Michael Barnett's Blog

Computers and their Role in My Education

mbarnett41 — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 06:01:14 +0000

If used correctly, technology can be a very effective educational tool. Computers have done a few obvious things to improve my schooling experience. The first and foremost being the use of Microsoft Word to write papers. Tools within word, such as spell and grammar check, definitely make being an organized writer a much simpler task. I also thoroughly enjoy when teachers utilize PowerPoint to assist lectures. Although technology can be a very good thing in the education field, I feel that sometimes it can take away from the learning experience. I, for one, am not very tech-savvy. As a result I am finding this completely online course very confusing. I agreed to take the course so it is my cross to bear. I want to learn to use computers more efficiently and at this time I am finding it difficult to learn because of the way this class is setup. I do not understand what we are supposed to be doing. Unfortunately, I think technology is depended on too much sometimes by both students and teachers. Computers should add to the learning experience, not distract or take away from.

My Group

mbarnett41 — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 05:34:51 +0000

As of right now, I have made solid contact with one of the two other members in my group. I have attempted to contact David Barron, but he has yet to respond. I will complete blog #2 as efficiently as I can with my attained information.

1. Michael Barnett

2.Cole Argraves cyargraves@aol.com, David Barron davidbarron3@my.unt.edu

3. Cole’s favorite food is Mexican and mine is Italian

4. As I have mentioned in a previous blog, I admittedly am not exactly a computer genius. I can navigate most windows applications, but my technological knowledge is not extensive. With that said, I would like to gain a substantial amount of knowledge regarding programs such as excel and power point. Obviously I understand that our society somewhat revolves around technological advances. I, for one, do not want to be left in the dark ages of Windows 98. Pending graduation, I intend be a basketball coach, as well as a history teacher, at the high school level. I believe superior skills in these programs will sufficiently improve my value in the teaching field. I understand that skills I achieve from completing this course will prove valuable in the not so distant future. Now if i could only get mom to take a computer class……

5. My Group

Vantage Point

mbarnett41 — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 09:04:42 +0000

I would like to partially retract some of my original post regarding moodle. I originally criticized Moodle because I was comparing it to web programs that were completely educational and stiff. Upon further review, I am now viewing Moodle as it should be; an online community used as social enhancement for the often stiff and dull world of education. If used correctly by all students, Moodle should successfully enhance the learning experience (especially a learning experience in the technology field) for all participants. The blogging and easy communication with peers and professors opens never closing lines of communication that can be utilized throughout the duration of this course. The page still feels a bit disorganized, but with some work it could prove to be a valuable educational tool.

An Attempt to Conform

mbarnett41 — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 08:50:25 +0000

Due to my prior confusion and admitted lack of knowledge of the course, thus resulting in an inadvertent lack of effort, I have not yet found a group to join. I’m actively searching the moodle community for a group. So if any readers would like to lend a helping hand in achieving my goal please feel free. I have nothing against assistance. Seeing as the first week of class ends today and I don not yet have a group, this is my attempt at securing at least partial credit for Blog #2. My name is Michael Barnett and, once again, I have no group members. Due to this fact, my current group consists of well….just me. My email address is mbarnett41@gmail.com and my favorite foods consist of anything on the menu at Subway. No different than Jared from Subway, I am an absolute connoisseur of fine deli sandwiches and I also enjoy the nutritional benefits Subway has to offer.

As I have mentioned in a previous blog, I admittedly am not exactly a computer genius. I can navigate most windows applications, but my technological knowledge is not extensive. With that said, I would like to gain a substantial amount of knowledge regarding programs such as excel and power point. Obviously I understand that our society somewhat revolves around technological advances. I, for one, do not want to be left in the dark ages of Windows 98. Pending graduation, I intend be a basketball coach, as well as a history teacher, at the high school level. I believe superior skills in these programs will sufficiently improve my value in the teaching field. I understand that skills I achieve from completing this course will prove valuable in the not so distant future. Now if i could only get mom to take a computer class……

Exploring Moodle

mbarnett41 — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 04:20:09 +0000

Unfortunately I’m currently finding Moodle to be quite difficult to navigate. I’m hoping my Vespucci-esque navigation skills are only poor because I’ve come accustomed to the simplicity of the blackboard setup. I’m claiming ignorance as my excuse because I’m very confused as to what exactly I’m supposed to be doing. It seems that you’re taking these blog postings as critical analysis and constructive criticism. I’m not the most tech-savvy student, but at this juncture I find moodle eerily similar to blackboard, but far less organized. I’m honestly just frustrated about the premise of this class and confused as to what that premise might be. Especially the idea of a witch hunt in some alternative universe? I’m not being negative, but I am very confused as to how this will improve my knowledge and skills on a computer. I plan on “exploring” moodle further in hopes of finding the information I so desperately seek. I have yet to meet anyone online, but I also have not tried very hard. i would prefer a class that was not completely online, but I will do my best to adapt to moodle and heal the wounds of my current confusion.