The majority of the work for my multimedia package is now complete. I have finished my four text modules as well as my google map, graphic, and slideshow. Now I must write my introduction and spice up the homepage by playing around with the design and appearance. There is no better time than now to reflect on the work I’ve done this semester as the finish line approaches.

The first lesson I learned was one that Professor Lieb said that some of us would learn throughout the course of the semester. He warned the class to think very carefully about the topic we chose for the multimedia project. My idea of gathering stories from families that have struggled with autism seemed like a great idea initially. As the semester progressed, however, it became harder and harder to obtain many of the resources I assumed would come easy. Parents were very protective of what they shared and discussed and physicians could not speak directly about particular cases. I feel that I made the best of the situation but if I could turn the clock back to September I would choose another topic. I also learned that news writing is quite different from feature writing.

I enjoyed all aspects of the class including the blog posts, the critique, and the multimedia package itself. I didn’t have much experience working on the Web coming into the class. I learned more than I anticipated. I never viewed myself as someone who is sharp with technology but I can now say I know more about working with the Web than most people I know – which is certainly valuable considering the future of news. Future classes should have a great time with this course. I would not change a thing.