The web site creation was a great experience. It not only required us to apply the design principles but also the technology in education knowledge we have acquired over the past 18 months. The design principles of contrast, repetition, alignment, and proximity (C.R.A.P.) were a new way of looking at how graphics make an impact on my learning. By analyzing graphical information, I learned it was conveying more information than just a pleasing composition similar to the way an author uses word to impart a deeper meaning to a story (Hernandez, 2009). I now look at advertisements, billboards, and other graphics in a different light; looking for the underlying message.
The name of our website, Revolutionizing Your School, set the tone and direction of the website. A brand was needed to convey this idea and what was going to be shared on the site (Alcantara, n. d.). Using C.R.A.P. we created the logo indicating the move from the traditional school to one that is futuristic. The logo colors determined our color palette for the website. One item that seemed to be consistent in the design was the use of videos and digital graphics to support or reinforce the information being delivered. As we completed our chosen page, the others in the group would review and make suggestions for improvement. I found this to be a beneficial method to learn how to apply the concepts. It permitted other voices to be heard and resulted in a site that demonstrates unity and organization.
I have created a professional website that is used to share technology applications and research with the faculty on my campus. I have received good response to the content being presented; however, with the understanding of the design principles, I need to take time to revamp some aspects of the website to create a more consistent design. I wonder what would happen if I were to redesign how I present information in training through the use of C.R.A.P. and more digital imagery? Will the participants be more engaged and retain more of the knowledge?
To view our site: Revolutionizing Your School
Websites in the PK-12 Classroom
Throughout our coursework for Educational Technology Leadership, we have analyzed the use of technology in the classroom. One of the most flexible technologies is a good website. Websites in the PK-12 classroom can be used in multiples ways. Teachers use their websites to communication with parents and students about their classroom, assignments, projects and other information. For instructional purposes, students are able to use websites to delve deeper into concepts being taught. For elementary schools, interactive websites help support learning of basic skills. As students mature, they can create websites with information to present their knowledge or to help teach others. Collaboration is another way sites can be used in the classroom. Being able to share thoughts and ideas with others that either agree or disagree help students learn how to express themselves. These are just a few of the ways I have and can use websites in PK-12 classrooms.
Alcantara, L. (n.d.) The art of self-branding: Part 1. Lealea Design. Retrieved February 6, 2012 from http://www.lealea.net/blog/comments/the-art-of-self-branding-part-one/
Hernandez, M. (2009). Basic Design Principles. Retrieved on February 3, 2012 from http://www.scribd.com/doc/23940707/Contrast-Repetition-Alignment-Proximity
Johnson, B. (2012, January 26). College readiness: Learning collaboratively. Edutopia. Retrieved on February 17, 2012 from http://www.edutopia.org/blog/college-readiness-collaborative-learning-ben-johnson
