Static vs. Dynamic vs. Timeline: How They Differ

 

        Screenshots from all three of my ePortfolio projects

Over the course of this class, we've worked on all three types of the above-mentioned multimodal projects: static, dynamic, and timeline-based. In doing so, we've become familiar with the components and requirements of each. Not only do they require different layouts and assets, but they also call for different approaches to visualization and drafting processes. Let's go through an overview of each.

Static texts are by far the simplest type of multimodal text. That being said, it doesn't mean they don't require planning and effort. Not only that, but we come into contact with them daily. Online articles, Facebook and Twitter posts, and many other types of online media are good examples of static texts. These are texts that don't require interaction from the audience, often composed primarily of written text coupled with media such as images and embedded videos. While these are, again, relatively simple, they still require careful planning as any written piece does. The choice to include other media and the process of carefully selecting that media can also alter the entire feel and impact of the text. We practiced this type of text when creating our personal data portraits.

Dynamic texts are those that do require interaction from the audience. Interactive infographics are a common example of dynamic multimodal texts. For this reason, they tend to require more planning and effort than static texts. When creating our literacy story map, there was a need to anticipate all of the different ways and sequences in which the audience would interact with the piece. A written story pitch, a collection of assets, and a wireframe mockup were all required for the completion of this project. This multi-step planning process lends well to working out both the visuals and the many possibilities of audience interaction.

Timeline-based texts are also very, very common in the content we come into contact with daily. The most notable example of these are videos. This type of texts is somewhat of a blend of static and dynamic, in that the audience can often choose when to play or pause the video, or skip around to view it at different points. However, timeline-based texts tend to be primarily static as they're designed to be viewed in a specific order, from shot to shot. The digital story video we're currently working on represents our personal experience with timeline-based texts. A written script, a collection of assets, and a storyboard were required for the drafting process. Again, these steps (especially the storyboard) lend to the visualization of the finished product during the drafting process.

On the topic of ethics, regardless of which form of multimodal text is utilized, one must always remember that people of all different walks of life, struggles, and experiences will be viewing their work. As such, especially nowadays, it's quite important to consider how your piece will affect those who come into contact with it. The way your product is perceived will affect not only you as an author, but your audience as well. In today's world where ethics are often forgotten in the use of social media, I feel it remains a significant consideration when putting out content onto the Internet.

As a sign-off, I hope that my own considerations for such ethics has come through in the media I've presented to you all throughout this course. Thank you deeply for taking the time to view my work!