Objectives:
Assignment:
If you haven't used the WWW before, it is accessible through any of the computers in the SILS Computer Lab by clicking on the NETSCAPE icon, which will bring you to the SILS Homepage. (See me if you haven't found your way to the Lab as of yet). [If you are new to the WWW, you can find introductory information on the WEB and NETSCAPE from the initial screen by clicking on the HANDBOOK bar near the top of the screen.} If you have used the WWW before, you may be able to base your thinking on your previous experience. Otherwise, For the purposes of this assignment, please explore at least a couple of WWW applications beyond the SILS Homepage and more if you wish. For at least one of your escapades, use the Net Search bar near the top of the screen to identify Homepages that relate to something of interest to you. You can also find out about Homepage possibilities by clicking on the What's New or the What's Cool bars on the screen.
Think about the problems that you had as keys to understanding some of the "organization" and interface and system design issues that arise in information systems. In particular, as you explore the WWW, think about the "organization" structures (links) that are necessary as well as the representational (what is on or available through the page), classification (how the information is ordered, grouped, etc.), and display (how the representation and classification decisions appear on the screen) decisions that make the information provided by the application accessible to you.
Class Discussion:
Tentatively plan to spend some time during Session #7 (9/16/96) to discuss this mini-project.
For Your Portfolio:
Write a brief (1-2 page) summary of your insights and reactions to the WWW experience. Especially focus on the roles of representation, classification, and display. What makes the WWW work? What problems do the organizing mechanisms of the WWW create for its users?
Compare your remarks for Mini-Projects 1 and 2. Where does the comparison lead your thinking about organizing information?
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