learning objectives...

1. Develop visualization (information) in which formal variables have been systematically developed and managed (i.e. type point, face, orientation, justification / line weight, texture, length, orientation / color / 2D spatial grid)

I think my visual elements are quite harmonious because the only variable I have used is that of line. I have embedded meaning by varying line weight, the angle of the line and by grouping lines. In this way, the growth pattern of the fetus can be more easily seen.

2. Develop visual abstractions of conceptually based information (encoding/decoding)

The reason I chose line as my visual abstraction is because it is the most basic visual and in our minds connotes a connection when placed between two points. It was important for me to join my different variables, so using a line was the most fitting visual.

3. Use analytical thinking to create a structure (organizational basis) for the visualized concepts using hierarchy and visual syntax

Hierarchy was not so much of a major element in my piece as all three of my data groups were of equal importance. By making one stand out more than the other, I would be confusing the viewer.

I made sure that my chart was placed on one single page because if not, the viewer would have to flip through and the total growth would not be evident. I organized my chart so that the data moves from left to right and all the variables begin at stage zero. All variables are mapped parallel to each other so that they can be seen as a 'whole'.


4. Identify a target audience (literacy and functional needs) and develop a strategy of usability and accessibility

I identified a clear target audience but I don’t think it is visually specific to that group as it functions for doctors too. This is the part of the project that confuses me because we are supposed to think about functionality more than visuals, but I think that sometimes visuals play a key role in targeting a specific group, even if the functionality remains the same.

5. Work within and utilize the limitations (i.e. black white, 2D, visual only) to develop semantic performance of syntactic elements

I didn't really have a problem with the color limitations because I usually restrict myself to using black and white. I even had to push myself to use the color orange because I didn’t think it was necessary, but in the end I am glad I did.

The reason I picked the color orange is that it does not have connotations of the sex of the baby. Also, I needed to choose a bright color that would make my black lines stand out.