Introduction
Throughout the semester so far, I have been furthering my learning in various topics. I’ve been mostly enjoying applying the skills that I’ve been picking up in my major related classes, specifically when it comes to data representation and collection. On the other end of the spectrum, I have been struggling this semester in particular with coming up with new ideas, which isn’t a problem that I’ve really had before. I want to continue to develop the odd numbered goals, especially number five, which is the area that I think I’m lacking the most confidence in.
Goal 1 (15%)
Demonstrates a thorough understanding of context, audience, and purpose.
I do not currently have any artifacts to show for this goal, however, I am planning on putting my digital storytelling guide in when it is finished. I believe that the content of my guide will be relevant to my audience of people who are new to and want to start digital storytelling. The purpose of the guide will be to provide information and support to people who want to create digital stories.
Goal 2 (20%)
Skillfully represents quantitative information
This artifact was probably the most fun one to obtain out of any I’ve done, particularly because the process of obtaining it required a skill set that I have more confidence in. Although I have programmed before, this was the first time that I’ve actually made a physical product using that skill. The best part about this product was that it got me to think of other ways to use skills of mine that I hadn’t thought about before.
Goal 3 (10%)
Systematically analyzes assumptions to develop logical plans to solve problems.
I plan on using the final project as an artifact for this goal. This is primarily due to the process of creating that final product, and how in makes us have assumptions in regard to dissemination. The primary problem that we are faced with now is that we need to find a new target audience. This is a problem now, but also an opportunity for me to develop this goal. Finding the place to show our work would, I feel, be a great showing of skill in the area of this goal.
Goal 4 (30%)
Connects and extends knowledge from academic study to civic engagement.
This is some of the raw code that was used to create the crime map shown above. This was a new learning experience for me as well because the coding language was one that I had no experience with, so I got to learn how it worked. A lot of the code for the main section was from a GitHub repository, however, all of the process for turning the data that Madison found into a relevant CSV section was my work.
Goal 5 (25%)
Helps collaboration move forward by articulating the merits of alternative ideas.
For this artifact, I plan on adding in notes/talking points that I come up with before meetings. The notes would be of a few different perspectives on where we could take the topic of the respective meeting. This would show a development in thinking from multiple points of view and, hopefully, putting those thoughts into action for our final project.