Blog 2 - Future of Desktop Computing

The future of desktop computing can go a few different ways. As I looked at the Linux system I began to wonder why I was spending so much money on programs that were free online. I also wondered why I have such an expensive computer when I do virtually nothing on it that does not pertain to the internet. I have come to the conclusion that I do not need a fancy computer. I can spend a very little amount of money on it and still accomplish the same tasks that I do now. All I need is a link to the internet.

I may or may not be the exception to the computer industry. There may be plenty of people out there like me who do not rely on the computer itself but on an internet connection specifically. On the other hand there are more creative and artistic people out there who enjoy music, gaming, and aesthetic programs that allow for creations and design. These people would have a difficult time functioning on a minimal computer.

With that said.... I am not sure where our future lies. Everyday there are more and more programs out there online that are free. The internet is everywhere which makes it easy to access these programs. On the flip side the programs come out as software generally before they make it to the online world. The deciding factor could very well be "can the internet incorporate online programs faster than the companies can produce the software?"

Blog 3- What would I lose?

MY MUSIC! That is it. This is all that I would lose. Not because I do the right thing and backup my computer but because I do not store anything on it. My photos are on an online photo gallery and my important information for work is on a flashdrive. That is all I need. It sadly makes my wonder why I paid so much money for my laptop...

Computer History

I can sit back and specifically remember my first time using a computer. I was in first grade and was writing a story in class. The teacher brought us to the computer lab to type our papers and then print them. We used this new neat form to create our own books. I thought that it was the greatest thing in the world! Up until that day at school I had never even seen or heard of a computer before. Soon after that I was introduced to video games such as Oregon Trail, then to chatting, emailing and the internet itself. Computers went from zero to sixty in a matter of ten years. I can't keep up anymore.

The Light at the End of the Tunnel

Well, well, well, it is finally over. I have to say that this was an extremely long class. I think that the book added to the long feeling however there were high points. All in all I am enjoying the program overall. Louie is a great instructor who is very understanding and knowledgeable. He is also just as enjoyable as Les Nessman. As far as the content is concerned, I feel fulfilled. I think that I learned a lot of useful information regarding spreadsheets, software, and technology in general. I also enjoyed the group work. I think that I got as much out of it as I would have if we all met in person. We were able to collaborate together all in the comfort of our PJ's. Collaboration while comfortable is better than any classroom could ever be!!

Software evaluation... where to begin?

During week five I had the opportiunity to evaluate some software with the help of several tools. Most of the tools had similarities while others had subtle but yet critical differences. Before I had the opportunity to work with these tools I wouldn't have the first clue on how to tackle such a large task. I personally am a very simplistic thinker. . . I would simply "play" with the program and determine if it was interesting, creative, and unique. If I enjoy it then sure it's a go. If not, then "no." This is obviously a very poor way to evaluate instructional software however I will say that the more fun it is the more the students will enjoy themselves. I am also surprised that the evaluation tools did not place much emphasis on creativity. After all, we all try to make learning fun.

In Time or Waste of Time?

The specific video that I pulled up was called "Water Quality in the Greenhills Stream." The video was about a science teacher who used the scientific method to help the students answer a question...who didn't know that? She integrated technology by having the students create a PowerPoint presentation of which they would have to present to the class.
All in all the video was lacking information. The specifics about the content were vague as was the "technology" part of the project. The video primarily covered the process of the scientific method. This information comes second nature to me and does not need to be reinvented. If the video were to focus on the importance that technology played in the project it would have been more useful and insightful for me. Hopefully others had better luck with their pick:)

Oh so Easy Excel

I love Microsoft Excel. It is interesting, organized and very simplistic to use. The problem with Excel is that it is expensive. When I found out that I can do the same stuff on Google Spreadsheets I was thrilled. All of the same features are there that I would normally use from Excel but more importantly I can access it from anywhere as I can my Google Docs. This is a great tool for me to use personally and in the classroom. It would be nice for my students to not only share their ideas but their data from labs as well.