Throughout the self-directed learning for Creative Studio, I have found sources of teaching that have started to become firm favourites and some that are beginning to build new learning habits on a daily basis. With each channel having its own benefits such as professional ones from LinkedIn Learning, I reflected specifically on this learning channel in an earlier blog post here, and some using gamification techniques to keep the user entertained and motivated to use the channel every day. One such channel being Mimo, a mobile application that uses bite-sized interactive lessons on various areas of coding.
Having learning channels available on my mobile phone ensures that self-directed learning is efficient and easy to undertake through various areas of my day, especially areas where I have nothing else to do, for example on a train journey to and from my daily job or whilst awaiting the kettle to boil at home. Using applications such as Mimo allows for a sort of habit to form, one that not only benefits my growth and my knowledge of the coding subject/field but also forms a healthy habit, one that is not surrounded by social media.
The Mimo application is building a knowledge of other areas of computers language such as HTML and CSS alongside expanding my existing knowledge of Java/Java Script from my earlier experiments and self-directed learning to create screen styles and user interface layouts not only as the main creative response for this module but also to inform the outcomes and direction of the final major project outcomes. Through focused chapters, or rather levels, the desired computer code language is broken down with each computer code being grouped not only by type but also by difficulty. These broken-down areas allow for a sense of accomplishment once the sections and chapters are complete, compelling you to continue the learning journey. Throughout the chapters of HTML Basics, we are guided through the creation of a web page featuring elements such as a headline, copy, creating buttons, stacking elements and creating links. How could this knowledge be used to generate user interface layouts in code editors similar to Those generated in the Processing software? Could this knowledge be used to generate the base outcomes and guidance for desktop or even tablet-based outcomes for the final major project? Could this even form the basis of a self-published website for myself and my professional career going forward?
Gamification plays a large part in the application and the user learning journey through the use of a heart/life system like those used in traditional gaming genres, coins and even a leaderboard. When comparing the two learning platforms, Mimo and LinkedIn Learning, that are forming the basis of my self-directed code studies, there are clear benefits to both platforms and both suit my workflow in different ways. For example, LinkedIn Learning suits my workflow for times in my learning practice where I would like more formal training and content such as seminars and videos. Mimo suits my on-the-go or casual learning practice and allows for my learning to be fulfilled whilst also feeling a slight break from formal studies and tasks that have been completed throughout the day.
I believe going forward, both LinkedIn Learning and Mimo will find a permanent place in my creative practice and my process. Being able to undertake these sessions and develop knowledge in these formats and channels is proving to be of nothing but a benefit to my creative practice and as mentioned earlier, aiding to build positive habits for my practice, process and lifestyle going forward. What other channels and formats may be discovered next?
Mimo. (2017). Mimo: learning coding/programming. [Mobile application software]. (Version 4.75.0). Mimohello GmbH.
Screenshots of my progress within Mimo:
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