Reflection Journal: Project 7 Flash Portfolio

Project 7 was about creating Flash Portfolio. I used Adobe Flash to complete this project. In order to make Flash Portfolio, I included all the labs I made in Flash. Since the target audience for this project was students who want to know about the Web Design Academy, I tried to apply different skills I have obtained in this academy to my work. First, I drew a wireframe to organize my idea for this project. After creating the wireframe, I made buttons and background and put the video with cue points into the Flash document for this project. In addition to the cue points in the previous lab (Lab 27), I added more cue points which include the Flash logo, a picture of html tags and the thumbnail images of the video game (Project 6) and interactive story (Project 5).  I then made 4 different scenes for each page and added frames. After making the four pages, I used action script to insert the swf files from the labs and projects. I tested the swf file for this project to make sure every element in my 

portfolio is working properly and has no mistakes in action script.

I learned how to include swf file within a Flash document by completing this lab. I also learned how to use cue points as well as action script to create an interactive content. Compared to September, I somewhat improve since I have obtained different types of skills and techniques, and used them to create unique and interactive websites. This project is relevant to Web Design because the designers might be required put all the work in one file just as I did for this project. In the future, I can use the techniques for this project when I need to generate a work or website that consists of swf files.

Reflection Journal: Lab 27

Lab 27 was about using cue points in the video to make it interactive. I used Adobe Flash to complete
this lab. First, I imported the video to the stage of the Flash document for this lab and logos of Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Dreamweaver to the library. Next, I placed them onto the stage and gave instance name for each objects. After this, I tried to insert cue points by listening to my video and click on the plus sign in the properties panel. I then used code snippets, "On Cue Point Event", to make the cue points work. By using this code snippet, the Photoshop logo appears when I talk about Adobe Photoshop and the Dreamweaver logo appears as I discuss Adobe Dreamweaver. After completing all these steps, I exported this lab to a swf file and put it into the html document for this lab.

I learned how to create cue points and inserted them to my video by using the code snippet, "On Cue Point Event". I can apply the skills I obtained from this lab in the future when I need use cue points to make my video interactive.

Reflection Journal: Lab 26

Lab 26 was just about inserting video into a html document. I used Adobe Dreamweaver and Adobe Flash to complete the lab. First, I film the video by using my cellphone. Then I place the video and import it to the Flash document for this lab. After importing the video, I added background and exported the swf file in order to put it into the html document for this lab. By completing this lab, I learned that video will not work, if it is not in the same folder with the html document and Flash document. I can use the techniques I obtained in this lab in the future when I need to place a video by using Adobe Flash and Adobe Dreamweaver.

Reflection Journal: Project 6

Project 6 was about creating a Flash video game with the skills and techniques that I had obtained from Lab 24 and Lab 25. I used Adobe Photoshop to make some objects and Adobe Flash for the codes for the game. First, I used Photoshop to decorate the scanned images of treasure chest. Then, I imported them to the library in the Flash document for this project. Before I started coding, I created some movie clip and button symbols. The symbols are the character of the game, the treasure chest, the background, bouncing balls and a gray rectangle. The character is controlled by the keyboard arrows and the bouncing balls and a gray rectangle are the obstacles in the game. In my game, the character must go to the room with treasures. If he hits the obstacle, the user has to start all over. After creating all the symbols, I used action script to make the character and obstacles move. After I finished coding, I played my game to make sure all the things in the game work properly.

Compared to the previous project (the Interactive Story), this project was a lot harder because it took two weeks for me to complete this project. However, I learned that there are various kinds of action script are needed to make one video game. I also learned the importance of action script in a Flash game because without action script, the game will not function the way I wanted it to. In the future, I can use the skills that have obtained from this project when I need to create a video game in Adobe Flash by using action script.

Reflection Journal: Lab 25

Lab 25 was about converting the previous lab (Lab 24) into a simple game. In addition to what I did in the previous lab, I put obstacles. By adding obstacles, the user must avoid those obstacles in order to win the game. I then inserted action script so that the users can move the square and eventually win or lose the game. In this step, I had to get the exact value of "x" and "y" for obstacles. After doing all these procedures, I tested the lab and put it into the html document.

I learned that a simple game is not made easily since I had spent almost a week to finish this lab. I also learned the significance of action script in this lab because if the exact value of the position of the obstacles are not given, the game will not function properly. In the future, I can apply the skills from this lab to create a simple Flash game with obstacles.

 

Reflection Journal: Lab 24

Lab 24 was about making buttons that work together with the movie clip. I used Adobe Flash to complete this lab. First I drew a square and triangle using the shape tools. Then I used two different types of action scripts, "click to position" and "move with keyboard arrows". With these action scripts, the users can move the square by clicking the buttons or pressing the keyboard arrows. Finally, I exported the SWF file of this lab and put it into the html document for this lab.

I learned how action script works and how to use it. I also understand how to make a movie clip move with the use of keyboard arrows. I can use the techniques that I had obtained from this lab in the future when I need to create a work in Flash in which an object that moves by clicking buttons or pressing keyboard arrows.

Reflection Journal: Project 5

Project 5 was about creating an interactive story using action scripts. I used Adobe Flash to complete this project. First, I imported all the objects from lab 16 to the stage. Next, I made few more symbols and gave an instance name for each. Then, I inserted the objects such as the bear, rabbit, snowman, sky, moon, tree, grass and flowers. I also added texts so that the viewers can understand what is happening in the story. After inserting the objects, I used keyframes and action scripts to make the story interactive. I mostly used the action script, "click to go to frame and stop", because I needed something clickable to move to different scenes in my story. This project was little bit harder than the previous projects because action script was complicated to use.

I learned how to use action script to make my work in Flash interactive by completing this project.
Although this project was difficult, I understood different kinds of actions scripts. In the future, the skills I had obtained this project can be used when I need to make an interactive and enjoyable animation,

Reflection Journal: Lab 23

Lab 23 was about creating a button that works with bouncing ball. I used Adobe Flash to complete this lab. First, I made a ball with the oval tool and added a motion tween. Then, I made two buttons.
One of the buttons is used to play the animation and another one is to stop it. Next, I inserted a new layer for action scripts. After inserting the new layer, I put action scripts for my buttons. By adding the action scripts for my buttons, the animation plays or stops as the button is pressed.

By completing this lab, I learned how to use action scripts and their functions. I also learned that action script can make a Flash animation interactive. In the future, I can use the techniques for this lab when I need to make an animation that involves with interactive features such as buttons.

Homework: Interview Skills

In my opinion, choice C has nothing to do with interview because an interviewee is supposed to answer specifically to what he or she is asked, so there are no answer choices. I think that test-taking tips are not really related to interview skills. Compared to the 1st video, the person in the 2nd video shows her willingness to get a job by talking about her strength and acting professionally. I prefer to be a job applicant like the person in the 2nd video because it is important that I show my enthusiasm by talking about what I am good at and having positive attitude.

Homework: Soft Skills--Synopsis

The Soft Skills are going to help me in the future in various ways. The enthusiasm and positive attitudes can help me during a job interview. Showing professionalism can help me to become successful by completing tasks on time, managing time wisely and being responsible. Communication skill can help me to express my ideas and share information with others. Critical thinking and problem solving skills will help me to think logically and overcome challenges. Networking will help me collect information about jobs by commucating with different people. In conclusion, the Soft Skills are going to help my life as a student and as an adult in the future.

Homework: Soft Skills--Networking

I don't think I am networking now to look for jobs. However, when I start look for jobs, I would check the website of a company and use Linked In to learn about the company. I do this so that I can gather information about the company and make sure it has the right job for me. In order to know more about the company, I would try to meet an employee from the company and communicate with him. If I am able to do this, I know that I am networking with the right people.

Homework: Soft Skills--Communication

It is important to communicate the ideas clearly, verbally and in written form because you want other people to understand what you want to say. If you cannot express your idea clearly, others might misunderstand your thoughts. In order to address your idea in written form, it is better to use many  words and proofread before you show it to someone. Overall, communication skill is essential in everywhere because it helps you to express your thoughts and receive information from other people.

Homework: Soft Skills--Critical Thinking And Problem Solving

Problem solving and critical thinking are valuable skills as a web designer because they can help find and correct their mistakes or what they need to improve on. In order to produce great work, web designers must be able think carefully and find the solution for their problem quickly. As they improve their critical thinking and problem solving skills, they can overcome any adversities they face. In conclusion, critical thinking and problem solving are key factors for web designers to become successful.

Homework: Soft Skills--Professionalism

Professionalism is to conduct yourself with responsibility, accountability, integrity and excellence. In school, there are many ways to show professionalism. One of the ways is to complete work and submit it on time. By keeping track on time, I can show my responsibility in school. Also, doing things that are needed to be done without being told to do is another way of displaying professionalism because it is important that you know what you are supposed to do. In conclusion, showing is professionalism in school will help me to become a successful student.

Homework: Soft Skills--Enthusiasm And Attitude

I can prepare for a job interview in different ways. On the day of my job interview, I must dress up professionally and have my resume organized. Also, I should be at the place of the interview 30 minutes before the job interview. These things are part of positive attitudes because they show how I am responsible and enthusiastic about the job I am applying for. During the interview, I should talk politely about myself and make eye contacts with the interviewer so that he or she can understand what kind of person I am. In conclusion, enthusiasm and positive attitudes can help me to have a successful job interview.

Reflection Journal: Lab#22

Lab 22 was about making a car animation. I used Adobe Flash to complete this lab. First, I drew the scenery such as the sky, moon, road, signal and buildings for the animation by using the tools such oval tool and rectangle tool. Then, I drew the car using the same tools for the scenery. After drawing the objects, I inserted the image of a car. Next, I inserted keyframes for each car and added motion tween between the keyframes. After putting keyframes and tweens, I test the animation to make sure the cars would move as I play it.

I learned how to use tweens show the motion of a car through this lab. I also learned how to create a realistic and colorful scenery for animation. In the future, I can use the techniques for this lab when I need to create an animation involving with a moving car.

Reflection Journal: Lab#21

Lab 21 was about putting two different types of image in one Flash document. I used Adobe Flash and Adobe Photoshop to complete this lab. First, I searched the image of a pencil and modified it in Photoshop. Next, I used different kinds of shape tools in Flash to draw a pencil. After drawing the pencil, I converted it to a graphic symbol. Then, I put three instances including two pencils I drew and the image of a pencil onto the stage. After doing this, I change the color effect of one of the pencils I drew. Finally, I put the swf file of this lab and put it into a html document.

By completing this lab, I learned the differences between vector and bitmap image. This is relevant to Web Design because it is important for the designers know the significance of vector and bitmap image in their website. In the future, I can apply the techniques for this lab when I need to draw something by using the tools from Adobe Flash.

Homework: Soft Skills--Teamwork

There are many skills required for a person to work with others as a cohesive team. Communication skill is one of them because if I need to complete a group project, I have to talk and share my ideas with my teammates. By sharing ideas with others, I can hear and understand how they think about my ideas. Another skill is helping and cooperating with other people. In order to work successfully as a team, I have to help my other teammates and fix their problems. By doing this, we can correct our mistakes and improve our work. Overall, there are various kinds of skills needed for a person to work well with others in order to produce great work.

Reflection Journal: Lab#20

Lab 20 was about adding sounds to the button symbols from Lab 19. In order to complete this lab, I used two softwares, Adobe Flash and Garage Band. First, I opened Garage Band and created 10 sounds for my 10 button symbols. Then, I opened Adobe Flash and imported the sounds. Next, I created a new layer for 10 buttons symbols and inserted the sounds. By doing this, the symbol makes a noise when it is clicked. I tested the lab to make sure all the sounds work when I click on the symbols. Last, I imported the swf file for this lab and put it into a html document.

I learned how to insert sounds to button symbols by completing this lab. This is relevant to Web Design because web designers can include their works with sounds in their websites. I can apply the procedures and techniques for this lab in the future when I need to create make something with sounds in Adobe Flash.

Reflection Journal: Lab#19

Lab 19 was about making button symbols. I used Adobe Flash to complete this lab. First, I opened Lab 16 and saved it as Lab 19. Then, I converted all the graphic symbols to button symbols. Next, I added keyframes to the button symbols and moved them to somewhere in the stage. By doing this, the symbols would move when a cursor is placed on top of them and when it clicks on them.
After adding keyframes, I tested the lab by pressing "command" and "enter" on the keyboard. Finally, I put the swf file for this lab into a html document and post it online.

By completing this lab, I learned how to use button symbols in Adobe Flash. This lab is applicable to Web Design because the designers can include their works from Flash in their website. In the future, I can use button symbols to make unique and interesting animations in Adobe Flash.

Reflection Journal: CTE Expo 2015

On February 12, there was CTE Expo in our school. It was held for freshmen to see what CTE academies are like. There are three CTE academies, Web Design, Video Production and Apple. Since I am currently attending in Web Design Academy, I introduced what my academy is like to freshmen.
Before freshmen came to the computer lab or room 237, we prepared for the Expo by turning all the computers and showing our websites on the screen. When Freshmen came to our class, I explained what I did for the projects on my website. I also explained the poster for my Respect For All animation to my English teacher, Ms.Conn.

The CTE Expo was very great opportunity to introduce my academy. It was pretty fun to explain my works to freshmen, sophomores and my teacher. Also, I learned what I will be doing in my senior year by observing the works of seniors. I also remembered what I did in my sophomore year by looking at the business card project.

Reflection Journal: Lab#18

Lab#18 was about creating a mask in Adobe Flash. First, I imported the image to stage. Then, I created the layer called "mask" and used the oval tool to define the area of the mask layer that I want to be transparent. Next, I turned the "mask" layer to Mask. After turning it to Mask, I inserted a frame at frame 20 in both layers and classic tween in the mask layer. Then, I move the shape that I created by using the oval tool. By completing all the steps, part of the image is shown as the oval moves. 

 

I learned how to make masks and used them in Flash. This is lab was not too difficult to complete since I had to follow instruction from the handout. In the future, I can use the techniques for this lab when I need to use masks in Adobe Flash.

Reflection Journal: Self-Evaluation Fall Semester

http://www.techteach.us/DD2014/KHisanobu/

http://www.techteach.us/DD2014/KHisanobu/Labindex.html

http://www.techteach.us/DD2014/KHisanobu/Projects/projectindex.html

I think I did well in the Fall Semester because I learned many things in all the classes and earned good grades in each class. During the Fall Semester, I learned about different aspects in Web designing such as html tags, CSS and the tools of Adobe Dreamweaver. Using Dreamweaver and Fireworks was particularly easy and fun because I was able to understand and get used to them quickly. However, using Adobe Flash was difficult and challenging since I had a hard time in making animation by using different kinds of tweens and symbols. As a result of this, I could not give in  the works I made in Flash on time. Everything I learned and experienced in the Fall Semester is vital because it needs to be applied to what I will be learning in the Spring Semester.  For the Spring Semester, I need improve by studying hard, reviewing my notes and spending time wisely.

Reflection Journal: Project 4

Project 4 was about creating an animation for Respect For All. The theme of my animation was racism. Through the animation, I showed that the police is treating people unfairly and there should not be racism in this country. To complete this project, I used Adobe Flash for making the animation and Adobe Dreamweaver for putting the animation into a html document. I first drew storyboard for the animation to organize my ideas.Then, I made many graphic and movie symbols for the animation using Flash. Next, I inserted these symbols to the stage and started animating them by using keyframes. In this part of the project, I used textbox to include the conversation of the police and people. After making the animation, I test it to make sure there is no mistake. Finally, I put the animation into the html document.

By completing this project, I learned how to create an animation that plays for more than 10 seconds.
I also learned how to animate symbols by using keyframes.In the future, I can use the techniques for this project when I have to make an animation using Adobe Flash.

Reflection Journal: Lab#17

Lab 17 was about turning the graphic symbols from the Lab 16 to movie clips. I used Adobe Flash and applied the techniques from the previous labs to complete this lab. First, I converted some of the graphic symbols to movie clips. After converting them, I used keyframes so that when the animation is played, the apple falls from the tree and the arm of the snowman moves. Finally, I export this file to swf file and put it into the html document for this lab.

By completing this lab, I learned and understood how to make an animation in Flash by using movie clip symbols. In the future, I can use the skills from this lab when I create a Flash animation using symbols, keyframes and different kinds of tweens.

Reflection Journal: Lab#16

 

Lab 16 was about making graphic symbols and placing them on to the stage. I used Adobe Flash and different kinds shape tools to complete this lab. First, I used the oval and line tool to draw a snowman. Then, I converted all his body parts such as arms and face to a graphic symbol. To draw the house, I used the line and rectangle tool. For the bear, rabbit, tree and flowers, I used the oval, oval primitive, rectangle and pencil tool. After creating the symbols, I place them all onto the stage.

 

 

By completing this lab, I learned how to draw objects by using different types of tools in Flash.

I also learned how to put all the shapes together to make one object. In the future, I can apply the concept of this lab when I need to make many symbols using Adobe Flash.

Reflection Journal: Lab#15 Happy Face

Lab 15 was making an animation with faces. I used Adobe Flash to complete this lab. First, I created eyes, mouth and eyebrows for the face. Then, I combined and converted them to symbols. By using symbols, I was able to reduce the filesize of the document. Next, I inserted frames and animated the face using keyframes and motion tween. After this, I put three faces with different colors and sizes into the stage.

I learned the importance of symbols and tweens in a Flash animation from this lab. I also learned how to use the selection and subselection tool in Flash. In the future, I can apply the skills for this lab in order to create a Flash animation using symbols, instances and different types of tweens.