Blog Post #8

Working on the Web Design assignment helped me learn several new skills related to building and designing a website. I practiced organizing content and creating working links between different pages. One design principle I focused on was visual consistency, because I wanted the entire site to feel cohesive and aesthetic. My website had a fig theme inspired by Sylvia Plath’s prose, so I used similar fig-colored tones, imagery, and fonts across the pages to create a unified look. I also used the design principle of contrast so the text would stand out clearly against the background and be easy to read. One thing I didn’t love about the assignment was getting all of the links to work correctly between the pages, because that part was a little frustrating and took some trial and error. However, I really enjoyed the creative side of the project and making something that looks beautiful and meaningful. Website design skills could be useful in my future career as a professor because educators often create class websites where students can find information. 

QR codes could be a creative way to make classroom activities more interactive. One idea would be to create a QR code scavenger hunt where students move around the classroom scanning codes that link to questions, short readings, or discussion prompts. For example, in one of my literature class each QR code could link to a quote or explanation of a theme. This would encourage movement and collaboration while still focusing on the lesson content. QR codes could also be placed on classroom posters or worksheets that link to extra resources, videos, or review materials for students who want additional help. Using QR codes in this way could make lessons more engaging while helping students practice using technology responsibly. 

An example of a case study would be a professor discovering that another professor at their school is using generative AI to create lesson plans, assignments, and grading feedback. Some colleagues believe this saves time and improves productivity, while others worry that it could reduce the quality or originality of the teaching materials. 

If I encountered this situation, I would personally choose not to rely on generative AI for my teaching materials because I believe lesson plans and assignments should come directly from the teacher’s own ideas and understanding of their students. Instead. I would focus on using my own creativity and training to design lessons that feel authentic and tailored to my classroom. At the same time, I would approach the situation respectfully, recognizing that teachers use different strategies to manage their workload. I would encourage open discussions among staff about ethical technology use and emphasize the importance of maintaining originality, academic integrity, and professional responsibility in teaching.