As I move forward creating my prototype, I feel good about my themes, goals, and intended format, as well as the research I have managed to gather up to this point. I am less sure about properly using Omeka and sorting through and using my research, however.
Themes and Plans
To start with something positive, I feel like I have a good grasp on the themes and goals of my project. I have been shaping it over the past few weeks in blog posts and drafts of my proposal and design document, and I think now I have a clear image of my project and its intentions. I am feeling excited about my project now not just because I like the topic, but because I see where it is going. I know I need to go back to my proposal and flesh it out more based on my planning, so this will be a next step for me.
Formatting and Omeka
In planning, I have gotten a good idea of what I want my format to look like. I think my wireframes turned out really well. I am a bit concerned about translating this into Omeka. In working on my prototype, I have not been totally sure how to organize and use all of the Omka features I need. Talking to Professor Leon about it has given me a better idea of what features are good for the micro and macro levels of my project, but I am still trying to figure out how to use everything. For example, I have been adding items to my project, but I am not totally sure how to display these items in a given exhibit. I am also trying to figure out how to create features other than simple pages with text and images where one leads to the next. I need to be able to create a kind of home page with links to different pages, which has been a little challenging to figure out. I think formatting using Omeka is one of my two main concerns at the moment.
Research
Research is another element I am somewhat concerned about. I have a lot of raw research materials now, but I still have a lot to refine into usable content. I have also found much more information on some historical figures than others, which may call for more work than I have time for.
I had thought, for the prototype, I would have to create more historical figure profiles than is necessary, as I learned in a meeting with Professor Leon, which was overwhelming me. Now that I have a better idea of what the prototype needs, I am less worried. However, I do still feel that research is an area I need to work on and smooth out at this point.
Moving Forward
Moving forward, I am going to go through my research and choose a historical figure who I think I have a good amount of reliable sources for. Then, I will take another stab at my prototype using this person as an example. I will continue researching how to use Omeka for what I need in the process. I have been feeling a bit overwhelmed by my project, but I think now I have a good grasp of what direction to go in.
