I am a first-year at UC Berkeley intending on majoring in Integrative Biology.  I took this course, IDS 110: Introduction to Computers, in Spring ’06 to explore any possibility of going into programming or web development.  Although I enjoyed the class and learned a significant amount of valuable information regarding web design and layout, I decided that I will continue to pursue my interests in the biological field.  Nevertheless, the knowledge I have gained from taking this course has been extremely beneficial, as it is applicable to the real world.

My view of the internet has changed dramatically with the completion of this course.  I do not take the internet – which I use daily, for granted any longer.  I can now understand and appreciate how this extraordinary and essential technological advancement works.  My computer skills have improved dramatically as a result of this course.  I have the ability to create web pages with efficient design and usability.  In addition, I am proficient with Dreamweaver 8.0/MX and learned a substantial amount of HTML, JavaScript and Photoshop.

Project Description

I chose to create my website on “Global Social Collaboration in MMORPGs” because as an avid ex-gamer, I felt that I could personally identify with this topic.  During the time I was playing, I was unaware of the extent of the social collaboration and interaction I was involved in while playing.  Upon gathering information on this particular subject, I realized that I was able to relate with nearly all the research I came across. I have a gained a new appreciation for the game, the relationships I created while playing and the interaction with other cultures, especially the Japanese.  As a result, I have learned a significant amount of knowledge regarding the complex relationships created within these online environments.  Although it was difficult synthesizing the vast amount of information contained in the journals, my perspective and understanding on this issue has broadened dramatically.  By creating this website, I was not only able to apply all the material I learned throughout the semester, but also answer the many inquiries I had on my topic.  I hope that through my website, others may gain a better understanding on this issue as well.

For any questions or comments, please feel free to Contact Me