The Challenge
During my undergrad studies at Texas Tech University I was tasked with putting together an online portfolio. This image is clickable over to the still-existing live website. https://askkori.com/ttu-hm
For that assignment I built out a sub folder system on an existing website for my YouTube tutorials. I earned an A for that version.
However, as a MATC Capstone project that website fell short due to the lack of applied methodologies, insightful theories, and advanced artifacts. At this graduate level we were challenged to apply our learned skills answering the following questions:
- How do I construct a portfolio showcasing my rhetorical, design, academic, and workplace skills?
- How might a “bridge” portfolio adapt for audience and purpose in sustainable ways?
- How might theoretical framing be important for a reflective portfolio with revised artifacts?
- How can knowing distinctions between industry, teaching, and research portfolios be useful?
The Process
1. I initiated the project by meeting with Dr. Rice, my TTU faculty professor, to establish the accelerated timeline for deliverables.
2. I conducted an audit of my existing undergraduate portfolio to identify key artifacts suitable for duplication in this new context.
3. I categorized my selected artifacts, aligning them with overarching themes that reflect their core strengths and relevance.
4. I launched a fresh WordPress installation, imported the selected artifacts, and began designing the theme and navigation structure.
5. During the publishing process, I revised artifact titles, descriptions, and visual elements to ensure they were academically appropriate while maintaining simplicity. Special attention was given to aligning with methodologies and technical rhetoric.
6. I integrated a home-page tour to guide my professors through the design rationale, allowing them to explore key aspects even in my absence.
7. I solicited peer feedback to audit the site for broken links or errors, ensuring a polished final presentation.
8. After dedicating just under 70 hours to refining and preparing the online portfolio, I completed it for final submission.
Applied Theories & Methods
Information Design: I strategically reorganized content to reduce cognitive load, ensuring that critical information was prominently placed and easily accessible. This approach prioritized clarity and facilitated smoother user navigation.
Gestalt Principles: By applying the Grouping Principle from Gestalt theory, I organized the artifacts into columns of three. This structure enhances users’ ability to process and recall information, improving both the visual appeal and functionality of the layout.
Universal Design Theory: I embedded accessible design principles throughout the homepage, making it inclusive and navigable for users with varying abilities. This ensured that the design could be experienced equitably by a diverse audience.
Multimodality Theory: Recognizing the diverse preferences of my audience—whether for reading, listening, or visual content—I integrated a variety of formats, including technical writing samples, videos, audio files, and imagery. This multimodal approach engaged users through multiple channels, simplifying complex technical content.
Plain Language Theory: Every project and written element was crafted to present technical information in an easily comprehensible way. By prioritizing concise, relatable language, I aimed to meet my audience’s needs and underscore the essence of technical communication: making complex information accessible and clear.
The Solution
In response to the requirements of my MATC Capstone, I re-envisioned my undergraduate portfolio to reflect a more advanced and professional standard of technical communication. This portfolio not only demonstrates my academic growth but also applies theories and methodologies integral to the field. By synthesizing feedback, revising existing artifacts, and incorporating new theoretical frameworks, I ensured that the portfolio met both academic and professional expectations.
- Synthesis of Revision: I applied critical feedback to each artifact, revising them to better align with professional communication practices and organizing the content to enhance clarity and usability.
- Application of Theories: Throughout the design process, I integrated Gestalt Principles, Multimodality Theory, Universal Design Theory, and Plain Language Theory to reduce cognitive load, ensure accessibility, and present technical information in easily digestible formats.
- Use of Technology: Leveraging WordPress as a platform, I incorporated multimedia elements such as videos, audio files, and visual assets to enhance engagement. This reflects my ability to work across various communication technologies and media formats.
- User-Centered Design: I structured the navigation with a user-centered approach, ensuring that the content flows logically and that visitors can easily access and process information. The addition of a home-page tour provides insight into my design rationale, even when I’m not presenting in real-time.
- Inclusivity and Accessibility: By embedding Universal Design principles, I made the portfolio accessible to users of varying abilities, demonstrating sensitivity to ethical and professional standards in technical communication.
The result is a refined, professional portfolio that not only showcases my ability to engage with advanced theories and tools but also positions me for success in the technical communication industry or future academic research.