SciFest bootcamp - conclusions

SciFest has come to an end, leaving me with a lot to consider. I faced frustrations getting used to problematic equipment and programs, learnt the complexities of multi-tasking at events and the sleep-deprivation dealing with a lengthy production process. Some of what happened was out of my control, while other problems that arose were due to lack of planning or other faults on my part.

Elements out of my control included things like: sound recording equipment not working, PhotoStory program giving issues marrying sound and photos, and individuals not getting back to me with regard to planned interviews.

I could have improved by having more forward planning around stories. I felt my SciKidz photo story was well-planned but my climate story became too long and text heavy because i got too bogged down in the large quantity of information instead of planning and sticking to a focus. Secondly, i failed in the group work process, and worked primarily alone. This was not really what the SciFest coverage experience was supposed to be about.

All the negative points aside, SciFest gave me great insight into the multi-media production process and what is required in terms of quality and content of stories. This experience, while throwing us in the deep end, showed us what covering 'real-life' stories in a new media format involves and thus prepared us for the work in the coming terms. I feel enriched by the knowledge gained during the process and now feel better prepared for up-coming events such as the National Arts Festival next term.

Thank you to Jude for persevering, staying many a late night in the lab with us and being a pedantic pain! No really, thank you - i learnt more in one week than i thought i'd learn in a couple of months.