Inspiration mapping

I have now determined how I got the last few photos uploaded on to my Blog using Picasa!
The diagram is a basic description of generally available operating systems related to certain types of PC platforms. It is obviously a simple chart but reasonably clear.

Christmas 2008

Picture has nothing to do with EME 2040 content but I uploaded it in class and do not remember how except that I did not use the standard Blog method. I do remember that I was supposed to say something about the photo. Obviously we are looking at Christmas morning. Son, his daughter and my youngest grandson are the subjects. Fun was had by all.

Software applications of value to students

Base of student software knowledge for success in the workplace.

There are a few software products that are almost critical to be able use effectively to be successful in the modern workplace. At the top of the list is a word processing capability. Today’s word processing programs are so robust that if learned in depth, you would be able to not just word process but also create and integrate everything from basic web site design to extensive mailing lists and customer oriented products. Most word processing programs incorporate similar user command and key stroke processes. Learning one software suite will lend itself to basic familiarity with other software suites for word processing. I suspect the most common is the Microsoft suite which also can include a database and professional presentation programs. For most students the presentation program will be more useful initially but in time understanding a database program will become important and possibly more used in most business settings.

Determining two additional programs of most worth becomes a bit more difficult. Publishing and web design will benefit the entrepreneur and independent sort. Music or movie editing will challenge the more creative. Programs to actually code and create games and commercial software would give students a jump start on actual employment directly related to computers. I think for any student with an inclination to pursue an interest in computers it would be useful to actually learn how to code. Finally, digital communication in all forms is coming closer to reality. Software that integrates digital streaming media, alerts, news, publishing, voice recognition etc.. with the first three programs would be ideal. It has to be out there somewhere!

EME 2040 Educational Issues

I have always felt that cell phones should be allowed in class subject to defined class rules and etiquette. The issues regarding felonious use or use specifically counter to global good school discipline should be dealt with at that level. Students that facilitate or instigate egregious activities via the use of cell phones on campus probably do not belong on that campus and should be offered an environment more conducive to their level of personal comportment. Serious violations of law and good order should be dealt with seriously and harshly. With the significant expansion of cell phone technology and capability I can see how cell phones would become superb resources within any classroom setting. I hate to be interrupted as does any teacher/professor but any professor who thinks that students hang on every word for a full 45 minute lecture is delusional. I can think of several ways to involve students through the use of cell phones that would be useful and fun, especially if the phone has web capability. It would be much less expensive and take less space than desk tops. You can even have your class outside of the classroom. I could have quizzes texted to me!
My next beef is with censorship. There are several world famous museums that are not accessible (censored) via the SCPS internet. As a Spanish teacher I would like to bring these resources to my class. I have traveled the world and been able to enjoy first hand these works of art. Many of my students have not been more than 200 miles away from home and the prospect of world travel is not yet a dream, but it could be if given opportunity to explore.