RSS 1.0SUNY Polytechnic Institute Information Design + Technology (IDT) Program Theses and Projects
Recent Submissions
-
The Creation of a Podcast about the Challenges of Leadership in Educational TechnologyThis project explores the dimensions of podcasting success and the technical prerequisites for setting up a podcast, using the artifact analysis method within the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework. The study examines successful podcasts as cultural artifacts and investigates the technical aspects of podcast production. The research involves a comparative study of top-ranking podcasts and a review of podcasting guides and resources. The expected outcome is a podcast series about technology leadership challenges, specifically for educational technology leaders. The podcast aims to provide an outlet for these leaders to discuss their challenges.
-
Improving User Experience & Functionality for SUNY’s Open Access Repository (SOAR)Institutional Repositories (IRs) are important for universities and colleges in helping to manage and capture intellectual assets as a part of their information strategy. A digital repository can hold a wide range of materials for a variety of purposes and users. It can support research, learning, and administrative processes. Higher education institutions must manage their educational, research and associated assets more effectively and transparently than in the past. The great advantage of repositories is that they help institutions to develop coherent and coordinated approaches to the capture, identification, storage, and retrieval of their intellectual assets. These intellectual assets go beyond normal publishing regimes, and may include audiovisual objects, datasets, presentations, learning materials, scholarly publications and the research works of both faculty & students. A cohesive, centralized, and managed approach to these assets enhances opportunities for efficient use of existing research, increases opportunities for improved learning experiences and encourages collaboration within and between different disciplines and groups. The purpose of this project is to provide background information on the types of institutional repositories, discuss core features & functions of IRs, illustrate the benefits and challenges of implementation, review and compare the most prevalent software platforms for IRs, discuss how user experience plays into the institutional repository and evaluate the current SUNY repository platform; the SUNY Online Access Repository (SOAR) to develop a consolidated, centralized repository prototype in the hope that it will provide a better user experience and improved functionality across all SUNY campuses.
-
X, formally Known as Twitter: Documenting Group Development Through Storytelling In DesignIn 2006, Twitter launched as a novel social media platform characterized by its succinct 140-character limit with bright, bubbly branding. The site attracted people around the world from all walks of life, and by 2022, the renowned company boasted over 200 million active accounts and became a well-known name within the media landscape. That same year, the social media company would undergo new private ownership, leading to significant transformations for users. Now rebranded as X by entrepreneur Elon Musk, numerous changes have taken place, sending shockwaves to users with each new transformation. This paper uses Tuckman's model of group development stages to examine the long-term impacts of leadership and user-interface changes on the community and cultural dynamics of the platform formerly known as Twitter. In addition, a timeline created in Adobe Illustrator used various design methods and principles to tell the history of Twitter, X, and the transition between them in a unified design.
-
Enhancing Community Health Worker Training Materials with Instructional and Visual Design PrinciplesThis capstone project applies visual and instructional design principles to enhance Community Health Workers' (CHWs) training. With the crucial role of CHWs in mind, it focuses on upgrading PowerPoint presentations used in their training, incorporating key instructional design theories such as Gagne’s nine events and Mayer's Multimedia principles, alongside visual design principles of Unity, Contrast, Scale, Balance, Contrast, Dominance, and Gestalt principles. The project evaluates existing materials, pinpoints deficiencies, and suggests novel redesign approaches for more effective learning experiences. The methodology encompasses literature reviews and design analyses, using PowerPoint for the revised materials to elevate CHW training materials. The findings underscore the impact of strategic instructional and visual design on the quality of training programs.
-
Web Accessibility: Simplification of WCAG 2.0 to Increase Adherence on Higher Education WebsitesThe purpose of this project is to give higher education website administrators a tool to help educate and train contributors to websites who may not have technology skills, but are required to adhere to laws governing web accessibility. This tool will consist of a website that users can visit to learn about web accessibility guidelines and see concrete examples of how to meet the guidelines. The site language will be straightforward and as simple as possible. The goals are to promote understanding of the laws and guidelines, educate the users, and through the use of a user voting system, increase the usefulness of the information over time by incorporating user feedback. The project goals will be accomplished by incorporating an approach that combines graphic design, web design, and web development.
-
Building a Job Portfolio Designed to Show Risk/Reward AttributesFor this project, I used my existing knowledge of branding and marketing as a YouTube creator to reinvent my web portfolio concepts with this knowledge in ways to show that extra risk/reward to employers. The project itself, which is a website coded from scratch using HTML, CSS and JavaScript, displays all my works as well as the techniques used to complete them, whilst using design styles to draw attention to the pieces within. This allows future employers to also see what it is they would be working with in the future, thus the risk/reward attributes focused on in this capstone. The goal was to establish my work to employers and have a site that I can continue to build upon going forward past this capstone course as well as showcase who I am, my work ethic and capabilities through the site’s design and content. My plan was to gain knowledge through core aspects of web design by taking courses that challenged myself in learning something new and building something concrete in a short time period. I anticipated the biggest obstacle to be ensuring functionality. This was overcome with consistent testing through trial and error. Also, I referenced Risk and Reward (Jakka, 2023) in businesses to further show why this capstone would work and its usefulness in the fields I strive for in my future. With the sources within this document, I focused on building a website that fits the needs of a business to which I am applying. Below is the link to the webpage for viewing purposes: https://people.sunypoly.edu/~deforen/Exercises/CapstoneAboutMe.html
-
Designing and Developing a Box-Breathing Progressive Web App (PWA) for Creative ProfessionalsThis research paper explores the design and development of a Progressive Web App (PWA) tailored to the needs of creative professionals. It addresses the unique challenges faced by these individuals and presents potential solutions through a box-breathing PWA. The PWA will be a tool provided by MuseWell, a brand established by the author of this paper, which delivers helpful content for creative professionals. In addition to serving as a valuable breathing tool, this paper will touch upon how this PWA will serve as a repository for beneficial MuseWell content for creative professionals. The paper begins by discussing the correlation between stress and creativity. It acknowledges that creative professionals often experience higher stress levels, which can impede creativity, increase anxiety, and decrease productivity. Strategies such as mindfulness breathing exercises, explicitly box-breathing, are explored as a positive method for alleviating stress, improving focus, and enhancing creativity. Furthermore, this paper examines the efficacy and impact of mindful breathing apps. It concludes that these tools provide improved focus and significant stress reduction. Additionally, the research explores the value of incorporating a mindful breathing exercise app into a PWA, emphasizing the versatility of this format. The paper also highlights the importance of conducting evaluations and gathering user feedback to assess the effectiveness and practicality of the PWA. Delving into the technical aspects, the paper explores a PWA's architecture, design principles, and implementation mechanisms, strongly emphasizing user-centered design. A comprehensive analysis was conducted on ten different box-breathing apps, carefully evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of each. The insights gained from this evaluation were then utilized to inform the app's design and development for this project, ensuring a sound architecture and positive user experience. The primary objective of this project was to create and deliver a functional PWA that is designed to reduce stress, enhance creativity, and provide helpful MuseWell resources for creative professionals. The live PWA can be seen at https://people.sunypoly.edu/~bucklem2/musewell_app/index.html. To add the MuseWell PWA on your iOS device, start by visiting the website mentioned: https://people.sunypoly.edu/~bucklem2/musewell_app/index.html. Once the page is loaded in Safari, tap on the "Share" icon. From the options that appear, select "Add to Home Screen." Finally, confirm the installation by tapping the "Add" button.
-
Introduction to Fiber Optics for the New Technician: An Online CourseThis paper explores the intricacies of designing high-quality online courses, with a specific focus on examining instructional design elements used in the creation of the online course "Introduction to Fiber Optics for the New Technician." It reviews existing frameworks, models, standards, and rubrics, differentiating between those offering conceptual guidance and those providing best practices through detailed specifications. The review begins with examining the Five-Star Teaching Cycle Framework of Online Courses, integrating Merrill's First Principles of Instruction and the e3 teaching concept for efficiency, effectiveness, and engagement. Then onto standards and rubrics from systems like the SUNY Online Course Quality Review Rubric (OSCQR), Online Course Design Elements (OCDE), and Quality Matters (QM) are embraced and adjusted to suit an occupational setting. The methodology section outlines the approach, drawing from methods such as chunking, scaffolding, narrative structure, and modular course design. Course mapping, employing backward design principles, is emphasized as a pivotal method for identifying learning objectives, assessments, and instructional materials. The interplay of chunking, scaffolding, narrative structure, and modular course design is explored as integral components contributing to a well-structured and engaging learning experience. Implementing these principles and methods has resulted in the development of a learner-centered online course in fiber optics.
-
Emerging Technologies Supporting Cognitive Development In School-Age ChildrenOver the past few years, the importance of mental health has gained unprecedented attention and priority across various sectors of society. Many children have dealt with some form of undiagnosed or untreated mental illness that interferes with their ability to learn. These disorders can seriously affect daily life and continue into adulthood, creating a precarious home, school, and social life. Due to the increased use of technology over the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic, it is now commonplace to rely on technological innovations for mental health in children. Technology has advanced to expand child engagement and interactivity, especially for children who struggle with emotional regulation, social skills, and coping strategies. Research has shown that the human brain is fully developed at age 25. The longer a child has cognitive and emotional stability, the greater it positively affects their lives. Interventions should be given early in the child’s life. And if technology is available to aid in those interventions, everyone should be able to access them. The main objective of this paper is to explore how emerging digital interventions can improve mental health in children, specifically those with deficits in cognitive development. In conjunction with this paper, the website childmindtechnologies.com has been created for practitioners, educators, and parents, aiming to facilitate the adoption of these digital interventions in various settings, whether it be at home, in school, or in clinical environments.
-
Harnessing AI for Holistic Educational Development: Designing a Comprehensive CourseThis paper outlines the project, methods, and theoretical analysis undertaken to address the question: How can a curriculum be optimized to effectively prepare contemporary students for a professional career in graphic design? Can AI be used to build this course and make it effective, if restricted to its use as a sounding board and source of inspiration, allowing access and collaboration with the world's information and innovative teaching methods? The theoretical background reveals that the traditional lecture model is increasingly being overshadowed by holistic and hands-on approaches, and that, furthermore, it is essential to educate students about potential career paths beyond their immediate field of study. The conclusion is drawn that by integrating modern pedagogies, career development practices, and the latest technological advances in design, a curriculum can be developed that resonates with students, laying a robust foundation for their academic and professional trajectories. This paper concludes that while there are studies that address individual components of the project outcome, this comprehensive and integrative approach, assisted with the use of artificial intelligence tools, appears to be a novel contribution to the field.
-
Connecting with Your Audience: Branding Guidelines for Small Manufacturing BusinessesIn modern markets, products and services are regularly available to customers. There are many options available to customers when it comes to purchasing, and the key for a small business to stand out from the competition in their target market is to develop and deploy an effective brand. To develop effective branding, a company must first understand its own purpose and value, and how it can help the target audience solve a need in their lives. To achieve this a company should develop a comprehensive brand, including guidelines on how and when to deploy branding resources to ensure consistent and effective visual resources. By deploying effective branding resources and strategies, a small business can be seen as professional and modern, and help a new business stand out in crowded markets and build their brand recognition within their target markets. This project will discuss standard industry practices for developing branding materials, and will eventually demonstrate these principles through the development of a branding package for a small local business called Automated Solutions, LLC. This brand style guide can be found in the Appendix.
-
Creating a Game Development Course Using Teaching Contextually and Situated Learning TheoriesThis capstone project endeavored to create a course curriculum designed to instruct intermediate level college students on how to develop a video game. This project was built upon the idea that students have a fundamental understanding of video games and an interest in furthering their skill sets in game creation. The design and development created draws inspiration from the theories of Teaching Contextually and Situated Learning. The objectives of this project were to gain experience producing teaching materials, motivating students, creating an engaging classroom discussion, learning how to implement gamification, and refining my own career ambitions. These objectives have allowed this project to serve as a future reference when developing course materials, as well as help minimize potential challenges involving course assembly. Furthermore, this project has provided insights into the advantages and disadvantages of using a course structure based around the theories of Teaching Contextually and Situated Learning. The project can be found at this URL link below: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1aJ0YNrGgNqNc7oCzpa-itjBcgejh4r1S?usp=sharing Here are the key takeaways from this project. Applying theories into the course material facilitates student learning. Contributing factors to student engagement are time, interest, and willingness. Implementing drastically new teaching methods too quickly reduces learning effectiveness. The teaching profession has many facets that influence the learning environment.
-
Designing accessible websites is crucial for creating an inclusive online environment, as it enhances usability, ensures equal access to information and services, and promotes the principles of universal designThis paper outlines the author's proposal to create a responsive website showcasing their creative work and skills as a visual and information designer. The website adheres to the most recent Website Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.0) and incorporates best website design practices. The website includes a homepage and four main landing pages (Audio, Video, Image, and Text), displaying various content types cohesively through an emphasis on universal design principles. The author aims to achieve a high Signal-to-Noise Ratio, providing clear visual and textual hierarchy, while integrating various media elements effectively. The paper conducts a literature review, exploring effective website design elements, usability, and future design trends. It highlights the significance of accessibility for individuals with cognitive disabilities and the importance of combining aesthetics with functionality. The research outcomes discuss the evolution of WCAG, from version 2.0 to the upcoming version 3.0. It emphasizes the relevance of adhering to accessibility guidelines and incorporating alternative text, captions, and keyboard support to ensure an inclusive user experience. The paper concludes by stating the importance of ongoing improvements to meet evolving accessibility requirements and standards.
-
Briefing SUNY Poly’s President on Why We Should Continue with Slate as Our Official CRMSlate is a comprehensive platform for admissions & enrollment management, student success, and alumni & advancement. Slate, by Technolutions, is the only customer relationship management software (CRM) to provide a single interface for outreach communications, travel management, online applications, alumni and donor engagement and more. I will include a review of how SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly) previously processed applications, hosted events, and effectively communicated with students before the use of Slate. Then I will assess how Slate has enhanced SUNY Poly’s undergraduate admissions office improvements on production and effective communication with students. My goal is to provide advanced data to show a proposal on why Slate should be your institutions official CRM and include recommendations on how to be a premier user. A journal will demonstrate the theories and methods on how other institutions use Slate and how they have designed and implemented successful plans at their institution. This conclusion should explain why Slate is the best CRM for any institution, specifically SUNY Poly.
-
Design Analysis & Redesign Proposal: SUNY Poly IDT Web PageWhen it comes to web design, industry standards, best practices and trends are all constantly evolving to adapt to the needs and desires of users. In the Digital Information Age, it is critical to remain as up to date as possible with regard to web page and information design. The SUNY Polytech IDT webpage was designed back in 2016 and has not been updated to reflect the current professional recommendations for web design, more specifically, the design of a graduate program page. A review of other graduate program web pages, web analytics for the IDT page and a review of the current professional literature on web design has been completed to provide a research-based proposal for the redesign. This project aims to conduct a comprehensive design analysis of the current IDT web page, provide a consultant report that includes findings and suggestions for improvements and to provide the Office of Communication and Marketing at SUNY Polytech with a clickable prototype to aid in the implementation of the design. The new design for the IDT web page aims to enhance existing page content, better showcase the IDT student experience, improve the user experience and optimize page usability, convert more prospects into applicants, and create a space for current IDT students to connect. The long-term goal of the institution is to increase program exposure to more prospective students and ultimately convert them into program applicants.
-
Able2 Enhancing Potential Inc. Consultancy ReportAble2 Enhancing Potential Inc. has been trying to increase their social media presence and hired a consultancy agency to help investigate what could be improved and changed. The consultant investigated previous reports, current posting status and researched post content and design ideas. It was determined that Able2 would allow the consultant to devise a social media annual calendar with content themes for a month and employ these content ideas into current postings.
-
The Intersection of Emoji and Data Visualization: Creating Effective and Engaging VisualizationsThe project delves into effective data visualization techniques to describe the story of emojis through data. The current era is marked by an overwhelming amount of information, with data quality becoming increasingly complex. While the term big data has gained popularity in recent times, there is a growing desire to derive meaning from data. Emojis have had a significant impact on how people communicate in the digital age. They serve as a visual communication system, allowing individuals to express themselves in a playful and intimate way. Over time, they have evolved to fill an emotional gap in the way we express ourselves online, allowing for greater nuance and depth in our digital conversations. By exploring emotional iconography as emoji content, I aim to gain a deeper understanding of visualization and digital communication through the project. The project discusses the importance of data visualization in effective communication of insights and decision-making. Explore the need to choose the right tools to effectively communicate data through visualization, follow graphic design best practices, and create insightful stories. It also highlights the role of well-designed representations in improving accessibility, and comprehension. By incorporating design methods that understand human interaction, such as affordance and universal design, it suggests that effective data visualization can be realized by incorporating design methods that understand human interaction, such as affordance and universal design, to support cognitive related processes. The project explores that with a thoughtful and intentional approach, data can be transformed into an engaging and effective tool for communication, enabling the creation of data visualizations that are clear, engaging, and support messages.
-
Teaching Remotely: Analyzing the Instructional Use of Google ClassroomThrough an ethnographic study and analysis of Google Classroom, this project explores how teachers utilized software tools in a remote environment during the Covid 19 Pandemic. Specifically, by interviewing 4-grade school teachers in rural and city locations in the upstate New York area, to understand the advantages and disadvantages of Google Classroom as a platform for online instructing. Furthermore, to examine key features of the tool, such as information structure and navigation, that made online instruction accessible when virtually teaching in a remote setting. The names of the interviewees will be anonymized to the reader for personal confidentially. The questions that were asked were both by questionnaire and in-person interviews. They were specifically formed to relate to the use of Google Classroom and focus on the assets of the collaborative tool that were utilized to do their job.
-
Best Practices for Hybrid MeetingsVideo conferencing technology has become ubiquitous in the professional and personal lives of millions in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. While this technology had been steadily becoming commonplace, the lockdowns in response to the pandemic rapidly accelerated this trend. A consequence of this seemingly overnight shift in how work was done was that users were left to figure out for themselves how to best utilize this technology, which resulted in negative effects such as distractions, stress, and inefficient meetings. While offices eventually reopened as the threat of the virus subsided, many companies continued to allow employees to work from home, giving rise to the concept of hybrid meetings. The aim of this project is to identify best practices for hybrid meetings through research of participants and facilitators of meetings and large presentations and to put this information in a condensed infographic.
-
The Information Architecture of Military Spouse Architect LicensingThe study investigates the information architecture of state central licensing agency and licensing board websites and forms through the lens of accessibility to determine their usability, discoverability, and findability for military spouse licensing applicants. One hundred websites and forms were examples. In addition to the accessibility evaluation, state statutes were examined for providing accommodations to military spouses through comity, reciprocity, temporary licensing, expedited licensure, and enhanced licensure via affidavit. Board policies and regulations were also evaluated to determine the impact of license requirements on portability and whether or not they were made accessible. Findings suggest that despite the availability of a variety of policies to facilitate license portability, most state central agencies and licensing boards have not made these policies accessible. Findings were visualized using Tableau in a series of choropleth maps, histograms and scatterplots.
