This course was a computer applications and resources course for educators. We began by learning about the basics of computer technology, understanding how to maneuver through and opperate a computer. We then moved on to Microsoft word 2007 and its features. Once we were comfortable in that program, we moved on to Microsoft Excel. We were able to understand how this program works, and some different features it offered. Following this tutorial, we learned how to use a web survey program through Google. We put our knowledg to the test by creating a survey to send out. We then created a power point presentation to present our survey results to the class. This allowed us to learn about, and explore Microsoft Power Point. Our last project for class was to create a webquest to use in our classroom. Through this project, we learned how to create our own website and take our students on a learning journey.
During our class time we received direct instruction by the professor, Harrison Yang, who would give us a step-by-step lesson on how to use the program we were learning about. Once the lesson was complete, we would be given an assignement based on it, and then would be given class time to complete it, relying on the professor and our classmates for guidance and advice. Our assignments based on the lesson would typically be due the following class day that we met. We received valuable feedback and could make changes and additions accordingly. I truly enjoyed the class format and found it very useful. I thought that learning from the professor, and having him model, step-by-step the procedures to creating an assignment firs, was very useful. It allowed me to internalize what I learned, and then be able to immediately put it to use. I also appreciated the fact that we were able to look to our classmates for help and advice as well, as they would often have great suggestions. Through this format of learning and practicing, I was able to achieve and come away with a great deal of knowledge as a teacher and a student.
