Learning New Things is Exciting and Scary

The First Session

I think my big takeaway from the first class is that there is so much to learn in this course! I was reminded pretty quickly that the learning process can be uncomfortable - all that uncertainty, especially when learning how to navigate a bunch of new platforms. Then I remembered that learning takes place in the struggle; it is in the effort to figure out and master new skills that we build new neural pathways. I'm willing to embrace the discomfort, put in the practice, and collect valuable insights from the instructor and fellow students, because it will be worth it in the end.

The Great Drape-O

I don't know exactly what I was expecting from the first day of class, but it definitely wasn't a black and white film clip from the 1950s! I think one of the things that struck me as I watched it was how audience expectations have changed - and also stayed the same - over the years. There were some aspects of the performance that were over the top, such as the presentational style of performing for the camera, the mute participation of the models, the musical flourishes to draw focus and create drama. Perhaps at first, I didn't think this was very relevant to current media offerings. However, as each classmate spoke about their observations, I realized that we're all constantly consuming information that shapes our perspectives. I thought about how the basic assumptions of identity have changed in the decades since that television program aired. I learned more from listening to what others had to say about practicality, comfort, accessibility, and usability than I did from watching the clip. I'm sure that was the point.

Shoes vs Software

I think what's most interesting to me about this article is related to the cycles of how consumer interests drive the market which in turn defines consumer values. What we're willing to pay for survives, and what we are not, doesn't. We may complain about giant corporate interests, but until we are willing to shift our collective behaviors, nothing changes. Since the pandemic began, we have had the opportunity to reevaluate our approach to education, in particular, public schools. While I am excited to see how software can help us develop better learning experiences, I also worry about whether public education has missed the boat and what that might mean for students across the country and around the world.

Getting Started with Framer

At first glance, I am really impressed with the platform and how quickly and easily novices like me can get started and see instant results. Of course, it also seems to be a very powerful tool with all kinds of nuanced capabilities. I watched the tutorial videos provided - some of them more than once. I used the first one to make a few minor changes - it's not really a design per se, it's more of an experiment. It's amazing how quickly I can go from, "Oh, hey, that's a neat feature!" to, "Wait, what did they just do in that demo?" And then I remind myself that the only real way for me to learn how to use Framer is trial and lots and LOTS of error. I'm okay with that.