Final Project Presentation

Today Ali and I presented our final project to our classmates. Ali went first. Her presentation was absolutely awesome. She created a story that had multiple ending with an interactive aspect within the story line. Ali's presentation even had a moral in the end. Don't judge people by face value. You cant tell who has a developmental disability based on how the person looks.
I followed Ali's presentation knowing that she did an awesome job.
I asked my classmates if anyone wanted to play the game and I had one volunteer.
As she played the Tic Tac Toe game, I talked through the options that one has when they play.
Compared to Ali's, my project seemed a bit dry. But, my classmates responded positively to my interactive game. I'm proud of my project and I had an awesome experience in this class.
I'm excited that I learned so many useful ways to use technology from this class.

Final Project

I hope my classmates enjoy my final project.
Its my fun take on Tic Tac Toe.
Have a great summer
http://youtu.be/r5vvffxlVjQ

Problems and Progress 5

There was a vote taken in the class. Ali and I lost. I finished my project, but I cant present until Monday. Well, I worked hard this weekend and arranged my schedule for nothing. Then again, I now have one less assignment to do. Other than that, I am completely satisfied with my project.
In the beginning, I made a huge project for myself. There were too many slides. I then made the task easier by creating less slides and making it so that the user wins every time.
Overall, this project was fun. Very time consuming , but fun. If I had to do it all over again, I'd probably chose to do a different presentation. I know it definitely wouldn't be Tic tac toe.

Problems and Progress 4

It seems like just when I think I have an idea set, I want to change it. I thought the last idea that I had would be a great display of the use of interactive technology. What I have done is actually create one of the most time consuming projects in the history of mankind. I wish I could laugh at that statement, but I can't.

For my interactive project, I created a tic tac toe game. As fun as that may sound, I realized this weekend that I had to create over 100 slides for all the possible choices that can be made in the game. Had I known that, I wouldn't have taken on such a tedious task. 

The game itself is entertaining, but creating each and every possible selection takes much time. I've left a small sample of the game because I didn't have the time to put the, all together. But here is a rough draft of what I expect Wayne's Tic Tac Toe to look like. 

http://youtu.be/tXaHojMxnMU

Problems and Progress Part 3

My final project is coming along quite smoothly. After considering many ideas, and attempting a few test runs, I decided to focus on a game as my interactive project. Dr. Nelson shared a few ideas that would help me convert videos so that I can post them if I had an issue, but I chose to upload the final version on YouTube. This week while contemplating the details of my project, I didn't run into any major snags or issues. At most, the  challenging part of this project has been learning a new software for my audio and video. 

I wanted to challenge myself a bit. 

Windows movie maker seemed a bit elementary and didn't have the options that I wanted to create. Actually, WMM isn't an exciting software to use.

AVS video maker is a great program and its video effects are easy to use. Creating this video with AVS isn't cumbersome or overly time consuming. If all works out, I will have a solid final draft somewhere near complete this weekend. More than likely, I'll post it on my blog site for review until Dr. Nelson reviews it and makes suggestions before I present it on the 14th.

Problems and Progress Part 2

This week has been a rough week dealing with this project. Originally, I thought this would be a fairly simple project. I began creating the slide show and realized that the questions and answers for my game show were a bit extensive. I had to revamp the process on creating this game show on YouTube. At first, I created the questions and answer in a power point. Then I thought I would post it on YouTube where I could attach the links from the YouTube options so that the user can interact with the PowerPoint that I created. Unfortunaltely, I had trouble uploading the powerpoint onto youtube because it wasnt a flash player. In other words, youtube needs a video and I couldnt upload the powerpoint. I found a link that will help me create a video on youtube from youtube http://youtu.be/5S2gWaySCEA.
I plan to take time in studying the methods so that I can create my final project without having issues loading it on YouTube and using it as an interface.
In today's workshop , my plan is to use this YouTube link as a resource to create a better project than I first anticipated. I have a few different programs to play with that may help make my interface attractive, but the main idea here is to make the project simple enough to understand and easy to navigate through.

Problems and Progress

So far this project seems to be much easier than expected. At this point, I am creating a script for the game show. The script is pivotal to the succinctness of this project. Because this project will have multiple paths, I need a clear path to each video so that my user isn't confused or taken to the wrong video because I didn't attach the correct choices to the responses that the user chose. Linking the videos isn't a problem because YouTube gives great instructions on how to attach a video into another video.
With that said, my progress is steady. I expect to have completed my script by this weekend. From there, I need to obtain the questions and correct answers to the questions for the project.
I may include some background music to enhance the mood of the experience. I find this project to be just as fun as the last. If I run into any obstacles, I will be sure to jot them down so we can discuss how to resolve the issue.

Project #2

B12 Feature and Final Project

The feature that interests me most is the interactive portion that allows the reader to interact with the literature. When I consider this feature being available, I think of how far this genre gone in making literature fun and highly interactive. As a teacher, I see many ways of using this to help students become comfortable with technology and writing. This type literature is not static, it seems to live and respond to its user.
This interaction is beneficial because now students can feel like they are truly having part in the experience of their readings and literature. This should make for much more interesting dialogs about the readings and the readers experience.
My final project is still in its beginning stages. As I am comprehending the details of the assignment, I am considering what message I want to relay to my classmates. Since I am a teacher by trade, I will probably consider creating a project for a lesson that will reach my students as well as any interested readers. I do know this, I plan to make it an experience more than just a project for submission.

The Problem with E-Lit

       I don't think that E-Lit should not become a part of classroom literature for many reasons. Of the many reasons, the most prevalent is although E-literature is a for a literature, there are many elements of E-Lit that vary from traditional print literature that make a difference. For example, E-Lit sometimes have sound or visual aspects that aren't found in print. Sound and visual elements make for a totally different experience in literature. Furthermore, it is in my opinion that since the rise of popular television shows, people have lost the desire to read simply for entertainment purposes. In other words, reality TV has replaced the desire to and need to read for entertainment.
Also, the argument that says young creative writers to try this kind of writing must see it has broader audience does not lend necessity to this genre of literature. In order for students and people to see E-Lit for its aesthetic value, these people must find its usefulness. When that happens, then it can be introduced to schools as a separate genre that may enhance the reading experience. From there, the opportunity for E-Lit to prosper can present itself.

B11 Feedback

While in groups, we discussed where we were in our projects and where each student of the group felt they were in their project. Each of us agreed that our projects are in its beginning stages, but we found that our ideas are culminating into great prospective projects to share with our peers. For example, one student in my group shared his idea of a scrabble board video with a twist. Not to share too many details about his project, but we were definitely excited to see his plans unfold in this project.
I shared the idea that I had for my project with my peers. Then, I shared the videos that I currently have and the format that I plan to create for this project. My peers seem excited about my project and found that the only issue that I may have is making sure that I can keep my projects authenticity.
In other words, I need to make certain that I don't copy too much from where the idea originated. I should make the project my own, maybe having a twist somewhere in the video.
I see their point clearly from my discussion with them.
Anytime you create a video, its important that the project that one creates has its own appeal. Otherwise, I may find others comparing my project to another that may have been better than my project.
I plan to make changes so that I run into that problem. I have a great musical theme and I believe that my project is different and exciting.
The feedback from my peers was extremely encouraging and helpful. I'm taking their advice so that I can create a better product for this upcoming assignment.

B10 Map Pt2

After many hours of thought and careful consideration towards this project I finally chose how I want to create my project.
I chose to create a workout video.. At the same time I want to create an element of humor in the video. The theme of project 2 is a motivational workout commercial. I have a software called movie maker and I plan to upload it as a youtube video.
I have portions of different workout that I have done over the last few years to use for this project. Those videos in combination with the theme music from rocky should make for a great commercial for having a better performing body.
But then again, Im considering creating this project as a commercial for future bouts that I may have in the sport of mma.
My personal trainer created a video using a compilation of training videos and recreational videos that were pieced together to create one video that spoke about a title fight that I was scheduled to have in 2011.
I have the music. Either the Rocky theme and or maybe some clips from some of the rocky movies. But, i have to see if there are copyright issues with using clips from a big screen movie.
Altogether, my video will illustrate the passion that I have for working out and the sport that is close to my heart. I hope to display that passion in this second project.

B9 Brain storning Map

The project that I have in mind for my 2nd project hasn't quite crystallized just yet but, at the same time, I have an idea of the focus of this project. Initially, my intentions were to create a project that is just informative on health. My focus for this project is to share my passions about health to those who happen to experience my project. At the same time,I want my project to have an element of humor.
So, I have surmised an idea that incorporates 2 of my top 3 life passions while expressing my creative humor. My life passions are health, and education and evangelism. Well, evangelism isn't needed in this project, but I plan to incorporate health and education throughout this project.
The map of this project will include video interview of children, who are in my family. I plan to ask them questions about dental health. I expect that they will answer in the most honest manner that they know. I will then ask them about certain teachings of how to keep their teeth healthy. I expect that this video will have a creative spin on dental health from the lens of the child. Some of which have no teeth.
The music that I plan to use for this project will be used as an element of entertainment that adds to the project but doesn't overwhelm or confuse the audience.

B8 Thinking about Structures

Thus far we have began to learn how to embed a video code into a site. This sets the foundation for creating a thumbnail story for our next project is one that we intend to create a project that has video as its main element.
This will be different from our last project in many ways. Not only must video be implemented but music as well. And furthermore, there must be a navigation tool for this project as well. As i consider this project, I see that the challenge lies in connecting the visual elements with the musical aspect of the thumbnail.
I haven't quite pinned down the idea that I have for this project , but I am thinking of a variety of possibilities that can make this project stand out.

B7 My Project

I must say that creating my project was an exceptional experience. The inspiration of my project is that I wanted to create a hyperlink project that was easy to navigate on screen as well as ensure that the site was student friendly. I am a teacher by trade so my inital thoughts were to create something student friendly that will attract student intrest. I truly believe projects similar to what we have created, will laspse the convention methods of today. Students today are very familiar with computers and they need stimulation as they desire to learn.
Hypertext and hyperlinks give students an opportunity to navigate and explore their work. The usage of hyper link and hypertext allows students to interact and feel as if they own their work. Not to mention, students will feel that learning is an experience and not just a chore to pass their time.
My project doesnt require many instructions. My project is for those who are novice with hypertext and hyperlinks. When engaging with my project , one will notice that it very linear and clear. That is how I can ensure my student wont get lost or misunderstand the text or instructions.
I do hope those that come to my students web page enjoy the experience. Its filled with links to great images of students who have hand drawn their ideas of an idiom of their choice.
Enjoy the experience in my project.

https://sites.google.com/site/londonbridgesletter/

JP Experiences

For this first project, I want the experience to be simple and fun. Initially, I wanted to do a project that was much more complex than what was requested by my instructor. I had difficultly attempting to piece ideas together for what I thought was requested of me with that project. With this project, I have an opportunity to illustrate my creative ability while at the same time expressing one of my many passions.
I am hopeful that my project gives the reader or audience a feeling of fun and connectedness. My project attempts to have students, teachers and peers discuss idioms. I hope the experience is fun for the students.
I want students to have something to discuss with regards to the idioms itself and the pictures that correlate to the idiom itself. After reading my story, I want the reader or the audeince to see the context of how idioms are used. Furthermore, I believe the story hat I created is one that touches students, teacher and parents as well.
The experience that I am attempting to convey should fuse a parent child relationship. I want parents to examine this work and reply that they want their child to be inspired to do better.
I want any student who reads this story to be inspired by the child's desire to do better no matter what the cost.
Since this project is a fairly simple one, I created a simple story with a simple backdrop. One that young people and seasoned people can connect to.
After having this project reviewed by my peers, I will know if my goal was met or if I should change some parts of my project.
All in all, the experience should be one for all readers to enjoy.

B6:BrainStorming

Sometimes you see pictures, but the words just never quite connect with the pictures. I've talked to some friends about this project. It seems like everyone I talk to has different ideas on how to create the project or how I can reach people. At the same time, even though I enjoy hearing great ideas, none of the ideas that has been presented to me fit with the picture I have in my mind.
For example, I see various background changing; like the background of a computer screen. After that idea, things get foggy. I envision a voice saying some texts from the Bible, but im not certain what texts or what language. But , then again, why not do both languages. The original Hebrew and English translation may suffice.
I've been deciding if I want the soft music effect or if I want silence until the voice is heard.
The music effect will give a serene calming effect, but the silence may touch the person just a bit more. For instance, I picture peaceful music playing then a voice stating a verse such as "In the Beginning" and that flashes across the screen. Then, the person see's an image comparable to the verse.
I want that to be the theme of my project. I want it to be a spin of the creation week in the Bible.
We've all seen what Hollywood does with movies that misrepresent stories of the Bible. I'd like to create a more accurate version of the creation story. At the same time, I want the original language to help validate my creative piece. Hope it all works out.
Then again, as long as I stay focus on the task, it should come out exactly the way I plan. I love it when a plan comes together.
I guess brainstorming isn't that bad after all.

B5:Themetic Cocepts

The difficult part of putting an idea into motion is figuring out how to place the ideas that I have in my hand onto the screen in front of me. I have an idea of the theme that I am attempting to produce,but the issue is that I want the audience to be attracted to my project.

On first thought, it seems simple. I think that most people like to see images moving and something about religion or faith interests people. However, at the same time, our society has been fed ideas about religion and faith so now more than ever, people don't seem to be interested as they were before. 

Thats why in my project, I plan to make it stand out. The issue lies in the how to.

Should I make it very visual and leave out the interactive part. Should I focus on giving the audience an experience that they aren't accustomed to in the story.

There seems to be so many intangibles in electronic literature that make this project a real challenge. At the same time, having a project based on Electronic Literature does give an opportunity that allows the reader to experience the literature much more than traditional print.

I'm excited and apprehensive about my project. I know it will be good, but I really want it to touch the people that read and experience it. I guess, just like writing, creating an E-story is an personal experience. It exposes ones inner thoughts while allowing others to critic, somewhat like being in a museum. Either way, I intend for my project to be more like a display of art than a project. I hope to accomplish this with the tools that I have and the knowledge that I learn while creating this piece.

B4: Collecting Images

the image http://tinsky.hubpages.com/hub/The-Summer-Storm
Here is a short sample of the images I plan to use in for my project. The theme that I am attempting to illustrate is one that carries a religious connotation. I plan to implement a series of changing backgrounds that include raindrops, doves and any other symbols of peace that deal with nature.
My poem will have moving images or at least thats what I'd like to have, so that the reader feels connected to the poem.
Doves and raindrops are simply the intial images that have come to mind.
More than likely, I will have images that include day and night and maybe even do a spin off of the 7 day creation.
Actually, that may be a better idea. I'll do a spin off of the 7 day creation scene.
The background changes as the verses appear on the screen. This should be a great experience and an amazing project.

JP3

I've pondered what type of story to write about for days now. Its a tough choice having so many options available using E-literature. I know that I want my story to be unique and interactive. At the same time, I want it to have an element that grabs the reader. I don't intend to write a story where the reader can not find a connection.

So, with that said, I have been considering a topic that transcends gender and race. I want my story to have a motivational and possibly a spiritual element to it. At the end of the story, I want the reader to feel impressed to share that story with someone they care about. That , for me, is the motivation for creating my story.

I ask myself many times, do I intend to use hypertext for my story. I cant commit to that idea just yet. I do know that there is room for hypertext in my story, but at this time, I am not certain where it fits.

So, for now, I will focus on creating the type of story where I can motivate people and inspire people. That idea is my central theme. I am very excited and hopeful that my first E-Lit story works as I plan. Its simple yet complicated.

Ideas to present

Interacting with electronic literature has opened my mind to a mired of  questions and ideas about Electronic Literature. Most of the stories that I read were fun and insanely interactive, but of those that I read, there are 3 that I would consider for a presentation.

My favorite of the stories is Cruising by Ingrid Ankerson and Megan Sapnar. I enjoyed the content, music and the story itself. I must say, I was captvated by the use of music and how I could control the speed of the words that ran by the screen. That was my favorite story of the three that Ive chosen.

Next, Stir Fry text was pretty interesting. What I enjoyed most about Stir Fry Text is the random
 change in the story. It felt as if I was reading someone's journal as they were writing it. It seemed as if the person writing the journal was scratching out and rewriting their ideas moment by moment. I enjoyed the experience feeling that a persons thoughts can changed by the minute while reading that story.

Lastly, another story that I would present on is The Possession of Christian Shaw. I didn't enjoy the interaction in this piece, but my curiosity was peaked by the darkness of the children in the story and the music of the story. This story made me feel as though something may jump through the screen at any moment.  My body was quite tense reading while interacting with the story.

I would present on The Possession of Christina Shaw, not because I enjoyed it so much, but because of the affect that it had on me.

Layers of Self

I've been considering this outline titled, "layers of self". I am not quite sure how I intend to reveal a portion of myself in a story, not do I have a clue as to which portion of myself that I would like to share in a story. I began constructing an outline of a story that suddenly popped in my head. But then, after careful thought and consideration, I want to write about something more personal.
Something that speaks closer to who I am, what I represent and what I stand for. The question is, how do i relay that portion of myself into a electronic story.
I'm currently fielding ideas as I write. I'm hopeful to devise a story that will not only strike my reader with interest, but also give a snapshot into a layer of my life.

Twelve Blue

The strategies that I to read the story Twelve Blue worked , but they didn't seem to help me comprehend the stories I read in Twelve Blue. One of the strategies that I used was that I clicked only on the left bar hoping to get a consistent story. After I tried that, I noticed that the story  I was reading didn't seem to have a focus. I consistently clicked in the same area, avoiding hyperlinks simply because I didn't want to navigate too far from an original story.
With regards to the strategies, they definitely worked, but the strategies don't seem to help in making the stories that I read any clearer. I enjoyed reading the stories for their aesthetic qualities, but I had a difficult time relating to a story that just didn't seem to have a climax or ending.

JP2

The type of literature that appeals most to me is informative literature. The ultimate goal when I write is to share my thoughts and opinons on topics that are significant to motivating and educating people.
Todays society has embarced ignorance and shunned the idea of being educated. Too many of our young people have abandoned literacy and picked up complacency as a substitution. I'm hopeful that the literature I write touches the hearts of those who need to be influenced.

JP1

Before this class, I had never considered using  multimedia  such as blogs to convey thoughts, ideas, or my feelings. The only medium that I had used before using this blog is Facebook and Myspace. Now that I am becoming familiar with the purpose and usefulness of blogs, I can see myself using blogs and such mediums for many different purposes.
My main purpose for Multimedia text would probably be to inform my readers of my opinions on topics that I feel are important to furthering or expanding one's life. I enjoying reading and studying my faith as well as sharing my findings with others. My use for multimedia texts would be multifaceted. I would want to inform, educate and debate topics and information so that my readers are challenged to become better persons of the society that they live in.

There's a first time for everthing.