We discussed how the newer layout features (column options with varying widths, combined with padding and margin control for all objects) are excellent but can also result in considerable time invested in realizing a satisfying layout. Previously I had no interest in duplicating objects; now, I am not only duplicating that content but also its padding and margin settings! This of course leads to page layouts that do have value as templates.
Ability to easily generate a template from a freshly-completed content page
Many templates will be highly personal and of value mainly for the person who created them; the library views should be filterable to show only your own, or maybe browse by person and add something you like to your collection, maybe show the agreed-upon ODL templates, etc.
Tagging a template to indicate what column style (i.e., 2 column narrow and wide) it uses so the you could search for all 2 column layouts in use
When choosing from the column options list, show a schematic icon to preview what you are choosing right there with the menu choice (this should be its own separate issue)
Two kinds of templates: 1) layout, not instructional but purely information delivery and 2) instructional where an instructional strategy is provided
Stray thought: in addition to all this, should new components (added blocks) be generated with default values for padding and margins rather than empty slots? I think they should, as this is a user-friendlier way to start with.
btopro
commented
4 months ago
Location: https://oer.hax.psu.edu/bmr1/sites/haxcellence/
We discussed how the newer layout features (column options with varying widths, combined with padding and margin control for all objects) are excellent but can also result in considerable time invested in realizing a satisfying layout. Previously I had no interest in duplicating objects; now, I am not only duplicating that content but also its padding and margin settings! This of course leads to page layouts that do have value as templates.