In 2008, I read both of Jeffrey Zeldman’s Designing with Web Standards. Zeldman's books changed the course of my career. At Elon, I began my journey in the field of interactive media. I read everything I could and with that knowledge I tested new ideas and explored cutting-edge technology.
Graduate and Undergraduate
Interactive Media Bootcamp three day intensive workshop covering HTML & CSS and a deep-dive focusing on web standards; each student created a microsite for their final project
Motion Graphics co-taught a video post-production course using After Effects
Introduction to Digital Media a digital media course for first year undergradtuate students covering introductions to storytelling, design, photoshop, photography, and video
SXSW Interactive Competition *see more about this course below
After attending the SXSW Interactive Conference in 2010, I knew when I returned to Elon I had to figure out a way to get the students involved. To that end, I wrote a proposal and pitched the “SXSW Student Competition." There were two driving factors:
SXSW 2011 Logo
SXSW Recap from the Conference
While working in the iMedia program, I pursued my passion for technology. I was able to experiment with cutting-edge software and hardware. I assisted students and lead many multimedia projects for the iMedia program.
Following my workshop covering emerging technology, a student built a Raspberry Pi powered photobooth that posted photos through a Facebook feed. This project paved the way for future IoT projects.
I was tasked with writing a proposal for a touchscreen. I conducted research and shared the proposal with leadeship.
My experience working in the iMedia program and at Elon was transformative for my career as a designer and leader. The friendships I made have endured and my network of industry professionals continues to expand because of my time with the program. Teaching is like rocket fuel for leveling up your UX design skills. Learning new technology, conducting workshops, and exploring human-computer interaction were all part of my Elon iMedia experience.
Say Hello!
b.berkner@gmail.com