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed with the task of juggling a variety of learning groups and abilities at the same time, and this picture--with it's historical explanation--brought me a sense of relief. Teaching is a dynamic and demanding job; it always has been and I believe it always will be. However, the impact that teachers can have on numerous young minds is beautiful. Education is a big part of society and it would be interesting to look into the different forms and structures of education. Incorporating Aboriginal ways of knowing will be important teaching in Alberta--especially with the upcoming change in curriculum.

 

I enjoy working with you, think you have a lot of insight and genuine emotion behind all of your contributions and work. I enjoyed your posts and I look forward to creating our presentation! 

 

Chelsey