Day Four: 12/20

Photo credit: audacitytutorials.webs.com

Today I had a good time in class. We were introduced to Audacity and learned how to create an audio recording. I enjoyed the project we were able to create and the fact that this is a practical way I could use within my professional endeavors.  Also, I enjoyed the different programs that were mentioned that could help us throughout our journies at LU. Overall, I will be researching more in depth to see which I could use within my business and education.

Day Three: 12/19



Photo credit: emeraldinsight.com

Today was an interesting day in class. We were introduced to WebQuest and tasked to create a project for the class. I found WebQuest to be easy, once the instructions were given. As we were going over the sample WebQuest pages, I found that I have done something similar. In the past I have created an instructor's manual that required very explict details. With this program and website, I saw great significance to the type of work I have already completed and plan on completing in the future. Another theme in the class was the qualitative software presented. I enjoyed this part of the class because I will be preparing to work on my dissertation and will need assistance from programs such as, ATLAS. ti 5 and QSR NVIVO 7.

Day Two: 12/18

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In class today I was very excited about learning different technology available. Also, I liked the different topics we went over; we had several assignments. The first assignment I thought was very helpful; I enjoyed creating the instructional video. I loved being introduced to new software (Camstudio recorder) that was very practical and simple to use in and out of the classroom.

One of the next assignments we did in class was with Access. In the past, I never used this program, but I thought that the information provided in learning how to use it was very helpful. In the end, though, although I was grateful to explore and open my mind to other software, I did not see a great benefit between it and Excel. I personally have used this software (Excel) for many years and very savvy with the program, so I would be more prone to use this to create spreadsheets, etc.. In the end, though, I was very satisfied with its capabilities offered. I think that the professor giving us this new option was worthwhile and I will use it to create databases for my youth groups, etc.

Sidenote: The internet kept going down and it made it extremely difficult for us to upload our instructional video, so it made it very frustrating to complete our project.

Day One: 12/17

photo credit: google images

Today in class we were introduced and reacquainted to various programs and sites that could assist us over the duration of our EdD career. For me, I was very excited about this opportunity to learn of the new sites. We spoke about Wikispace, Endnote, WebQuest, Edmoto, Smart exchange and a host of new resources I have not heard of. In the end, I thoroughly enjoyed the EndNote program that was offered to students. Typically, when I'm writing a paper, the most monotonous task is the reference page and citing sources. With this program, it showed me that I could complete my work in a timely manner and not be bogged down at the end asking myself, "did I forget to put this quote in there?" I am pleasantly surprised that I can use this program, along with Google scholar, EBSCO and Microsoft Word, to assist me with my papers. I am confident that when it is time to begin my dissertation, I will be well equipped to finish my paper in a stress free manner (in regards to the citations).

Technology

Photo credit: etftrends.com

As we (humans) have grown in knowledge and skill, we have progressed in how we think, interact and ultimately exist. As we continue to do so, we will see tremendous efforts blossom. Understanding technology, there are numerous pros and cons that follow. One great thing about technology, as there were countries that could not "compete" on a global scale with various countries who had the ability, technology has stepped in and created a level playing field. Even more, while bridging economic gaps, it has also allowed others to conduct business on a global scale. As with anything, though, there are cons that have the potential to surface. What I'm finding with technology is that crime has risen. With a wealth of information at your fingertips, it is easy for one to commit crimes and abuse the systems set in place to protect or create opportunities. Overall, my general thoughts on technology is that it has evolved tremendously; there is no signs of slowing down. I enjoy seeing the progress we have made and openly embrace new technological advances that assist me in daily living. On the flipside, though, I do believe that as we are moving at a steady, brisk pace, we should be cogniscente of what lies ahead (in terms of crime and security.)