Well, I would have to say that this assignment has been the most challenging for me! Although I have made some headway using HTML and CSS for my three mock-ups, I still have a long way to go.  And this is a good time to mention that I have basically started from scratch when it comes to my website. I am no longer using the Autumn theme in Omeka, and writing the codes without the benefit of a “theme template.” Jeremy and I decided this would be the best option considering my evolving website design.

Looking at my HTML and CSS mock-up pages you can see that I have inserted all of my original layout components, but having difficulty positioning the search box and navigation links on top to span the entire homepage; in addition to figuring out the proper spacing and dimensions as per my “revised” website concept. Also, I haven’t been able to figure out how to get the Colonial Architecture title situated on the background image for each page. Please keep in mind that because of the spacing and the lack of alignment at this point, there is a lot of empty space and random placement of text . I plan to change the blue and purple (automatic colors that I do not want) hyperlinks to match the other existing colors as specified in my wireframe mock-ups; move the (3) photographs over to the right side of athe page along with the text; add a sidebar to the Native American page with the state-recognized tribes and two other ethnic groups; and add a horizontal band of color (gold to match navigation links) to the footer and move  the footer text to the right. I also would like to add a print capability to all of the “Resources” pages.

As I proceeded with my design, I decided to make a few minor changes on my pages that I believe will improve overall website navigation for a more user-freindly approach to teachers, as follows; 1) changed the top navigation links (historical overviews and glossaries, lesson plans, etc.) to reflect the educational resources on architecture; 2) provided the website specific information links (copyright, tools, etc. in the footer only; 3) removed the descriptive paragraphs/text on the three photographs; 4) removed additional lines to make the page less restrictive and confined; 4) eliminated “browse photos” in the navigation links because I have  “primary sources” that will cover photos, maps, artifacts, etc. and it would be redundant.

To say the least, I still have alot of work to do for the final project to resolve the above mentioned issues, as well as fine -tuning my CSS page. I am open to any helpful hints!