Blog Post #10

 Working on Assignment #5: PowerPoint Interaction helped me develop several new technical and instructional skills. I learned how to create nonlinear navigation using hyperlinks and kiosk mode, which completely changes how a presentation functions compared to a traditional slideshow. I also improved my ability to design interactive content, especially by turning literary analysis into a Jeopardy-style game that encourages discussion and critical thinking. One thing I liked about the assignment was how creative and flexible it was, since I could tailor it to my interest in literature and teaching while also using digital media to design how I like. However, I didn't enjoy the technical troubleshooting, especially with navigation buttons and audio, which was frustrating. I kept trying to add a hyperlink to a photo which I realized was not possible. If I were to improve this project next time, I would spend more time testing the links earlier / watching a tutorial earlier than I did.

As a future creative writing professor, I think data collection tools like Qualtrics could be very useful for understanding student engagement and learning preferences. I could use surveys at the beginning of the semester to assess students' familiarity with certain texts, genres, or critical approaches, which would help me better tailor my syllabus. Mid-semester surveys could provide insight into how students are responding to assignments like workshops or analytical essays, allowing me to adjust pacing or expectations. I could also use anonymous feedback to understand participation levels or any barriers students my be experiencing in class discussions. Using data this way would help me create a more responsive and effective learning environment while also improving my teaching over time. 

One technology-related skill I would like to learn next is how to design more advanced digital learning experiences, such as interactive modules or online literary resources. My SMART goal is to learn the basics of an instructional design platform (such as Articulate Rise or a similar tool) and create one fully developed interactive lesson within the next month. To achieve this, I will spend 30 minutes, three times a week, watching tutorials and practicing with the platform. I will also look at examples of digital humanities of interactive literature projects for inspiration and try to apply similar ideas. By the end of the month, I aim to have a polished, classroom-ready activity that I could realistically use in a future college-course. 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Blog Post #1

Image
 In this class, I’m hoping to learn how educational technology can actually work for students rather than just existing as another thing to click through. As a creative writing and interdisciplinary humanities major, I’m curious about how digital tools can support creativity without killing the soul of the work. I want to understand how technology can be used intentionally, especially in writing and discussion based classes, rather than just as busy work. Since my long-term goal is to earn an MFA and eventually become a professor of creative writing, I’m interested in how I might use what I learn here to design engaging courses in the future, especially as classrooms become more hybrid and tech-reliant.  I’ve used technology in school pretty consistently, from learning management systems like Canvas to shared documents and online discussion boards. Most of my writing process already happens digitally (mainly google docs), whether that’s drafting essays or workshopping literary...
Read more

Blog Post #8

Image
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...
Read more

Blog #3

Image
 Working with copyright and fair use has made me much more aware of the responsibility teachers and students have when creating or sharing work. As an educator, I would ensure that all instructional materials I develop follow copyright laws, either by using my own original content, obtaining permission, or relying on materials that are clearly under fair use or public domain. When having students create their own works, I would emphasize the importance of citing sources, avoiding plagiarism, and respecting others' intellectual property. I learned that even small images or text excerpts can be protected, so careful consideration is necessary, and this makes me think critically about how to integrate media responsibly. I still wonder about the fine line between fair use for teaching versus commercial or online sharing, and I plan to continue researching best practices to make informed decisions.  One technology implementation issue that concerns me is academic dishonesty, especi...
Read more