Evaluation of the Role of Aesthetics in the Production of Aunthisweek.
ABSTRACT
This research aims to understand the role of aesthetics in the production of electronic newsletters.
In this study, AUN’s weekly newsletter (AUNthisWEEK) was put under the microscope in an attempt to examine the effect some of its design features have on readers. Users are known to patronize that which the find appealing to any of their senses.
The persistent use of familiar design features is likely to bore readers and gradually diminish their numbers. To prevent this, multimedia designers must constantly work to improve the functionality and aesthetics of electronic content.
The standard of design in modern electronic platforms is continuously improving. Because there is competition in the market, these platforms have no choice but to out-design their competitors. However, AUNthisWEEK lacks that competition but still seems to satisfy its readers.
This study intends to use Abraham Maslow’s self-actualization theory as a framework to help explain some of the research questions. A survey will be used to gather data that will be analyzed by simple percentages.
At the end of this study, the aim of answering the research questions will have been met fully.
This study hopes to reveal any blind spots that might be present in how the newsletter uses aesthetics. It will also recommend ways to improve any irregularities that may arise from this study.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER ONE
- Background of the Study
- Statement of the Problem
- Purpose of the Study
- Research Questions
- Significance of the Study
- Scope of the Study
- Limitations of the Study
- Definition of Terms
CHAPTER TWO
- Introduction
- The Evolution of Electronic Publishing
- Common Formats in Electronic Publishing
- Aesthetics and Information Technology
- User Perception of Visual Appeal
- Aesthetics: Implication for Newsletters
- Theoretical Framework
CHAPTER THREE
- Introduction
- Research Design
- Population of the Study
- Sample Size and Procedure
- Description of Data Gathering Instrument
- Method of Data Analysis
CHAPTER FOUR
- Introduction
- Data Presentation and Analysis
- Discussion of Findings
CHAPTER FIVE
- Summary
- Conclusion
- Recommendation
INTRODUCTION
In 2003, the Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar the American University of Nigeria (AUN) with the help of renowned Nigerians and academics from Nigeria and abroad.
Located at the Northeastern state of Adamawa, AUN is rated among the best educational in the country according to the National Universities ranking (2018).
The university prides itself as being Africa’s first Development University with the aim of “pioneering service learning that will leaders who will be equipped with the knowledge to resolve societal concerns”.
Because of questions raised around the quality of education in Nigeria and Africa (UNESCO, 1995), AUN has taken it upon itself to provide the high-grade education that is in low supply.
The university has a clear objective to “prepare the leaders of tomorrow for the challenges on ground and those that are lie ahead in the journey to achieve true excellence”.
Achieving excellence is top priority for AUN. This means that it must strive to always be a step ahead of others in the education sector.
The university values elegance and all things concerning them must carry a seal of uniqueness with it. This elegance greatly affects the multimedia channels the university uses to relay vital information, (AUN Website, 2018).
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