Trying to learn how to use software for the first time is not exactly fun. I like piktochart but there is a definite learning curve. I had to keep the faq open so I could figure out how to group things together, delete uploaded images, and so on. Other than having to use piktochart for the first time, I guess my main issue is that I don't have a clear idea of what to make the infographic about.
Because this infographic's purpose is to teach seventh graders how to use piktochart to make an infographic, I am sticking with the free version. In order to be relevant to seventh graders, I chose the topic of video games and thought I could do a quick infographic on the most popular ones. It has turned into a long project. I think trying to find the information while I'm designing is the first hurdle. At least these students will already have their topic and research done when they are making their infographics.
Some of the questions and problems I've run into:
1. I had to watch demos and read up before I could use piktograph. Apparently, the first version that comes up (Magic?) doesn't work on my computer, so I was trying to learn how to do something that wasn't even there. I reverted to the older version and finally got what I was supposed to see.
2. About the licenses: I used wikimedia commons to find common logos for XBox and PS3 and Nintendo and so on, but I can't find most of the game covers to show on the infographic. Do I need to find game covers with "free to use" licenses? Wouldn't the game creators be happy to have the free publicity?
3. Do you have to cite information on everything you use? I don't notice that on other infographics and posting long URL's would be breaking one of the design principles.
4. The free version of piktochart only allows five uploaded images. I blew that allowance with the game system logos, so I am left with using text alone to do the rest of it. And the graphics offered with the free version are specific to the one of five themes you chose. I chose one that was about recycling so none of those graphics are relevant.
5. There is no definite place to find "the most popular video games." There is a "top 100" list on gamesradar.com, but I discovered that most of the games listed are older than the 7th grade students. I eventually realized that I had better narrow my search to "the most popular video games of 2013" but, again, who is a credible source for this? Amazon.com and IMDb have their opinions and they are recognizable sites, so will they do?
6. The infographic needs to be minimal because the assignment is to teach 7th grade students to use piktochart via this infographic in about 20 minutes. Too many bells and whistles will take too long to demonstrate. Maybe it is faster to demonstrate how piktochart works instead of figuring it out by yourself?
7. Apparently there is no way to change colors of the text...or anything...unless you do a "mood change". I wonder if this is different with the PRO version?
8. I didn't do any charts or graphs....is this okay?
So many questions. It's acceptable practice to use book covers so I'm guessing the same goes for game covers. These are protected by copyright but the publishers are happy for the publicity. Copyright law is a wishy-washy field.
ReplyDeleteAs a librarian, I think citations are very important and I often think of myself as creator. If I posted my photos on Flickr I would want credit and would express that through the license I offered. This is why I like Flickr, we know the wishes of the creator. I agree they muddy up an infographic - put them in small print or in the accompanying material. I think a chart or graph should be a part of an infographic.
It may be that now that you have experience Piktochart you will choose to show 7th graders how to use another tool.