HALLELUJAH

I never thought I would see the day! My writing portfolio is FINISHED. I am very happy with it and can see it as being a very helpful resource to me in the future. I'm very proud of how it turned out. The differences in skill level between my original WRA 210 page and my final site is quite observable. I can't believe how much I now know how to do concerning CSS and HTML. It is always nice to take a class and be able to visually see how much you've learned and take something as useful as this website away from it. Thanks for the wonderful times and unreal amount of stress WRA 210, this is our final goodbye, it's been real.

the final product

final site part cuarto

The final change I made to my site was adding more to the sample writing page. I added two more writings and descriptions of each writing piece. I think I chose a wide variety of writings by including two group projects detailing how to create an identity, one paper about making rhetorical arguments through ethos and pathos, and my last one was an American Sign Language documentation project. I also updated my contact info page to look a little better and have a direct email link.

final site part tres

Other additions I have made changed my design blog page. Originally I just had it that if you clicked on the "design blog" tab it would take you right to this exact page. However, I read over the assignment sheet for the final and realized it needed to be a html page with a style sheet, just like my other tabs. I'm glad I realized this. Now, I have a design blog page that takes you to another sub page like my other tabs and has a description of the journal and a link to click and be brought here.

final site part duex

I've only been at the union for an hour or so but have made a lot of progress with my site. I did change the main image to the pen and trees one that I posted a few days ago. So I'm glad the image is getting use since I didn't use the banner with that image. The other picture was originally of Paris at night time and was pretty but I suppose not exactly relevant.

final site

I just got to the union and don't intend on leaving until my site is finished. I really hope it can turn out the way I'd like and have envisioned it. I am thinking of changing the main graphic on my homepage, maybe to the image that I posted in here a few days ago, but I think it might look distorted because I'm thinking it isn't the correct size. Maybe I can be tech savvy and find a way to scale it down.

sunday morning!

I guess it's not morning since it's technically 1:58 pm. Morning just constitutes as the time before I actually get out of bed and start being productive.. obviously. I am hoping there are no strange hours at the Union's computer lab so that I'll be able to go and be productive today. I could probably look online but this seems like a lot of effort so I shall pray that I'm just lucky and it's open for me. I have put a few more papers on my flash-drive (from last semester) to add to my website so hopefully it's headed in the right direction.

hello

I'm taking the day off from WRA 210, but figured I could still update my design journal. So I guess I'm not really taking the day off.. oh well. Now that mod 5 is finished all I have left is fixing my website. I need to decide beforehand how I want to adjust it. I think I'd like to add more sample writing pieces considering I only have three, and maybe add a description about what each writing is about. I'm not sure what else I could add to my resume tab or contact tab but I will spend some time looking at it tomorrow. For now, I will sit on my couch, watch Pearl Harbor, and eat salsa. See ya.

seeya mod 5!!

I'm so happy to have finally completed module five! Eight pages and two thousand words later and I can finally say I'm DONE!!! I guess that is my last paper for WRA 210, once I put the finishing touches on my portfolio and write a few more blog entries WRA 210 will be no more. This class has not been easy for me and provided a lot of stress but I can honestly say I have learned a lot. It's a Friday night, I need to get out of the basement of the union. Farewell for now!

pretty picturesss

In procrastinating finishing my paper I rediscovered this image that I used in my banner. I like it so much, it seems to represent how much imagination, creativity, and possibility writing holds. I wanted to make sure that I posted it so I could remember it since it's cut down and scaled in my banner and I think the original is beautiful.

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/2MM0BR/maclab.guhsd.net/students/blog/writing_trees.jpg

usability

I think I will have to spend some time today looking at my usability documents and figuring out how to improve my website. Sadly I only got about one a half usability documents back with feedback so hopefully that's enough to make some improvements.

mod 5

I worked on my identity document in class today and was able to add my banners, color schemes, and logos. I will still need to add my gradient but this has given me a better idea of what I need to focus on in my paper. I think I have everything that I need it in and just need to add more details about why I chose each color scheme etc. I am also happy to see that I don't actually have to include my logo because with the presence of my banner (which also has an image in it) my site would look rather cluttered.

evaluation

• Which module was the most helpful to you and why?
  
• I found module four to be most helpful because I think that is when I finally became more comfortable with CSS and templates. Module three was also helpful because I was able to see everything you could do wrong and use this in creating my websites.
  
• Which module was the least helpful to you and why?
  
• Module two was a little confusing to me, but once I realized what I was supposed to be doing it came together better for me.
  
• What needs to be added to this course to make it more worthwhile for future students?
  
• I think, personally, I needed a little more direction. Usually I figured it out by myself eventually, but I spent a lot of time being rather lost and confused within the modules. I understand that would be difficult to gauge since everyone is at different skill levels, but when we first started with dreamweaver and photoshop I had no idea how to do anything which was frustrating.
  
• On our course syllabus I listed what I thought were the key objectives of this class, but what do YOU believe were the focal points of WRA 210 and why?
  
• WRA 210 taught me a lot; mainly how to expand greatly on my computer skills gained from CSE 101. I know now so much more about dreamweaver and css and learned it in a way that I think I will be able to retain better.
  

mod 5

I have added more to my identity document. Although I'm slightly confused as to if I'm on the right track with writing this because it needs to be different than what I reported in Mod 4. So far, I have just been explaining the color design theories I used in my color schemes and how that relates to my audience. Also, the importance of logos and establishing an identity. I hope I'm doing this correctly!

mod 5

I realize now how easy it is to do all the things I was stressed about yesterday! I went a little early today and was able to fix my resume, sample writings, and contact info tabs. It turns out that all you have to do to get the same format on each sub page is copy and paste the style sheet.. who knew! Also, linking word documents was as simple as linking the pages. I am going to spend some time reading the feedback I received from my usability document and hopefully find ways to improve my site. However, I'm much happier with it now than I was last night. Things finally seem to be coming together, hallelujah.

mod 5

I made some progress with mod 5 on Friday. I missed class on Thursday because I was sick so I've been playing catch up a little. I updated my original course website which is funny to see how awful it was. Not that I'm much better at web design now.. but having templates to work with does help. I just can't figure out how to do things like attach a word document (my resume tab). Or figure out how to duplicate my original pages for my tabs (which I feel like should be easy). I think I need to utilize some office hours, WRA 210 seems to be the source of all my stress this semester!

week 14

I am feeling very overwhelmed with module 5. At first I thought this would be a module based only on completing the final site, but now I realize how many components go into it. I feel much better after being able to say that I completed my three color schemes, three gradients, three banners, and three logos. I never knew I would be able to say I have a small level of comfort with photoshop. I still do not think its anywhere near comparable to some of my classmates' knowledge, but hey, it's a start. I guess that means that I can start writing my identity document to make myself feel better about the amount of work I have to complete in the next two weeks. I feel better now that I have a draft of my usability document that I just need to tweak and add to by Friday. I just need to make sure that the tasks I'm proposing are actually possible on my website! I finally reopened Dreamweaver today for one of the first times since Mod 4 and have begun editing my site so that it is closer to being completed for the final. However, now I'm worried about what kind of writing to include in the sample document tab. I guess writings from WRA 202 and WRA 260? Or maybe it was WRA 240. I will have to look into it. Also, my resume could use some updating. I am just praying I'm able to complete this all.

week fourteen

1) What benefits does a web author gain in considering issues of usability and accessibility when designing, updating, writing, and maintaining a site?

Usability helps assure that the web author's site will remain useful and up to date. If it does not comply with usability standards, those who have issues with it will forget about it and move onto a new website that does comply.

2) What are two aspects regarding usability you feel more confident in or know more about than when the class began?

When it comes to usability, I learned the value of evaluating these websites with other websites (like validator) to make sure sites are tested for color blindness. I also learned the importance of using HTML in a consistent and appropriate way.

3) What are two aspects regarding accessibility you feel more confident in or know more about than when the class began?

I learned the real purpose of accessibility and catering to your audience. Aspects like making sure the website is still readable when the font size is increased and the pictures are omitted are things I did not consider until recently.

week13

1) What is/was your design process for creating a logo for your site?

I have started to create my logo but I'm not sure if I'm happy with the final product. I basically just did variations of the letter "S" for Stephanie. I'm confused as to if this is what my logos should look like. I used colors from my three different color palates in creating my logos. I think I need to make them more memorable.

2) What is/was the most difficult part of this process?

The most difficult part for me was figuring out how to use Photoshop and all the different filters and ways I could alter my logos.

3) What will help/helped you the most in creating a logo that is most appropriate?

I think looking at other logos and figuring out why they were successful will help me create an appropriate one. Once I am able to pick out these traits, I will be able to apply them to mine.

week 12

I guess I'm still confused when it comes to usability. I don't know what my draft is supposed to look like; maybe like the MSU web access checklist? The posted documents for usability seem very long and confusing and I don't know how I'd create something like that. Section 508 basically just made me realize that there are laws ensuring that those with disabilities have equal access to online information. The usability.gov website seemed helpful because it conducts usability tests. However, I'd say that I am still rather confused about usability as a whole. I understand that it's implemented to grant fairness but I need to figure out how it applies to me and my site.

week12

I think both the MSU website and State of Michigan (SOM) website look so much better! Both seemed outdated and overwhelming to try and find what you need. I like the new look of the task buttons that are on the SOM website because they look very modern and help break up the many different subtasks at the top. I also really like the pier and lighthouse banner at the top because it represents Michigan well. The SOM website still looks a little cluttered to me, but I think it's much better than before. I think the MSU website looks a lot better but I'm not sure about the new task buttons. Before, it was very user friendly by having different task buttons for whoever would visit the site, but now these are buried a little more. Maybe it just takes a little getting used to, which I don't think people would be opposed to. I really like the new colors and how there is a dark green banner at the top and a light green band under that.

week 11

I missed some of the week 11 readings but have gone back and read them. I found the article "How Google Got Its Colorful Logo" to be very interesting because since it is such a recognized symbol now, it is interesting to see what it could have been. I definitely think they made the right choice because I don't really like any of the other logos. As always (this is becoming quite a pattern), I seem to be rather confused when it comes to Mod 5. I I feel like there are many parts to it which I don't understand, especially what is due next week. Also, I don't know if I should be creating a logo for myself? I am just not a photoshop expert like many in our class so I feel very behind already. Hopefully I will get some clarification tomorrow.

session 2 week 11

1. Which document - aside from your own creation of course - did you find most helpful in discussing what should be included in an Identity Document? Why?

I thought that Karen Confer's powerpoint was helpful because it seemed to give a well rounded explanation to what creates a company's identity. She explored images, fonts, colors and audience in a way that made me feel as if I had gained a general understanding about all these topics. I also liked Ariel, Andrew and Lauren's powerpoint because they gave tips in steps for creating an identity which I thought was a good idea. Their powerpoint was very thorough and probably the best one I saw because it looked like it could have been presented to a small company looking to create an identity and expand their brand.

1. Looking back at the Module 5 assignment sheet, as well as the documents for your Final Course Site and the Usability Test, what questions do you still have for me?

I have questions concerning what is actually due before the final site because on the assignment sheet it says it's due April 29 but the link to mod 5 says it's due May 3, so I don't understand if we have to turn something in before the final.

1. Where are you confused the most and what will realistically (since, no, not having to do the assignment isn't an option - SORRY!) help you resolve these issues?

I am confused as to if we are just writing a paper about what helps create an identity or logo or if we are actually creating this graphic elements. The assignment sheet says to create three of either a banner or color scheme etc so I'm confused as to if we actually need three of each that are listed or if those are simply examples of what we could do.

week 11

1. What did our readings say about these colors?

Although I originally planned to incorporate light yellow into my page, so far my page is only dark pink, white, black and grey. These colors strongly impact how viewers perceive my site because while black and white barely hold attention, colors are much more effective. This made me realize that if I want to keep my black and white design, it's important to realize what I have in color, as that will be a focal point.

1. How do some of these color meanings relate - or not - to what you want your site to do?

These color meanings relate to my site because I need to learn how to attract my audience's attention and invoke certain feelings. The article about the "Business of Blue" made me realize that I am glad I didn't make just a plain blue site.

1. What was an interesting result to one or more of the colors you have chosen?

I learned that black and white is not really stored in our brains as well as color, which makes me question if that means my site will not be stored as well. However, I think I want to keep my black and white color scheme with the dark pink accent because I like how clean black looks.

1. Has your ideas about your color scheme changed or not because of our readings? Explain.

It has changed because I am now thinking the light yellow I planned on using wouldn't fit in very well.

FINISHED

There seems to be no greater moment of happiness or feelings of sheer accomplishment than when I hit "submit" and turn in another module. Considering that about a week ago, I had no idea what I was doing with Mod 4 and most of the changes that I made in the first week didn't even get saved, I can't believe the progress that I made. I successfully made two attractive pages for my portfolio and just finished my paper. I am actually excited to see how the portfolio will come together now that I understand it better. Now for a much needed mental break until it all begins again!

mod 4

Mod 4 is still confusing me but I'm making progress. I can't believe how much writing the paper has helped give me direction. Even though my site was finished, beginning the paper showed me what I would write about when it was finished so I knew what to focus on in class or in the library, where I have access to Dreamweaver. I am also relieved to learn that I can leave the latin that the template came with, I thought that I would have to have a completed index page and secondary page, but now I realize learning how to alter CSS is more of the goal. This has also helped me feel much more confident about the final project which I was already dreading and stressed about.

class week 10

1) In the reading, "Design Decisions vs. Audience Considerations," Ragle - Davis states that, "If you know who your target audience is, you can tailor your site’s look and feel, content, and action areas to appeal to your audience and draw them in. If you know what your site visitors want, you can use that information to mutual benefit." She then proceeds to walk through an example of a site for a political candidate by illustrating her knowledge of who the audience is and what they want. How would you answer this for your final project site?

-In reading this article, I was able to grasp the importance of tailoring my website to my audience. As Davis mentions, if my users don't easily find what they're looking for and become engaged with my site then it does not serve its purpose. Since I know my audience's intention, I realize it will be important to provide contact information for myself. I think I will have one page that is a homepage and then my second page will either be contact info or a sample page of my writing but I'm not sure what writing would be appropriate to choose.

mod 4

I've made some progress with mod 4. Although I am still extremely confused when it comes to the CSS I guess I will just try and figure that out in class tomorrow. I started writing my paper which helped give me more guidance on how to create my webpage, even though it's not finished. It helped me realize where I need to focus my work (primary users, primary purposes). I am looking forward to mod 4 being done with because I feel very overwhelmed and under qualified when it comes to CSS!

write up

There is a lot of progress I need to make regarding Mod 4. I need to figure out my content for the final site and make sure that it applies. I also need to figure out how to work the templates because every time I save them they seem to be empty folders. I am starting to get frustrated with Mod 4 because I feel like I'm making no progress and don't really understand it but I guess it will just take reading over the explanation a few more times.

mod 4

I am also curious as to if I should be creating sites for my portfolio or updating my mod 3 sites but I'm thinking it makes more sense to create mod 4 sites for my portfolio since those will require less work in the end results. Considering my mod 3 was about Justin Bieber, that really won't benefit my mod 4 progress or final site. I guess this is another thing I will figure out tomorrow!

mod 4

I am having some difficulties with mod 4. I'm confused as to where to start but i think once a choose two templates I will feel better about it. I looked for a lot yesterday but most seemed ugly and childish so I hope I can find some that I like and will represent my portfolio well. However, I don't really know where to go once I choose the templates and have to apply that to the actual mod 4 but I suppose I will figure that out in class tomorrow!

week 9

1) What are 3 things you have learned about CSS? These can based on your prior knowledge or what you gained from the our readings that dealt with CSS, but please indicate your source.
- I have learned that CSS can enhance a presentation by making it look more professional with style sheets
- I have also learned that CSS can consistently control factors such as color, size, text width, and typeface.
- Lastly, I learned that you can create rules in CSS

2) Why is CSS helpful for web authors? Try and link this to details from the chapters we have read earlier in Zeldman.

-CSS is helpful to web authors because it creates a consistency throughout sub pages of a website. This is more professional because it is more user friendly. This also helps create a standard compliant website.

3) What are two things to always remember when you are using style sheets for your design and why are they important tips?

-When using style sheets, it is important to remember to use the tag SPAN at the beginning and end of attributes to the style sheet. Also, you must edit your style sheet in .css format and it will show up and be applied to .html documents.

Post the link for at least one of the two tentative cascading style sheets you intend to use for your Module 4 assignment - if you are designing both on your own give a short description of the basic structure of the design. After your link answer the following questions:

I am having trouble finding templates that are attractive and free, but so far I like these ones: (although I'm confused as to if I can change the pictures)

http://www.csstemplatesforfree.com/previewcsstemplate.aspx?csstemplateName=veggie

http://www.csstemplatesforfree.com/previewcsstemplate.aspx?csstemplateName=swanky

http://www.csstemplatesforfree.com/previewcsstemplate.aspx?csstemplateName=quadrangle

http://www.csstemplatesforfree.com/previewcsstemplate.aspx?csstemplateName=flowery

http://www.csstemplatesforfree.com/previewcsstemplate.aspx?csstemplateName=tropical

4) How does this style sheet relate to your site's purpose? Give examples and be specific.

-This style sheet relates to my site's purpose because they have many tabs where I could showcase my work and are for the most part, visually appealing.

5) How does this style sheet relate to your main users? Give examples and be specific.

-This relates to my users because there is room for contact info so that ease of use is created for the user.

6) What do you intend on making different with your choice for your second style sheet? How will it illustrate a different set of design principles or address your purpose and/or users in a way that this first one is not? This is the key to Module 4 so really think about this. If you don't know yet, state that, but think about what are you going to do to be ABLE to answer this!

- I don't really know yet. To figure this out I will have to look into Mod 4 and work on my first style sheet and once I have that established I'll know how to alter my second style sheet.

sample pages

Well, today I learned how to edit CSS. It was confusing at first but I think I was able to grasp how the .css page affected the .html page. However, I wasn't able to complete my third sample page which would have a template because the stuff it expander wouldn't let me download the new version that was needed. I don't really understand templates or where I will paste that on my new page but I guess I'll learn soon. It was helpful to see the webpage that my classmates had created since I really don't grasp CSS. I feel behind and like everyone knows what they're doing but I'm sure it will become more clear. So, I guess that will have to wait till after spring break! I also was able to add these new links to my original index page. This will probably be my last post until after spring break so farewell!

on to the next one.. mod 4?

I guess it's time to actually start thinking about my final site project. I think I want to start my professional writing portfolio since that seems like the smart thing to do.. since it is my major and will be helpful for future jobs and internships. However, I think I need to spend some time understanding it because I'm completely lost right now and have no idea what I'll put on this website. I am hoping I can find an attractive template, I seem to be rather web-design challenged. I don't want to put off my site plan until I get back from spring break so hopefully I can start it this week. However, I have four exams wednesday and an essay exam the next day so I'm not sure if I'll have the time to start on it that I want to. All I can think about is leaving the arctic land of Michigan and being on the beach in Naples, FL!

mod 3

I finished mod 3! I'm concerned that I didn't use the correct Zeldman readings after talking to Teagan today but I hope mine still apply. Also, I hope that using "A List Apart" still applied. I'm happy to be done with my paper, and got my grade back on Mod 2 and did well so I'm happy because I put a lot of time into it.

mod 3

I am still working on mod 3 but I'm almost done. I'm actually glad the paper was assigned because I think it gave me room to discuss my website and point out things that wouldn't be noticed by just looking at it. For example, my audience and purpose discussion were explaining thoroughly in my paper and that most likely wouldn't have been picked up on by just reading the site. I was also glad that I was able to tie in the "A List Apart" article about the value of homepages. I wish I knew how to do more on dreamweaver and also wish that my computer in the lab wouldn't crash every time I open it!

question 2

What structure or layout do you envision for your site?

Honestly, I haven't thought much about my site. I want it to look professional and visually appealing. I need to utilize contrast and repetition (as CRAP taught me) so I was thinking it would have a black background and similar design throughout. Also, most websites that have the task buttons lined up on the top are most effective so I will have to figure out what my most important tasks are and build from there.

question 1

What goals would you like to accomplish with your final project site? (Think of three beyond "To get a good grade" or "Complete the course").

I would like to start building my portfolio with my final project site. I would hope that by doing so it will reflect what I've learned and how I've grown as a web author. I also hope that it will demonstrates my abilities as a professional writer. Lastly, in the work place, being able to create and work with web design is becoming imperative so I'm hoping that this project will help me in the future with any career that I may encounter.

interestinggg?

As a writing student, I am obviously always interesting in those who are talented writers. My friend's brother updated his facebook status to this and I couldn't stop rereading it because I found the visual of the whole scene to be so interested and thought he was so eloquent in how he wrote it:

"Today at Andiamo I watched as a pallid old woman smoked a cigarette. She sat at the bar alone, hunched over the edge in way that seemed to perfectly illustrate the weight of her years. Her hair was as white as the smoke that slowly permeated out past her quivering lips. But more then anything else she seemed fragile and unreal; as if she might dissipate into nothingness at any moment. Each puff spoke, "I've tried to quit but now it doesn't matter". At first I felt compelled to reach out to her in some way. But in the end I gave in. I decided she was right. It didn't matter."

Mod 3

I have finally had an epiphany in my mod 3 progress. I started out doing a weird page dedicated to puppies but then stumbled upon Justin Bieber and knew right away we were meant to be. I have obviously decided that he is my target. I'm sure it will be offensive to the millions of thirteen year old girls who are in love with him and visit Justin Bieber fan pages all day while I'm only kidding in my love for him. I'm indifferent to Justin, no love or hate, but I'll have to pretend I'm a huge fan for this project. I think it will be fun and I've already saved some great images of him for the background. I'm thinking of using the website "Face in a Hole" to make it look like I'm his girlfriend and posting that all over my webpage. Also, true to the spirit of his loyal fan base of middle schoolers, I'm thinking much of the site will be written in sticky caps, WhAt Do YoU tHiNk?!

reading wrap up 5

5) How did "Paper Prototyping," "Reading Design," and "Home Page Goals" help you in considering what you might do for your final course project? What do you feel will be the most important part of your planning proess for this final site idea? Explain.

1. Paper prototyping showed me that you don't always need expensive software to work on code. It can help to write it all out first and use post-its, this is helpful to me because I don't have any of these applications on my mac. Also, I have found that I'm a very visual learner so I think if I were to draw out how I want my site to end up looking it would help keep me organized.

2. Reading Design helped me realize the value of design and getting a feel for what works and what doesn't. This also helped me grasp the idea of how design can be used to communicate.

3. Home Page Goals made me realize how important home page's are and the value that can be gathered from working backwards, which ensures that your home page encompasses all that it promises. Home pages are meant to make a good impression and cater to repeat visitors.

reading wrap up 4

4) What do you see as the role of information architecture for web authors? How would you even define this term based either upon the tutorial or your own understanding?

1. I see information architecture as a way to first plan out what you want your website to accomplish and then act on those blueprints. Figuring out your goals and audience are crucial steps in creating an effective webpage because if it is not catered to these, it will fall by the wayside in being an ineffective webpage.

reading wrap up 3

3) Go to: http://validator.w3.org/ Type in the URL for MSU's webpage (http://www.msu.edu) and what results did you get? Now try the address for Jakob Nielsen's site (http://www.useit.com) and another website of your choosing. How do the results compare to one another? What explanations does the validator give you? How does this connect back to the issues that Zeldman has discussed?

1. When i typed in MSU's webpage it showed that ten errors were found.

2. When i entered Jakob Nielsen's page, there were 24 errors and ten warnings.

3. I used Facebook as the site of my choice and found there were 42 errors listed.

MSU's webpage clearly has the least amount of errors. Most of the errors on Facebook consisted of code being in the wrong place, like "does not allow link here, does not allow title here, does not allow meta here". Zeldman spoke about how standards can assist in situations just like this.

reading wrap up 2

2) What are five tips/points of interest you took away from the chapter on "The Trouble with Standards"?
1. Just because one is complying by web standards, that doesn't mean that graphics have to be be poor and suffer.
2. CCS only became popular with the 4.o version of web browers
3. Structurally meaningless markup makes the page less useful
4. For every software problem there's a category and for every category there's a leader (usually Adobe)
5. Flash is helpful because it lead to getting rid of annoying loading screens, but causes problems because it's inappropriate for content and commerce sites.

reading wrap up 1

1) What are five tips/points of interest you took away from the chapter on "Designing and Building with Standards"?

1. Having upfront information is more important than burying content beneath welcome banners and mission statements.
2. Complicated HTML can lead to websites having difficulties with screen-readers which can be a disadvantage for the visually impaired and lead to disability discrimination.
3. Make your site so that simple text links can be added and it can be easily updated instead of having to redesign graphics and HTML which would lead to high costs.
4. When code like HTML works, it is an advantage to the workers because they're able to concentrate on the writing of their website and not just wondering why it doesn't work and spending time and money trying to solve constant errors.
5. Standards based design is much more efficient, websites like alistapart.com promote the benefits of standards.

mod 3

I'm unsure what I want to do for Mod 3, I was thinking of doing one for an organization, school, or perhaps an animal so I can try to live up to the beautiful standards of "I love wolves". I'm not sure how to add things like music and videos so hopefully we learn that soon. Since the two websites I made are not very impressive so far, I'm sure it won't be hard for me to create something that isn't particularly appealing (unfortunately).

MOD 3

We started module 3 today. I am happy to be done with Mod 2 and starting something new; I think this module will be fun. Teagan and I chose to look at a "I love wolves" website and some strange Denmark page (we assumed it was from Denmark because it the link ended with .de but we still aren't sure). Both were hideous, to say the least. The wolves website was part of a bad website contest, but unfortunately, I think the Denmark website was real. Both were so cluttered and had an overload of flashing images. The worst aspect was probably the separate set of images that had its own scrollbar on the left side. The wolves website had this as well, but it was at the bottom and the box contained images. However, the box was so small that when scrolling through you could only see about an eighth of the image at a time. Overall.. not visually appealing. At all.

DONE

I'm thrilled to say I'm done with Mod II. Even though I had to completely log out of facebook (which I know is sad) I was able to crack down and finish my powerpoint. I was worried about it being too repetitive, so I'm going to read through it a few more times and make sure it looks like a good final product. I've put a lot of work into it and am officially sick of looking at code so I hope I don't find any errors. Hallelujah!

MOTIVATION!

The goal is to finish mod II tonight! I've been working on it all week and will be going up north this weekend so I look forward to being relieved. I only have a few more topics to cover in the slides but I have a feeling that I (so thoughtfully) left the most difficult ones for last. At first I really didn't know to interpret this project but now I realize the point is to make it understandable to someone who knows nothing about code.. much like myself. Let's see if I can deny the allure of facebook for a few hours and actually accomplish something.

module 2

I am having some difficulties with module II. I didn't think it would be this confusing when I first started but by now I've really confused myself. It's hard for me to grasp what the important aspects of HTML are, and how to compare them to other works of HTML source. When I look at the source view for both websites, I just see a bunch of random code that I don't know how to compare to the other or interpret at all. I decided to make a Powerpoint so I could utilize screenshots because I didn't know how they would look in a Word document, but I'm not even sure if the screenshots I'm using are valid or helpful. I want to finish Mod II by tonight so hopefully I am feeling motivated enough to make some serious headway. I'm looking forward to being done with it!

published!

I am officially published on the web! I created a website in CSE 101 last year but if I remember correctly, it was just a picture of Sparty. I am excited that I now know how to create a website with customized colors and content. Also, I don't think we used dreamweaver in CSE, I remember using WordPad to write code but I'm not sure how it actually got turned into a website. It will be interesting to see what other websites I create in this class and how they have grown from the simplicity of my first one. I found dreamweaver very easy to use which surprised me.

wednesday

I always seem to dread wednesdays when I have class from 11:30-6:20, and they seem even worse in the dreary wintertime. However, I'm happy to be in my home and I should probably learn to appreciate winter a little more considering I'm stuck in Michigan, at least for a few more years.

Teagan and I made our powerpoint during Tuesdays class concerning the main points in Zeldman's article. I am interested in seeing how these points will apply to the Viva PW website. Now I guess it's time to start my readings before tomorrow morning's class!

monday

I just started the readings for this week. I found them interesting, which seems to be unusual for me since most readings I have to do for class are painfully boring. Maybe these are better readings though since they are aimed at increasing internet ease and how to make things better for the reader. However, I have the say, the "A List Apart" article immediately lost credibility in my opinion once I saw the author spell "pouring" as "poring". This caused me to google it and see that you can spell it either way in the context, so maybe I was quick to judge, I've just never seen it spelt that way. Anyways, I continued to read the article and found that it had some good advice and pointers concerning how to make your website learner friendly.

thursday

Overall, I am happy with how our Powerpoint came together. I learned how to do screenshots last semester so had to remember how to do those for our presentation, and that is something I think will be useful to me often in the professional/college scene. We kind of rushed to get our finished product together since some of our group members didn't have working internet, but I am still happy with it. Presenting in front of a class makes me nervous but I hope I did alright. That is something that I will have to work on becoming more comfortable with. I also liked seeing everyone's presentations because they opened my eyes to websites beyond what I visit daily and will probably look at them now.

tuesday!

Our shortened class period made me realize how lost we all are without the internet. Granted, WRA 210 is a computer based class so there is not much we can do when the MSU server is down, but it is strange to realize how dependent I am on the internet. Even at my house on campus when our internet isn't working (which happens about 5 times a week and leads to us spending hours on the phone with Comcast) we all panic. I guess this is expected from a generation that grew up with the internet at our fingertips.

Our group was still able to complete most of what we needed to (with the exception of screenshots from the Viva Pw website) since we had our powerpoint saved on a group member's laptop. Once we add the pictures and divide up the slides, we will be ready to present on Thursday. Well, I need to start some homework and laundry and I suppose this is the ideal time because all of my roommates are out and about which is rare.

monday monday

I skimmed the many articles about creating effective powerpoint presentations. There were a few tips I was able to gather, including the importance of fonts that make one look professional. Also, I think I tend to want to put too much information on each slide and need to realize that bulleted lists are more effective in getting your point across without creating a cluttered presentation. I also liked in "Ten Tips for a Killer Presentation" how it encouraged presenters to be honest and not just tell the audience what they want to hear. I think these articles will help when we get into organizing our powerpoint, since on Thursday we focused more on getting most of the information inputed into the slide. Back to class!

goodbye weekend

I guess the weekend is over and it's time to start my schoolwork and I have been dreading it basically since Friday. Our group is working on our powerpoint and seems to be doing pretty well with it so I think it will come together nicely. I just finished reading "Have A Little Faith" by Mitch Albom and really enjoyed it. I wouldn't think that I'd be into such a religious book but I always have appreciated his style of writing and this was another one of his books that didn't let me down. I highly recommend it; I figure the beginning of the semester is really the only time that I have enough free time to read for fun.

progress

My group has just started our web analysis project and are planning to look at the Viva PW website. This will be interesting because my group is made up of a professional writing major (myself), a member who is half majoring in professional writing, and one who is majoring in journalism. That way we will have to perspective of many different affiliates of the professional writing program. I am looking forward to taking an in depth look at the website because I think it's a very interesting website considering it was created by students for students.

I am also working on the tech terms list and have found a lot of them to be similar and confusing.

Week 2 readings

Writing for a Web Audience: I found this information to be very interesting and true. I am always scanning articles like they suggested and found that I don't tend to pay much attention to graphics and am usually more concerned with interesting headlines. After reading that, I scrolled back up to see if I had even looked at the graphics on their website and realized I didn't notice them at all. I thought it was interesting how they created their website. Since it offers advice and studies about how to maintain the interest of web audiences, they would have to create their site in a way that keeps the viewer's interest so that they are not contradicting all that they write about. The website was easy to read, not distracting, and I didn't find myself skimming it much, which is surprising for me. I think the large font and attractive colors also helped because when websites are just white backgrounds with tiny black text, I give up much easier. I also thought it was important when they pointed out how you must build up trust with your users by being grammatically correct at all times. I completely agree with this because if I were to ever come across a professional website with misspellings, I would not be trusting of them at all. The inverted pyramid concept that they brought up was important and something that I learned in a journalism class in high school. I thought this was important because it ensures that websites and articles are catered to the busy reader.

Self Publishing is the New Blogging: This article was interesting to me because I studied the concept of self publishing a lot last semester in WRA 202. Self publishing is on the rise and doesn't require editors, distributing, marketing or much experience. Since this was written from a web design information blog, that has been around since 1995, it proves its point that anyone who chooses to publish to the web becomes an author. Also, the use of tags at the bottom of the article show how easy it is to access this post from other posts written about similar topics.

Understanding Your Web Audience: This article showed me how important it is to develop a target audience and write for them. These are the people that will use this information and spread it to their world. It is important to understand the demographics of your audience and what characteristics make up a group like that. By doing so, you can explore your audience's environment and cater your webpage to their browsers, experience level, and comfort with the web.

analyzing the ombudsman website

Target Audience: Students and faculty members at MSU who develop problems and grievances with the University.

Most Common Tasks: Resolves conflicts and disputes and helps faculty sort through legal terms and matters. Students can use the website to request a hearing with the Ombudsman and read questions and answers that others have posed

Tasks to Specific Users: Tells students how to file grievances and directs them to links such as The Academic Freedom Report and other MSU documents which outline student rights.
For everyone, there are university policies, swine flu facts and important dates.

User Navigation: It does not seem easy for users to navigate since one would have to know exactly what they were looking for and be familiar with the Ombudsman site for it to be useful.

Navigation Structure: This website is not easy to navigate. It is broken up into way too many pages and is stressful and cluttered. There are too many steps to go through and could be condensed into a much more visually appealing website that is user friendly.

Branding/Logo: The logo is simple, but effective. It is symbolic of communication and the Beaumont Tower shows MSU pride. When I was on other pages, I clicked on the logo expected it to take me back to the homepage but they were not linked.

Color Schemes: The color schemes are boring and the Comic Sans font is somewhat unprofessional. The green and white is standard for MSU websites but it is more of a grey and green which don't look very attractive together. The flashing “new” buttons are distracting.

Layout Presentation: The homepage is very cluttered considering there are buttons everywhere and they are not grouped in any particular order.

Summary: This website is not updated and would confuse me if I needed to use it. If it were updated, it could be very helpful to users. However, I see it as overwhelming and not something that I would want to ever use and would probably end up trying to call their office instead of using the website.

First Post

I haven't kept an online journal since they were popular when I was in middle school so it is strange to be writing in one again. It took me a little while to figure out but was not very difficult to set up. Blogs seem to be very user friendly and easy for those of all ages to utilize.

I read the article about the findings from the "A List Apart" and found that some of the terminology was familiar from the CSE 101 class that I took here at MSU. I recognized the phrase "advanced CCS". The age, gender and race of those who visit the website were not very surprising. When it came down to it, most of the information was pretty expected and reflected use by the demographic who have access to a computer often.

The Pew Internet Survey showed the experience that web users gain. I found it interesting to read that web use hasn't really increased much since 2002, considering the creations of popular websites like Facebook, Twitter, MySpace and Flickr. However, I was not surprised to learn how popular email is, as opposed to all the other things one could explore on the web. I also thought it was interesting that older people mainly use the web to look up health and medicinal issues. This is probably irritating to doctors because patients come in once they have already self-diagnosed themselves and want a specific medicine.