This week's lessons included an introduction to Animoto, another tool that can be used to create digital stories. I am excited to work with this application because I think it could add a lot to the work I do, especially as I work toward digitizing parts of the company training process.
Presentation Zen addressed Design Principles and Techniques, which I found to be extremely valuable. I like the way the book shows examples of original slides alongside final products with recommendations of how to apply the principles introduced. While I think I've used some of the principles throughout my presentations, I realize I have applied them inconsistently and without a strong understanding of how to fine tune my final products. I come from the old school presentation framework of bulleted lists, which I have known for sometime haven't been as effective as I would like; but I wasn't sure what I could do to change things up and still provide the information. I look forward to learning how to get away from those bullet points and provide a thought provoking "sticky" presentation that is as enjoyable as it is informational.
Overall, I enjoy the content of what we are learning--I am extremely overwhelmed by the amount of work and the amount of time I am having to spend getting it done. I know it is time well spent, but for the first time in my master's program I feel like I might not be able to keep up. Anyone else out there finding themselves in the same boat? I will continue to hang in there...
Sue, I too enjoy the pictures in the Zen book. It shows me that I'm doing an ok job with my slides, however, it gives me more ideas on how I can improve. I really like the idea of adding contrast to the text and the background. Especially giving contrast to just one word. A lot of what this author has touched on are things that I've thought in the past and have tried to utilize, however, I think this book makes me add even more of these elements to my presentations.
ReplyDeleteI hear you with the work load in this class. It is a lot, but stick in there, you will get through. I list everything I need to do on paper with a pen and I feel that checking each assignment off as I get done with it gives me more motivation and I am able to get through the assignments quicker but still with high quality. This week it was especially difficult for me because I went with my brother to Boston. I was able to get some work done on the airplane the way there and back (wifi on plane) but I didn't get nearly as much as I usually do. Typically I set up a long time at my local library, usually on Saturday, to do my work. I find this a great way to be very productive and I have less chances to get distracted than if I do my work at home.