Evaluation
From
this task, I have learnt that it is important to get across the main
points of an investigation and fully explain them, instead of trying
to write about every aspect. This is important because it makes sure
that the points of a topic are strong and the writer can create a way
for the reader to understand this topic through the points made. I
have also learnt that research is vital in providing academic and
valid references to an idea, and how to find examples of reliable
research from different media sources.
I
found the task to be indicative of the relation between word and
image, helping me to convey researched thoughts in a format that felt
comfortable to me. Because I am a part-time writer, I find writing
easier to do than making videos, for example, as most of the time
words can display more understanding than an image can – especially
when it comes to finalising ideas from research of my topics. Though
images can reinforce points of interest (as shown in my reports)
crucial to understanding the subject matter. I believe that the
images I have used represent their respective subjects in this way.
I
enjoyed writing about my chosen topics as I found an aspect of each
that I was interested in writing about, through further research. For
example, in my “Gender representation in the media” report, I
talked about the objectification of women in video games (being an
art form that I frequent in) and through investigation I discovered
the works of Anita Sarkeesian and the feminist view of this topic. I
also enjoyed creating my own interpretations of what my chosen
subjects conveyed, making a visual connection to my understanding of
the research I undertook, as well as explaining the significance of
the interpretation to the reader.
Working
on my own allowed me to express my own ideas instead of the
amalgamation of suggestions from the various members in a group
scenario, which often cause disagreement and confusion. However, this
format made me unable to bounce ideas off of other people to achieve
a more accepted outcome for a project, as would be possible in a
team. Although with this task, I was able to structure my time and
make progress on the assessment when it suited me. It was also
something that I could do in private, as space is important for any
artist, and meant that I could relax when writing, alleviating the
stress of peers and helping me to focus on researching and writing
more fluently.
In
conclusion, this assessment has helped me to improve my writing
styles when explaining research, as well as how to find and describe
research examples. I found it to be an enjoyable medium of expression
of ideas and found a balance between word and image in my reports.
The ability to work alone allowed me to demonstrate individualist
ideas in my own time, as well as focusing on the writing and research
without external interference.
