Using multimedia is a great way to make your independent project more interesting. In Tristan's case, I have decided that a poster is the best way as it is simple, concise and gets the message across fast. Younger generations don't like reading pages of information, and posters use loads of pictures and very few words. This picture summarises different types of multimedia :
What did I find easy:
- writing the diary entries
What did I find hard:
- finding information
- looking for facts to back my points up
- making up my word count
What were my problems and how did i encounter them:
- research= asking and comparing with peers, visit loads of different sources
Reflection: My Independent Project:
When first starting my IP, I had quite a hard time deciding what I wanted to write it about. I picked the topic Death Penalty, and decided to try to narrow it down. I reviewed various websites and realized that they all concentrated on the same things: if its morally right, if its good for the country etc. I found that very few of the actually concentrated on the medical effects of the death penalty.
After loads of narrowing down and debating with myself, I finally decided on doing my IP on the "Psychological Effects of the Death Penalty". I focused mainly on the effects of depression on the prisoner, how knowing that he/she is going to die effects them, how this effected their family and also, the "death penalty syndrome".
Once that was settled, I started to think about how to present my data. My first idea was a 2000 word essay, but it seemed very boring. I thought of what would best put my point across, and I decided on doing diary entries, with a supporting essay of 750 words. Personally, I thought it was the best way as I wanted to let my reader's know exactly what the victim and their families were going through.
Researching on this was my next obstacle. I managed to get some books on psychology, but none of them were quite what I was looking for. Presenting my personal opinions as well as a global perspective weren't very challenging. However, finding any Malaysian information relating to the death penalty is near impossible, so I decided to focus on the US for the national perspective.
There are quite a few things I would have liked to improve on. I would have liked to collect more information on my topic, as well as try to contact a few specialists on this matter. Also, preparing an iMovie would have strengthened my case a little more.
Overall, I'm quite happy with myself as I did achieve what I wanted too :)
