My Advice to All Incoming Students

I was really nervous at first to be taking this course, especially since I don’t know too much about computers. But relax! This class isn’t tough at all, as long as you pay attention and keep up with the work. Ms. Belisle is an awesome professor who’s kind and patient so don’t feel bad if you need help. Also, don’t worry too much if you do poorly on an assignment or two. Unlike most college classes, this course includes numerous assignments that, if done correctly and on time, will only boost your grade. Get to know the TA for the class too, because he/she is a big part of your final grade. My best advice to you seems obvious but I stress it nonetheless- Do attend class and Do all the assignments. It is important to get to class, because a lot of the assignments can only be done in the lab and not on your own computer. The assignments that are meant to be done on your computer are great practice for the exams. Just remember that.
Good Luck and Don’t Sweat It!

My Top Website Picks

Unfortunately I was unable to attend class and see the website presentations first-hand, but I was happy to see the other blog postings with website links at the bottom. Not everyone had completed his/her blogs when I made mine, but I think I saw a fair amount to make my judgments. It was exciting to see them and how everyone used their own personalities and creativity to create their websites. Everyone did a fantastic job! It was hard to pick just three top products, but by the end, I chose Adam, Tash, and Jen for their unique and interesting websites. Adam’s website had a very clean, professional look and was very easy to navigate. I thought his pictures showed off his personality and were funny, and I also thought his image map was very well done. But my favorite part was definitely his interests page, where Adam included thumbnails to his graphic art gallery. I really really enjoyed that. He has a real talent I might add. Tash did a wonderful job too. My favorite part of her website was her home page with the moving animation that included three pictures of her. I’m not sure if I would be able to create one for myself. I also loved her travel page (especially the picture of Tash holding a Koala!) and the work she did with other photographs to give them interesting effects. Lastly, I thought Jen had a unique home page that told the viewer all the things she was interested in accomplishing in her life. I liked the Glacier National Park page for its map and many thumbnails, and I also enjoyed her postcard of Austin. Reading some of her entries and comments made me laugh too. The thing I liked most about her website, though, was her use of page transitions. It was the only site I saw that used cool effects like fading out and granulizing to move from page to page. I would love to show off my website too, but at this time it is currently unpublished and unavailable. Once I get that figured out, I will definitely attach the link in a new post.

The Importance of HTML

HTML coding brings me back to days as a high school student in advanced computer science. Honestly, I chose this class because it was the only weighted technology course I could take, as I was required to take at least one computer-related class. What I didn’t realize was how difficult the class would be. No, I did not walk away with a new-found love for C++, nor do I think the skills I obtained in that class will ever help me again. What I did discover, however, was an appreciation for the people who do enjoy computer coding and those who create the everyday programs we all know and love. Never before had I realized how complicated computer language could be. That being said, I am eternally grateful for the Microsoft Expression Web program; I’m not sure I could survive another lesson in online coding. But I know there are many other people out there who live for HTML and other codes, and even with the aid of advanced software, still chose to memorize every individual number and character for its function and use them together to tinker with future creations. HTML specifically builds internet web pages. I, for one, can really appreciate all the hard work a designer using HTML puts into his site; I really do know how amazingly complex it all is. Though it might seem easier to use Microsoft Expression or others like it for simple web designs, it is important that the pros still know and understand the HTML language. The software programs can only help one for so long, though after awhile, the limitations of that program would soon be noticed. For instance, font color and style has apparently been difficult to work with in Microsoft Expression. It of course isn’t impossible to do this via Expression, but things become increasingly difficult if it is only a small piece of data you want to change. As far as it can work, software programs similar to these can only function the way the designers of them think you’d want it to function. But because there are infinite possibilities in computer design, a software program cannot keep up. This is where knowing the language of computers is a major tool to know. A person working with codes has complete control over the computer and his tasks. Therefore, he is more independent of his predecessors and better able to personally customize the details he wants unique. HTML ultimately opens up doors to possibilities never imagined by the confines of Microsoft Expression. Though I understand the importance of Expression, (the average individual could never build a web page without it) I honestly believe that the true computer expert ought to know the basics. While the rest of us can rely on computer software, it is these experts who must learn and practice the computer’s own language, and hopefully continue to produce more programs, all based on HTML of course, to further advance the technological world.

Power Point Evaulation

I was unfortunately absent the day my peers presented their marvelous power points, though I’m sure I would have rather enjoyed viewing them. I tried to look at other people’s blogs for links to their power points but was then informed that it would not work. I hope to see some soon, as I’ve heard they were quite good. The only one I was able to see was my suitemate Tash’s presentation, so my evaluation will be solely on hers. I was really impressed from what I saw and found it interesting to learn more about the Harpy Eagle. Her power point was very informative and had an overall professional feel. I especially liked the background she chose and the images she included- they all added to the effect of how sad it is to have these beautiful birds on the verge of extinction. The animated butterfly and animal paw, along with the movement of the text gave a moving/emotional touch to the presentation. I liked the quote she used for the ending slide too. I was able to see the notes she had written in the space below the slides, and it seemed like she was very well prepared. I’m positive she gave a great presentation. I’m also certain that the rest of my class did very well too. My power point has yet to be completed, but the presentation I am working on discusses Pierre Fauchard, the father of Modern Dentistry. I am eager for the day I can share it with my classmates.

Searching the Internet

Due to personal health reasons, I was unable to attend many of the recent computer skills classes, including one where a Mr. Chris Nolan came to speak about searching the internet. I was able to obtain notes, however, on his presentation and after reading through them, have made some interesting discoveries. For one thing, I always knew Google was one of the most popular search engines, (it’s my internet home page), but I never knew that it was actually a better source to search because it uses a method to rank the hits by relevance. This surprised me because I always assumed other search engines like Yahoo! were just as good, if not better than Google. But with all the great benefits Google has to offer, Mr. Nolan made sure to point out its downside too. He explained that Google gains all its profit from selling advertising space. Because of this, Google orders its results by popularity and/or the amount of money received for advertisements. Therefore, the first few search results can be poorly accredited sources that simply reflect financial profits instead of the available scholarly sites. Outside of acquiring basic information on Google, I was glad to also learn about directories, Google Scholar, the ‘define’ tool, the advanced search, and cached links. I also learned how to put words in the search bar in specific orders and what additions to include (minus sign, quotation marks) to make my searches more efficient. It was useful, too, to be reminded about all the non-credible websites out there. I’m appreciative that Mr. Nolan gave so many tips on how to avoid those sources. Because of his presentation, I should have better luck in the future when beginning research assignments. I am proud that I now know how to search the internet and use it to its fullest potential.

Power Point Presentations

The articles were very interesting to read and really did help me out a lot. Though the information they gave seemed somewhat obvious, I didn’t realize just how significant an influence a good (or bad) presentation can have on one’s audience. I was intrigued by the research done on the color schemes and how to most effectively use them. I also thought it was a good point made when one article reminded me how the audience cannot read the slides and listen to the narrator at the same time without missing out on something. I’m glad these articles were here to teach me. I always knew how to make a power point, but now I know how to use them to their fullest potential. I wish some of my professors would consider what was said in these articles, since many of their power point presentations are weak and sometimes even get on my nerves. The worst is when a professor overloads a slide with too much information or uses too many images and animations that it actually detracts from the valuable information. My biggest pet peeve, however, is when a professor just stands there and reads from the slides as if they were a script. I rarely take anything away from those lectures. Because of these annoyances and the inspiration from the articles, I have created a short list of my Best Power Point Presentation Tips for my peers to read and share. Hopefully this helps someone.

5. Make sure that your power point is easy to understand and follow. Your audience won’t be able to process the slides if the font size isn’t legible or if the font color blends into the background.

4. Avoid using “cheesy” cartoons and clipart from Microsoft Word. These images have been seen again and again. Instead, upload your own photographs to add a professional appeal. Graphs are also ideal for easily comparing groups of data.

3. It is very important that your slides connect to each other and have a uniform look throughout. Microsoft Word has saved a set of templates and themes to help you with this.

2. Avoid distracters that can take away from your presentation. DO be sure to make your slides interesting, but DO NOT go overboard. Simplicity and plenty of “white space” is a good thing. The text is usually the most important factor for the audience to digest, so limit complicated backgrounds and overwhelmingly large images.

And the number one tip I have to share with you is…

1. Remember that a power point is a visual aid- and just that. It is there to support the narrator’s words, so don’t simply have the slides repeat what is said, and whatever you do, never just read straight from the slides. You will quickly lose interest from your audience. Turn the screen off while talking if necessary: just make sure the audience’s attention is on YOU.

My Experiences with Excel

I remember filling out a job application once and being asked if I had any special knowledge/expertise in some particular computer areas, Excel included. At the time I wondered why it was really even that big a deal, but now I am starting to understand. I have never been that great with computers, but I figured I could get by. Now that I know that’s no longer good enough, (I did fail that computer skills exam after all) I’m glad to be receiving this chance to better my skills. I always had the basic idea of Excel and could manage it whenever I needed to. This class, however, is finally revealing to me exactly how complicated Excel can be and how to finally tackle it in the most efficient way. Because of the true-to-life examples we’ve had in class, I now know how Excel can help in making spreadsheets, an important process for collecting data together and analyzing it. Teachers, for instance, can use Excel to enter in student grades, while the average individual can update their finances and income statements via Excel. Excel is also useful because of its ability to perform mathematical calculations with ease and create graphs and tables with a simple click of the button. Already, I am using Excel quite frequently in my Biology Lab, since it requires a number of statistical analysis. Once data and observations are collected, my lab partners and I can enter the information in Excel and figure the results right away. My group is always one of the first done with our in-class assignments, and I can thank Excel, and my new-found knowledge of it, for speeding up a normally complicated process.

Photography Manipulation

Of all the pictures available to choose from, I ended up picking the very last photograph of Clement Hurd, the author of the children’s classic, Goodnight Moon. It was ironic for me to see this, because just two days ago, I saw this very picture on a TV game show I was watching with my parents. Goodnight Moon was one of my favorite books as a kid, so when the question was asked about which author’s photo had been digitally altered on his book’s dust jacket, I immediately eliminated Hurd as one of the four possibilities. But sure enough, I was proven wrong. I rushed to my room where I knew the book would be somewhere and when found, was shocked to see Hurd there, a smoking cigarette in his hand. (I have the older version.) The picture was originally taken, probably a candid by a non-professional photographer, and used to represent Hurd as the author who wrote and illustrated the famous story that has preceded perhaps millions of children’s bedtimes. After the picture comes a short passage on Hurd’s life and accomplishments- a typical “About the Author” addition to most books. For its 60th anniversary, the original publisher of Goodnight Moon reprinted the book in mass produce but also digitally removed the cigarette in Hurd’s hand. The fact that Hurd was holding a cigarette the first time around never attracted any controversy, most likely because, at the time, smoking was a completely acceptable habit. But in today’s times, many anti-smoking advocates are determined to wipe out such images and allusions, especially in this case of a classic children’s book, to prevent any encouragement to actually start smoking. I completely understand why the publishing company felt the need, and perhaps, the responsibility to remove the cigarette from Hurd’s hand. I honestly can’t remember seeing another dust jacket where the author on it was smoking, especially one on a children’s book. Even though it is not a major focal point of the book, the publisher, I’m sure, still doesn’t want to provide a possible interest in young people to start smoking. On the other hand, I also think this new, altered form of the photograph is not a true representation of the author it portrays. Now the picture depicts Hurd standing with his hand raised in the air, giving the idea that he might be reaching out for something. In my opinion, I believe the publishing company should have to ask Hurd for permission to alter his picture, but this could not be done because Hurd has since passed away. His son was then asked for permission and originally balked. He said later that he felt pressured by the publishing company to allow the alteration and only gave away the photograph’s rights half-heartedly. In a way, it makes me sad that the publishing company is so worried about the public’s reaction to such a photo, and rightfully so, that it felt the need to manipulate the photograph. To me, it only depicts a cheerfully smiling man on the back cover of an amazing bedtime story- I wouldn’t even notice the cigarette. Overall, I have mixed feelings about the changes made to the picture and don’t really know if it did more harm than good or more good than harm. I do understand, however, the both viewpoints on the issue.

The Center for Learning and Technology

When I first walked into the CLT, I was immediately overwhelmed. Luckily, a willing staff member was available to lend a hand. Though the entire center consists of a very large, open room, and is hard to miss, very few students on campus are even aware of its existence. The CLT (also known as the AT&T Center) is located on the Garden Level of the Coates Library and possesses the absolute latest and greatest technology and accompanying software. There are many many stations with many many computers provided to all for use and several classrooms where student groups and faculty alike can gather in privacy. The computers there consist of both Macs and PCs, so everyone can work on something he/she is familiar with, and all are equipped with the most up-to-date programs, such as Adobe and Photoshop. There are giant plasma screens for one’s viewing pleasure (of course educational too), and tutorials and reference books to help guide newbies through this amazing facility. Also, scanners and laser printers are abundant, so a print job shouldn’t be too much of a problem and lines to use the machinery are almost unavoidable. Most of the technology is way over my head, especially the synthesizing and editing services, but just knowing that I can always come to work on anything dealing with audio or media projects comforts me. There is always someone available to help anyway. One of the coolest rooms I saw was the Video Studio Theater, a room set up like a movie or television set for filming what I’m sure are to be great masterpieces. Trinity’s famous TriniTV and TigerTV productions are also housed and worked upon there in the CLT. Though I doubt I will be spending much time in the CLT, I was highly impressed by the center and its services.

Copyright Laws

The very first copyright laws came into existence in the late 1700s and have been of great importance to American society ever since. Copyright is actually a HUGE issue that the government must deal with on a regular basis, a concern caused especially by college-aged students. Four percent of all illegal file-sharing occurs on university campuses nationwide, forcing extra surveillance on the youths involved. Luckily, I am fairly ignorant of any new technology that attempts to help people get around copyright laws, which always almost fail anyway. Therefore, I am not worried about breaking any laws- but many of my closest friends engage in such illegal activity all the time. Part of this phenomenon is due in part to a general lack of information. What exactly is copyright? To quote Diane Graves, copyright infringement simply refers to an individual making use of, or “copying” another’s work, whether it be a piece of writing, art or other relating medium, without proper permission. This idea can be quite ambiguous and confusing and so reinforces advice to stay on the safe side of the law. If it is obviously illegal, then of course one should not participate in the sharing of files. If an individual is unsure about the legality of a particular protected work, it is probably best to assume a dangerous consequence and avoid doing whatever it is all together. In my opinion, the work it takes to download files legally is far less a hassle than to be working illegally. Even if one thinks they are cheating the system, he/she should be aware that the government is always checking up on new technology programs that may allow a user to skirt around the law; basically, a person at any point may be caught red-handed when that same system he/she was trying to dupe figures out what is really going on. So don’t be dumb- do the right thing and obey copyright laws. The punishment for copyright infringement is quite severe and may result in an empty wallet or at best, a bad reputation. Everyone should familiarize themselves with such laws, so they know what activities are safe and what activities should be stopped immediately. I really do understand why some think file sharing is the better option. (You can save money and download files with more ease.) But just because an individual may be lazy or cheap doesn’t mean he/she is not subject to following the law. If the activity you are about to embark on/involve yourself in is otherwise unaffordable or too much of a irritation, then just limit yourself and back out while you can. The risks in violating copyright laws far out-weigh the costs. Trust your instincts- if something seems wrong, then it is better to play it safe than sorry.

Trinity's Wireless Campus

I’m ashamed to admit that I originally thought almost any university campus across the United States had a wireless facility like Trinity’s. I guess I was taking things for granted though, when a friend from another college complained recently about how he couldn’t leave his room with his laptop, because the only internet connection available there is through an Ethernet cable. Now I know how lucky I am to be attending a university that’s ranked in the Top 10 Wireless Campuses. Normally I do keep my computer in my room hooked into all its wires, but I occasionally like to take it outside on a day with beautiful weather or if my neighbors are being too noisy. The internet is such a huge part of my life here; I don’t know what I’d do without WiFi. I usually check my Trinity email, my personal email, and Facebook several times a day and am pleased with the amazingly fast connection speed. I also check the news, do all sorts of research through Google, and read articles on Wikipedia- though everyone says it’s an unreliable source. Of course doing my homework assignments and studying is greatly enhanced through the wireless network. I’d say I spend 50% of my time on academic-related surfing and 50% on social/entertaining websites. Those sites can be distracting sometimes, but having wireless internet for absolutely ANYTHING I need is a way more important factor. Just the other day, I was sitting in my friend’s dorm, IM-ing with another friend, connecting to my professor’s webpage, and looking at the most recent developments on Facebook. That way, I was able to do all my work on the computer and still watch the season premiere of “House” with my friend. I am also grateful for the ITS at the Witt Center, since I am not very tech-savvy and am able to unhook my laptop and carry it to the “computer hospital”. I am now considering taking my computer to my biology class, since the conventional method of taking hand-written notes seem to be somewhat out-dated. All of these aspects of working with my computer wouldn’t be possible without Trinity’s wonderful establishment of a wireless campus. Here is a link that can help you learn more about wireless networks on other college campuses: http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2006-10-02-gennext-tech_x.htm

All About Me

Hello!
My name is Danielle Fisher and this is my first blog- aside from facebook of course. I am currently a first year student at Trinity University in San Antonio, but I am originally from Colleyville, Texas. (It's about 20 minutes from Dallas for those of you who are not familiar with "C-Ville".) I was highly involved in volunteering in high school and also ran varsity cross country and track, though I don't plan on continuing those sports in college; there is simply not enough time in the day, as I intend on majoring in biology. I may join a sorority later on, but my main priority now revolves around academics. Outside of working with general programs such as Microsoft Word and surfing the Internet, my knowledge in computers is unfortunately rather limited. I took a Computer Science class my senior year of high school and barely escaped with an A-; programming with C++ is not my forte. I do have high hopes for this class, however, as I really would like to figure this technology thing out. :)

Yours,
Danielle
dfisher1@trinity.edu