Reflection Overview
This week class primarily consisted of peer teaching of web-based tools as well as the submission of a final project proposal. Said tools consisted primarily of Aphantasia, along with peer-assisted tools demonstrated through teaching exercises.
Magic 8-Ball Function
Having preliminary knowledge of Python through previous computer science classes under the language of Python, I chose a standardized approach to creating this function. Given an input (a question), the imported random function picks a random item in a list (the answers) to print. I found this to be the easiest way to achieve the desired result.
A screenshot of the code used for my 8-ball Python program
Aphantasia
A collection of text-to-image based tools, Aphantasia generates highly detailed and varied imagery through the mesh of algorithmic Google Searches using provided keywords. The software was constructed by eps696 using Python and distributed open-source through GitHub. the software is executable through Google Colab, being how I ran the program for peer teaching.
However, as I experienced through my peer teaching exercise, the lack of a dedicated graphics card (of which Google Colab distributes on a random basis for free users) made the program non-executable at times. In those instances where the software did run, I was able to produce a series of images pertaining to class discussed topics such as the metaverse, virtual communities, algorithms, and censorship.
A Portrayal of Mental Illness
When discussing algorithms, it’s interesting to see how said algorithms portray those concepts that are subjective to each individual. I attempted to generate images based on the keywords “happiness” and “sadness,” but found the results to be rather underwhelming.
These emotions are rather surface level though, and I thus decided to see what image the software would construct to represent mental illness. Those illnesses focused upon are Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Schizophrenia, and PTSD. The results are rather disturbing, but demonstrate the horror associated with each disorder.
Final Project Proposal
Through the creation of my “Final Project Proposal,” I have hence decided upon making a video essay (or series of video essays) in which a specific topic related to video-games is discussed.
I have considered discussing video-game color palettes as a tentative idea for my project, describing how said color palettes correspond with themes. This would be completed using Zach Whalen’s web-based barcode generator, Imj. Long-plays of games would be used to allow for the most accurate sample of 9999 possible frames that Imj allows. Websites such as coolors.co, featured in this week’s first peer teaching session, can assist in assessing the overarching color pallettes in a variety of games.
8 Week Reflection
It has come time to reflect upon the midway point through the semester. My learning is progressing smoothly, but I would like to complete my weekly summaries quicker and provide more in-depth responses. Features such as “Lambda Discoveries” require extra commitment, of which at times isn’t added until after the article is originally posted and turned in. Having a clear focus on time-management will assist in producing my final project, as such a time commitment needs to be handled with ease and care to allow for a successful product.