Discussion #2

    This week was a very interesting week that had many opportunities for learning. There were the readings, to which we had to apply to a certain website or design. We had the hands on design experience from the second part of the blog, and we had the interview with Margaret Kiernan. I learned a lot from this weeks because I actually had to apply what was learned into action. Throughout the process, I found out that I faced some difficulties in the different types of design, so it was an eye opener that I should start my MMP earlier on, so I can give it the time and effort that it needs to the final product that I would like it to be.
      The readings definitely resonated with me the most because it really had me thinking about all the designs that I see on a regular basis. For example, the Design Basics Index made me aware how something as simple as graphics found on google, can enhance your design and bring it more to life. Not only the introduction of the images, but also the different layouts of the images play an important role. Also, the talk about the use of white space. Although I do not have much design experience, it showed me that in the designs that I have done, I did not take white space into consideration. I always saw the lack of text or graphic in a certain spot, and worried that people would think my designs were too basic or lacking something. Now I know that something like that can be utilized.
     My blog reflection really was an eye opener about my own visual literacy. I faced challenges using the different design processes, such as not being able to express the design that I see in my head. However, the interview definitely reassured me. There was a part in the interview where Margaret Kiernan talked about how when she first started, the design process was on paper and pencil. When the graphic design field changed, she had to relearn everything to continue her career. This showed me that although I do not have much knowledge on the subject now, that is not my final destination. I signed up to this course because I wanted to learn the tools that I need to be a great teacher who utilizes design and now I am even more determined to do so. For example, one thing that I learned was found in the interview. She mentioned how, on something as simple as a powerpoint presentation, you control where the eyes go. So keeping that in mind, I now can make historical interactive lectures more interesting!