Blog Post 3

Chapter 4 consisted of all of the devices involved with computer work. I have used many of these devices before, but never considered categorizing the devices. Throughout reading Chapter 4, I learned that input devices are basically instruments that put information into a computer. these devices include, but are not limited to: game controllers, kiosk touch screens, mouse, keyboard, and pen input. The pen is the most intriguing device because i never knew that a simple stylus and PDA fell into a special category. Also, I did not know that they now have pens that track what you write and display it on the computer. That is extremely interesting! Output devices are used to display or store information from the computer. These devices include screens, projectors,and printers. The only confusing art about the Chapter is the different between Audio input and Audio output. I believe that audio input involves sounds put into the computer from other devices whereas audio output is the sound from the computer to speakers. This area is still a little shady! Lastly, media storage. This is my favorite topic in Chapter 4. These devices include all types of disks, memory cards, and jump drives. I enjoyed this portion because I have a large amount of experience from using each of these devices. The most interesting part was to see the breakdown of the (now rarely used) floppy disk. The floppy disk consists of a shutter, a shell, two liners, flexible thin film with magnetic coding, and a metal hub! I have never seen the breakdown of one before! This chapter was interesting and very educational!!
So, I have been taking this Web Programming class. I am surprised at how well I am doing in it so far, but why is it required? I mean, my degree is Secondary Mathematics Education and the class uses Notepad to write webpages!?! When would I ever use that? I can understand the blogging in relation to education, or even using a program to make a webpage, but teachers don't have time to write html code for webpages. Does anyone else have a peculiar class they are required to take for their education degree? It just goes to show that technology is advancing in such a fast speed that teachers are required to enter into fields they never have before. I suppose taking this class is a growing experience though! I am rather proud of the webpages I have written thus far, and may use this for something someday! On the other hand, this Technology course is completely realistic for todays teachers. I am familiar with many of the programs, but it interests me to use them from the teachers end rather than the students end.
Oh so long ago, I was very skilled in Inspiration usage. However, I had not used the program since I was in 4th grade! That was nearly ten years ago...so I did need some refreshing. once i opened the program, I remembered how to use it, but I never had a detailed history about different maps. I enjoyed that part of class because we got a background to what we were going to apply to teaching. In fact, this program is extremely useful in the Mathematics department, so I might even be using parts of that background lesson someday. Also, I enjoyed making links to webpages and using the pictures. This program is extremely create, innovative, and yet educational. All of the greats in one! I look forward to future assignments, lectures, and discussions in the class.