“What did I learn and how can I use it in the future?”
I found the readings and assignments in this lesson much less interesting and stimulating than some of the past sessions. I did not find too much new information or tips in the readings, although the attached powerpoint was extremely helpful on a technical level. However, since I have been designing, updating, and editing my own dance website for the past three years I think I learned more than I realized simply through trial and error. I may not have sat down and read that less text is more, but I discovered it myself as I played with different ideas and designs on my website. Creating www.coexistdance.com was extremely tedious and frustrating as a novice to website design and set up. However, with time, patience, practice, and experience I have sharpened a lot of website skills.
As I mentioned in my past blog, I have used Go Daddy and Wix as domains for my dance company's website. I was excited to try Google Sites and compare all three domains for personal gain and knowledge. Unfortunately, I am disappointed to admit that I was not impressed with what Google had to offer. I found Google Sites extremely difficult to navigate. I did not find this resource user-friendly by any means. I found myself frustrated or confused much more often than I have been with any other source we have tried - including Excel, PowerPoint, Desktop Publishing and Web 2.0 Applications. I was surprised that Google did not offer more customized options for users to experiment and play with. I loved making the flyer and brochure for this class because I could test out so many different WordArt options and other features. The templates Google Sites provided were great; but I regretted choosing one of the automated templates in hindsight. I felt stuck and much more committed to a specific design than I had anticipated.
The other aspect of Google Sites that I did like was inserting Google Calendar. The convenience and easy access Google Sites provides with linking the calendars is great! I love how the calendar on the website automatically updates and how easy it is to read.
Overall, I think I would still choose Go Daddy or Wix for a professional website. These both offer an easier navigation system and more customization choices. However, I think Google Sites is a solid, cost-free resource for teachers or any educator who wants to create a website with very little funds.
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