Mickayla McDowell Mickayla McDowell

Makerspaces: How to make learning collaborative

This project explores the development of a library makerspace through both project management and learning design perspectives. Working collaboratively, my team created a comprehensive implementation plan outlining the logistics, structure, and goals of the space. Building on that work, my reflection reimagines the makerspace as an intentional learning environment, focusing on how staff training, user instruction, and instructional materials can support meaningful, accessible, and hands-on learning experiences.

Read More
Mickayla McDowell Mickayla McDowell

Metadata for Superheroes: Designing a MODS Schema for Dark Horse Comics

By designing templates and example records for both creative and administrative materials, I explored how MODS supports nuanced description, rights management, and interrelated content—key needs for a multimedia company. One of the strengths of MODS is its flexibility and XML-based structure, which made it well-suited for handling complex, born-digital and print assets. However, applying MODS outside of a traditional library setting presented challenges, particularly in aligning fields with internal business workflows and proprietary content types. Additionally, balancing descriptive richness with practical implementation required careful judgment to avoid overcomplicating the schema. Overall, this assignment highlighted the strengths and limitations of MODS for corporate archival use and offered insight into adapting bibliographic standards for creative industries.

Read More
Mickayla McDowell Mickayla McDowell

A Look Into Corporate Archives: The Walt Disney Archives

Exploring the Walt Disney Archives
Corporate archives preserve institutional history and support stakeholders. Our group analyzed the Walt Disney Archives, exploring its founding, key policies, preservation strategies, and vast collection of artifacts. This case study highlights how corporate history is safeguarded and shared.

Read More