Course Reflection

Gena Fortenberry

IT 465


July 30, 2010

Course Reflection

I really enjoyed this computer course. I had different expectations when I started this course. I thought this class was going to teach us the basic functions of the most common computer programs that we use as teachers. I learned so many interesting things that I can use when I begin teaching.
Designing the website was the most interesting assignment to me. I have always wanted to know how to design a site. I plan to use a website when I get my own classroom. I also encountered some problems while making my site. The movie assignment was of great interest to me as well. I have always wanted to learn to use this program on my computer. The step by step directions were perfect in teaching me to use the program.
I always knew that professors could tell when students plagiarized but I didn’t know how they did it. This assignment was great. Concept mapping is a great way for students to get a visualization of the new topic or skill. I think I watched the video three times before I got my assignment correct, but once I got the hang of it I really enjoyed it. The program inspiration is a great tool in making concept maps. I scored really well on this assignment.
I did encounter a few problems throughout the semester. Most of the problems were because I skipped a step in the instructions or because of the operating system my computer has. I had to change lots of setting on my computer for the assistive technology assignment. I had to really search and look for the different ways to change the settings. In fact, I still have a setting that I do not know how to change back! Overall I believe that I did well in this class. I learned many tools and operations that will help in my teaching career.
My weak points in this class were the discussions questions and responses. I could not remember to reply and comment on other student’s posts. I read all the comments I just would always tell myself that I would comment later and then I would forget. The interaction between the peers and me was very good and informative. Other than through e mail I talked to several peers on a weekly basis in another face to face class I had. We discussed strategies and assignments and gave each other confidence and tips. We also reminded each other of upcoming assignments. I think this was very helpful to all of us.