https://view.genial.ly/6535d569d9f621001190bc37/interactive-image-whats-in-my-bag
(Click on the yellow heart icons to hear the audio, Ctrl-left click on the blue link icons to find where to buy the items/read more about them)
Reflection
In a previous MET course, I learned about genially from some of my classmates, so I decided to use this tool for this week’s task. It actually took me less time than I thought to figure out how to use the website, and I am excited to use it more for this course and others in the future!
Task 1 was about describing the contents of my bag through a visual image with text explanation. I decided that for Task 7, I would use the same visual image as in Task 1 but in a more interactive way that would allow the reader to see and hear the explanation of my bag’s contents. Audio gave the image more “personality”, since the listener could hear my voice and tone when explaining the items. I also added links to where to buy some of the items, or to websites that explained the items in cultural contexts. By having the image as an interactive one that featured both sound and external links, I believe that the reader would be able to gain an understanding of why I have these items in my bag and/or be inclined to buy or search for similar items–consumerism at its finest! It is similar to how some influencers on social media sites will provide links to the items in their posts so that their followers will buy the same items or follow the brands featured/promoted in the posts.
I therefore believe that mode-changing can allow us to influence others/be influenced more than a visual image alone can. I myself have been caught in such traps while scrolling through my social media feeds, clicking on links and sometimes purchasing the items in the links. These actions result in more advertisements of similar items being pushed onto my feeds, and the vicious cycle continues!
I must say, your approach to Task 7 is quite innovative and impressive. Including audio to describe the image is a personalized touch that makes it more engaging and interactive. Providing links to purchase items or explore their cultural contexts is not only informative, but it also mirrors the practices of influencers, demonstrating a real-world connection. For instance, your idea of a reusable bag that can help sustain the environment is thought-provoking and made me realize that future archaeologists may find your notes insightful. Your approach fosters a deeper understanding of the contents of the bag and showcases consumerism in a unique way.
Hi Nisrine,
I was quite unsure of whether or not I “mode-bended” my original task enough after submitting it and viewing what others did, but your comment gave me some reassurance, so thank you! I am quite fascinated with the power that influencers have, hence why this task was inspired by their practices!