Group Project

 

Compared to most projects, we had an exceptionally good group charisma. All members of my group actively participated and were at all meetings outside of the classroom.  As far as the project itself, we decided to make a Visual Communications for Dummies book which is a 3-D as well as a 2-D graphic that describes the  numerous topics discussed in class.  Originally, we brainstormed ideas for the project but felt that the most efficient way to illustrate our project was through a book.  We then started brainstorming the most important topics that we covered and sectioned them off into chapters.  This allows the viewer to remember our project in sections.  As we began putting our project together, we realized that we covered a lot of topics which was necessary to get the main ideas across to our persona.  As far as establishing our persona, we had fun coming up with an ideal visual communications student. This allowed us to use our imaginations and forget about the curriculum aspect.  Looking back on this project, I feel we did a good job getting the main ideas across to our viewer.

Multivariate

For my multivariate chart I chose to use the random sample of 100 students to determine their preference of caffeine when studying for finals.  To add to my original bar graph, I utilized a line graph which shows the correlation of Mg of caffeine in each beverage. The addition of the line graph is confusing at first but with the addition of the legend the viewer is able to distinguish the difference. This multivariate distinguishes the differences in the amount of caffeine per energy drink.  To gather my information I utilized a survey I used for student government as well as the internet to find the amount of caffeine in each drink.  Once I completed the assignment I realized that the amount of fluid ounces was different but that it did not matter because each amount of caffeine is based on 1 serving size.  This graph shows multiple factual information but is easy for the viewer to understand.

The first story board I composed consisted of one of the four pictures.  I decided to pick a picture that interested me personally which was the children playing soccer.  I have a strong passion for sports and felt I could closely relate to the topic.  I placed the picture in the second frame of my story board to show the progression of age through time.  I named the story board Practice Makes Perfect because I showed the process of what it takes to be crowned FIFA World Champion.  This assignment was enjoyable and allowed me to think freely.

The second story board I made is similar to my first but on a different aspect of sports as a whole.  The name of this story is Every Team has a Coach which highlights the importance of a leader.  I chose the same picture from the previous story board with the addition of the black male with his hands crossed.  I portrayed the man as praying for his team to win the game.  Since coaches do not always win, the last picture I chose resembles their importance. Every team has a coach to keep their players head up and to make the best of every situation, regardless of the outcome.  For this assignment, I looked at the four pictures we were able to choose from and picked the ones I felt were closely related.  I do not feel any of the other pictures could have been compiled into a story board unless they are going from subject-to-subject.  For both of my story boards I chose Moment-to-Moment because I like to show progression over time.  I enjoyed this assignment because it made me feel like I was writing a childrens novel.

Simple Tables: What is your favorite form of caffeine while studying for finals?

This assignment was easy to gather information because I already had a survey of the junior classes preference when it comes to energy drinks while studying for finals.  I utilized survey monkey and then put my information in a chart on Excel.  According to Tufte, I feel he would choose the bar graph because it is easy to distinguish the differences between each option.  The bar graph uses minimal space and is simplicsitc compared to the other graphics. I feel if I made the colors different for each option it would help identify each option.  However, I feel the pie chart does not clarify whether Monster or Red Bull is more popular because the sections look identical to eachother.  I feel the line gragh is easy to understand but like the pie chart, it is hard to distinguish the difference between Monster and Red Bull.  This assignment was fun because it allows you to physically see the difference between each student's response.

How to Research Dual-Coding using Google Scolar

After completing the Amazon flow chart, I realized that Google is much more user friendly and involves less steps. I decided to research dual-coding and the first link available was by Allan Paivio.  I utilized the same shapes with the addition of the Document shape because it represents the information I researched.  Before I started the steps, I went through the process and wrote down every necessary action to find the correct document regarding dual-coding.  I also used red and orange to represent warm colors that show you are on track as well as blue (cold color) to resemble you need to take another course of action.  I felt this assignment was beneficial because I have never used Google scholar in my life; It appears to be very valuable.

How to Buy a Book on Amazon

 My first flow chart reduces the cognitive load by utilizing colors and a unique arrangement.  I used a combination of Preparation (Hexagon) and Terminator (oval) shapes to start the beginning and end of the process. I also drew the Process shape (square) to show the basic steps.  This was a fun exercise but I felt the aha moment after I completed the assignment.   After I finished coloring in my sketch, I realized it almost looked like a person either dancing or sitting in a chair. So....

...I made a mock advertisement that I feel could possibly be used in a magazine. 

Information Graphic

Prior to starting this assignment I was unsure whether to create my own graphic or edit one already made.  I decided to compose my own which consisted of the Inter-Class Council.  This is an organization of which is a big part of my life.  I decided to take a snapshot of the General Assembly meetings as each student is sitting in their actual seat.  The audience of my graphic appeals to incoming freshmen looking to get involved.  Looking at this graphic, the cognitive load is overwhelmed because the information is not organized in a manner that can be easily understood.  I then took the actual seating chart and composed an organizational hierarchy which reduced the cognitive load.  I felt that this was going to be my final graphic until I realized I could simplify the information even more.  I researched a strategic business unit and found that I could minimize the amount of lines that connected each position.  As I reflected on each graphic I was able to find ways to reduce the cognitive load.  This assignment taught me a lot about how information can be perceived pre-attentively as well as the importance of reflecting upon my own work.