Unit 17 – Multimedia – Digital Portfolio

Introduction to Multimedia

The multimedia unit covers the characteristics and uses of multimedia and how to design, and develop a multimedia products using a predetermined list of specifications. This unit teaches students how multimedia products are created, by looking closely at the development process for existing multimedia products, in the current market. In this unit we explored the purposes, uses and key features of multimedia products to acquire a greater level of understanding when developing our own multimedia products.

How Was This Unit Assessed?

This unit was an coursework assessed unit, through a series of four internally marked tasks, which demonstrate my knowledge and understanding of the multimedia product design, and development process. I was asked to submit four tasks to demonstrate my understanding of the subject, which were marked against the assessment criteria for the multimedia unit.

What I Have learnt

The unit was split in four tasks to cover the learning aims for the assessment criteria, which for this unit were learning aims A, B, C and D. There were different grading levels for each task, with pass, merit or distinction being the awarded grades for the completion of each of the criteria levels. To complete these tasks, we were given a scenario with a set list of criteria to develop a two multimedia products for a client.

In learning aim A, I demonstrated my knowledge by creating a PowerPoint presentation explaining the different types of multimedia products and the differences between two linear and interactive products, for the pass grade. Then reviewing how these products fit their purpose, and finally, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of the two products.

In learning aim B, I used the predetermined requirements for the given scenario to design two multimedia products for a multi-national charity called The Rainforest Conservation Association, and a a single-player maze game, for key stage 2 children. I identified the purpose and user requirements for both products as specified in the briefs. I then produced a proposed design solution for both products using a range of tools to develop the two prototypes, listing any assets used in my designs. Then I produced alternative designs for each product, and justified the design decisions as to which design fulfilled the client’s requirements for both products as stated in the brief.

In learning aim C, I created the the proposed products detailed plans from task 2 as a guide. I developed a linear presentation, and a interactive maze game product, both of which I then tested for functionality, and gathered feedback to improve usability and finally I refined both products based on the feedback I received.

In learning aim D, I reviewed the final products against the client’s requirements, and evaluated the extent to which the products were suitable for the client’s needs while considering the feedback, changes and any constraints during the development of both products.

Reflection of How I Worked

Designing and developing the linear product was easy, however it was extremely time consuming as we had to research the topic of the conservation of the Amazon Rainforest first before creating the design. Once this was accomplished however, it was only a matter of creating and finding the assets that I needed in order to create the slides for the presentation, which was straight-forward.

To create the second product, the interactive maze game was much more challenging as I had to figure out how to use the G-develop software which was used to create the interactive game. After a few weeks of trial and error, I managed to work out how to use the software and created the game with very little difficulty after the initial slow start.

What I need to further develop

I feel I need to work on my confidence with designing an interactive game product using multimedia as I found that because my confidence with games design was lacking, it made finishing this unit a lot harder because I was procrastinating an awful lot.