Multimedia and Web Projects
Multimedia presentation technology has changed dramatically since 1983, when this picture of me adjusting a slide projector lens on location in Hawaii was taken. Before PowerPoint, slides were optical, with individual 35mm film transparencies mounted in holders, rather than digital files. Staging multimedia shows then required numerous support personnel to operate the expensive optical projection equipment. Today's technology allows for multimedia delivery of much more than slide shows, as my examples of educational Web pages, instructional videos, and games and simulations show.
Educational Multimedia Web Pages
Effective Microphone Techniques for Speakers
This is my first effort at educational Web-based multimedia design. Created in summer 2004, this web site uses multimedia in several forms, including embedded audio files, an embedded pdf file, embedded graphics, and many illustrative photos.
At the time I made this, I was new to web design and graphic creation. Today I would consider using a QuickTime movie to show how to adjust a microphone stand. I think this is a good example of an instructional web site which effectively uses multimedia to deliver content to a specific audience. I would not change any of the content, as all of the topics covered are important things for presenters to know.
Electronic Performance Support Systems (EPSS)
In spring 2005, while in EDTEC 561: Advanced Web-based Multimedia Development, I wrote this article for the Encyclopedia of Educational Technology (EET). The most difficult part of this was not writing the text, but rather creating the graphics. I created at least ten different versions of the “black box vs. glass box” graphic before the final version was approved by my beta testers. I would not change anything in this article.
Instructional Videos
Analog Recorder Care (QuickTime movie)
I wrote, produced, served as talent, and edited this instructional video for EDTEC 561: Advanced Web-based Multimedia Development in spring 2005. Two of my classmates worked on this project, one operated the camera, and the other monitored audio. I am very pleased with the instructional content, editing, and the script that I wrote. However, I should have looked at the camera more, and also been more relaxed. All in all, considering that I had never been on screen talent, I am quite pleased with the results. The writing and scripting for this video were the easiest parts for me, as I am a SME with respect to analog tape recorders, and I have a BA degree in Radio and Television.
AES Audio Console Presentation (QuickTime movie)
I was the concept creator, major organizer, and host for the “When Vinyl Ruled” Historical Exhibit at the 109th Convention of the Audio Engineering Society, in Los Angeles during September 2000. My concept was to recreate a working 1960 recording studio control room, featuring lectures, vintage equipment demonstrations, and playbacks of classic recordings. This 3 day educational exhibit featured many displays that I created. I designed the "How to build a console" display which I am shown explaining in this brief “When Vinyl Ruled” video clip to help visitors visualize the abstract concept of audio console design circa 1960.
Games and Simulations
Cases & Queries (Educational board game)
Fall 2005 found me in EDTEC 670: Exploratory Learning Through Simulation and Games, working on a three person team to develop an instructional board game. I came up with the concept, wrote the rules and all the text shown on the web page, and created the game board. My colleagues created all of the numerous cards and text associated with the cards.
This specialized game is aimed at EDTEC students who desire to practice for the EDTEC Departmental Comprehensive Exam (Comps). I believe this game serves its intended purpose quite well. Allowing students to review collaboratively should reduce test anxiety and also highlight any areas that require additional study. If anything, I would improve the resolution quality of some of the graphic images.
Rhythm of Life Drum Circle (Learning simulation)
Working with the same three person team as for the Cases and Queries e-game, the final project for EDTEC 670 in 2005 had us developing a learning simulation within the Second Life virtual reality online environment. For this project as before, I came up with the concept, and wrote all the text shown on the web page, while my colleagues created all of the numerous cards and text associated with the cards.