Inforgraphic: A History of Music Playback Technologies

Even in your own lifetime, the ways people listen to music have radically changed. Technology that was once bulky and cumbersome (e.g. the Discman) has evolved into that which is sleek and accessible. It's easy to take for granted the almost unlimited access we have to music today. And it is also easy to forget that it hasn't always been this way. For this assignment, you will create an infographic illustrating the development of music playback technology from the 19th century to today—and beyond. Which technologies you choose to highlight is up to you, but strive provide a comprehensive view of the advancements in this field. Also, you are responsible for whatever sources utilized in your infographic. And just as in traditional essays, you will require a thesis to guide your design.

Some points to consider:

• The next wave: Consider the implications of the next wave of technology. For example, was the next technological advancement merely an incremental or did it represent a fundamental shift?
• The retail angle: You might consider how and where music is (or was) purchased. What is the relationship between musical recording technology and the ways in which we purchase music—or don't?
• Portability: Think about all the places we can and do listen to music. Does technology allow us to take music into places that were previously difficult or impossible?
• Continued issues: What issues has current technology still failed to address? What are potential areas of growth for new technologies (e.g. high-res audio)? 

To create your infographic, you may utilize any one of the following programs:

• Easel.ly
• Infogr.am
• Piktochart
• Visual.ly
• PowerPoint
• Keynote

Requirements:

• Ten sources minimum (cited using MLA's parenthetical citation method)
• Include a works cited page

A well-executed infographic will:

• Have a title that articulates the goal of the assignment
• Have a concise thesis embedded in the subheading
• Visually translate perspectives and facts in a clear and enlightening manner
• Stay within the parameters of the development of music playback technology
• Cite sources using MLA's parenthetical citation method (as would be done in a traditional essay)

Due: DRAFT 1 (BRING THREE COPIES)—SEC. 03 & 23—WE 10.02; Sec. 86—TU 09.29; FINAL DRAFT(ATTACH DRAFT 1 TO BACK)*—SEC. 03 & 23—MO 10.07; Sec. 86—TU 10.08

*For up to five points extra credit: Please attach a one paragraph summary of your experience completing this assignment. Have you ever done anything like this before? What were the most challenging parts? What were the least challenging aspects? What changes would you recommend for me in the future? What should stay the same? Finally, which program worked best for you?