Oh boy, If I thought Chapter's 1-3 were good- I would have to say that chapter 4 was absolutely scrumtrulescent! With so many exciting topics to talk about, it is hard to focus on just one for this blog entry- but if I had to pick, I'd have to settle for the wonderful world of output devices. One out put device in particular I found to be incredibly useful, and is an innovation that has changed the world of document production forever. Of course, I am talking about printers. These state-of-the-art printing presses are hardwired to your computer and are able to take text and graphical information and reproduce them on "physical medium" (paper) right before your eyes! The most common types of printing devices are "non-impact" printers, being divided into two subclasses: ink jet printers and laser printers. Ink jet printers are relatively inexpensive and operate by spraying small amounts of ink onto a page to produce high quality text and graphical images in both black and white and color. Laser printers are a higher-end output device that use ink combined with toner in direct contact with a laser, which electrifies the solutions, transfering it to the paper using heat and pressure. Thanks to this device, I can now stop meticulously hand-writing all of my papers in exact text-like format and allow my Cannon 360 to give me pristine, flawless documents in a matter of seconds. No more hand cramps for me!
Last week, I discussed the potential outcome of a violent encounter between a giant panda and a koala bear. Although the discussion was meant purely for educational purposes, it has come to my attention that some of my readers may feel that I have a disrespect for the animal kingdom- and more specifically- that I must consequently engage in the ill treatment of animals on my personal time. I want to take this opportunity to assure those concerned that I have nothing but the greatest love and respect for our little furry friends, and as often as I am able, display my benevolence towards them. I mean, there is the occasional moment where one might be slightly tempted to speed up instinctively when a daring squirrel is making a dash across the perilous highway. But this is all in good fun, just giving the squirrel a run for his money- I mean, we can't let these little guys go J-walking all around our cities, can we? This scenario runs along the same lines as when you might come across a cat caressing itself on a banister of a very tall stairwell. There is a solitary instant where even the most rational of persons would consider giving that cat a good kick, just to see if it would land on its feet. So, am I a proponent of animal cruelty who should be chastised and locked away in a treatment center somewhere? No- but I do feel that when fluffy decides to have a drink from the old U-bend, there might not be a better time to remember to put the seat down - hard.
As far as new skills acquired, I'll have to say that that Inspiration program we worked with was like nothing else I'd ever seen. I remember since the 3rd grade and "Writes Upon Request" came out, I was always inclined to make a good outline first, and Inspiration delivers just that- but with some extra funk. Thank you for this amazing skill! Amen.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Post #2
After a thorough and in depth examination of chapter 3, I found many points pertaining to computer software and its various applications not only entertaining, but potentially useful. Perhaps among all of the softwares, however, there is one whose contributions to the computer world that simply can not be ignored. Of course I am talking about Paint/Image Editing Software. Ever since my childhood, I have mad use of basic image editing software, such as "Paint", which allowed me to create images of my own design with the use of simple tools such as a paintbrush, spray-paint can, and everyone's favorite- the paint bucket! Although I was already spending hours of fun on the Paint program, as Chapter 3 points out, there is more than just one use for image editing software! With today's technology, we can upload digital photos or videos onto our computer, and actually edit them using personal application software! From removing red-eye, to creating light saber battles, the world of image and photo editing software is fast and coming- I just can't wait to see what they think of next! Whoohoo!
Last class was almost life changing. I acquired a number of invaluable skills (not to mention my already amazing bow-staff skills) that will undoubtedly assist me in all of my life goals. For example, I now have mastered the "column" function on Microsoft word, so now I can have not only one row of text, but two...very sneaky. I now have the ability to fool my audiences into thinking they are reading twice the amount of information than they actually are! Ultimately I continue to be thoroughly satisfied with this class, and eagerly await the day that my new founded knowledge will bring me one step closer to world domination.
For this week's "the more you know" in Matt Rousseau's life, I want to share with you what has been an ongoing debate in my intellectual sphere of influence. Where ever I go, I try and pose the following inquiry to those whom I might encounter on my travels- hoping to shed some light on this conundrum. In your honest opinion, who would win in a fight- a giant panda, or a koala bear? Now, don't be deceived by the seemingly simplistic appearance of this question. One must carefully weigh the outcome of this conflict with serious consideration for the various advantages of each animal, and the environment in which they will compete. The panda, who is almost 4 times the Koala's size could easily use its weight to muscle his opponent into submission, and then utilize the alarming biting power of its jaws (normally used to feed upon the immense bamboo shoots of China's eastern highlands) to rip the Koala to shreds. The Kola, on the other hand, has its own bag of tricks in store for its lumbering rival. The Koala, although usually depicted as a docile and slow-moving marsupial in actuality is the world's 3rd fastest land mammal. It can use this to its advantage by incorporating an element of surprise that would render the oft times easily startled panda defenseless for an initial strike. On the offensive, the Koala is armed with deadly 7" claws, filed to a deadly point from a life of tree climbing and mango gathering. The outcome, as one may see, would be incredibly brutal- regardless which side emerged victorious. It is, however, my professional opinion that the Koala would disembowel the panda. Any thoughts?
Last class was almost life changing. I acquired a number of invaluable skills (not to mention my already amazing bow-staff skills) that will undoubtedly assist me in all of my life goals. For example, I now have mastered the "column" function on Microsoft word, so now I can have not only one row of text, but two...very sneaky. I now have the ability to fool my audiences into thinking they are reading twice the amount of information than they actually are! Ultimately I continue to be thoroughly satisfied with this class, and eagerly await the day that my new founded knowledge will bring me one step closer to world domination.
For this week's "the more you know" in Matt Rousseau's life, I want to share with you what has been an ongoing debate in my intellectual sphere of influence. Where ever I go, I try and pose the following inquiry to those whom I might encounter on my travels- hoping to shed some light on this conundrum. In your honest opinion, who would win in a fight- a giant panda, or a koala bear? Now, don't be deceived by the seemingly simplistic appearance of this question. One must carefully weigh the outcome of this conflict with serious consideration for the various advantages of each animal, and the environment in which they will compete. The panda, who is almost 4 times the Koala's size could easily use its weight to muscle his opponent into submission, and then utilize the alarming biting power of its jaws (normally used to feed upon the immense bamboo shoots of China's eastern highlands) to rip the Koala to shreds. The Kola, on the other hand, has its own bag of tricks in store for its lumbering rival. The Koala, although usually depicted as a docile and slow-moving marsupial in actuality is the world's 3rd fastest land mammal. It can use this to its advantage by incorporating an element of surprise that would render the oft times easily startled panda defenseless for an initial strike. On the offensive, the Koala is armed with deadly 7" claws, filed to a deadly point from a life of tree climbing and mango gathering. The outcome, as one may see, would be incredibly brutal- regardless which side emerged victorious. It is, however, my professional opinion that the Koala would disembowel the panda. Any thoughts?
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Post #1
The first chapter of our fantastic textbook highlighted some very pertinent and interesting topics. One striking reality is that of the "digital student", a name lent to the current generation of youth in America. Digital students have grown up in an environment emersed in technology, hours and hours spent behind a computer screen, glued to a television; while chatting on cell phones and instant messaging their latest crush. Consequently, this generation is characterized by absorbing information at incredible speeds (and dispersing just as rapidly), becoming increasingly visually stimulated and as a result, the way in which teachers must conduct the classroom must shift in order to cater to this "digital generation."
One method teachers have been able to use to assist them in relating to and motivating their students is by following the ARCS Motivational Model. The model, introduced by John M. Keller in 1983, suggests that by paying special attention to students' Attention, Relevance, Challenge/Confidence and Satisfaction/Success; students from a broad range of cultural and educational backgrounds can be engaged by their teachers in ways that motivate them towards success. The incorporation of digital media allows for the many levels of application for the ARCS model, and can be an asset to the teacher, rather than the hindrance it is sometimes made out to be.
Since my time enrolled in this course, I have acquired a taste for the very useful skill of blogging. Indeed in the past, I did not see the relevance of spending one's time doodling about his or her thoughts, opinions or dramas online for all to see- in fact, I judged it a very crude sort of communication, and respectfully declined any participation in it. However, after having now learned the skill, I see the potential usefulness of such "blog savvy" behaviors that could very well find their place in the educational system. For instance, many instructors like to supplement their courses with extra materials, primary sources and other complementary references. A blog can serve as a way for the teacher to communicate to students such additional information on a given subject, keep them informed on class developments and due dates, as well as serve a potential tool for teachers to encourage online journaling as assignments outside of class. In conclusion, blogging is super cool.
Now here's something you might not know about me- I enjoy long walks on the beach. Now, I'm not talking about any old walk or leisurely stroll on a little strip of sand down in Panama City- oh no my friends, that is merely a drop in the fantastically awesome bucket that is beach walking. I'm referring to what is now becoming one of the most extreme outdoor sports in America, and soon, the world. Beach walking is all terrain- rocks, fissures, reefs, quicksand; encompassing the most death-defying and heart pounding thrills, compounded by being exposed to extreme weather; hurricanes, tidal waves, tsunamis, earthquakes, golf-ball-sized hail and much much more! The goal is to basically start off in any direction along the coast, and become entirely self-sufficient-feeding on clams, fish, crabs and the occasional wayward seagull. The life of the beach-walker is one full of hard-trained discipline and incomparable bravery, as the sea claims not only the strength of the beach-walkers, but their lives as well. Last year, over 100 people died from beach-walking related deaths, including being struck by lightening, shark attacks, and the even rare (but deadly) sea monster attack. Some people ask me, "Matt, if it's so dangerous, then why do you do it?" And in response I'll quote one of the greatest beach-walkers of all time- Jacques Cousteau, who said, "You've never lived unless you've loved, and you've never loved until you've walked the beach." I'm currently preparing for my greatest beach-walking feat ever- I plan on navigating the coast of Ecuador in South America, finally making my resting place beneath the foothills of the Andes Mountains. My name is Matt Rousseau- and I like long walks on the beach.
One method teachers have been able to use to assist them in relating to and motivating their students is by following the ARCS Motivational Model. The model, introduced by John M. Keller in 1983, suggests that by paying special attention to students' Attention, Relevance, Challenge/Confidence and Satisfaction/Success; students from a broad range of cultural and educational backgrounds can be engaged by their teachers in ways that motivate them towards success. The incorporation of digital media allows for the many levels of application for the ARCS model, and can be an asset to the teacher, rather than the hindrance it is sometimes made out to be.
Since my time enrolled in this course, I have acquired a taste for the very useful skill of blogging. Indeed in the past, I did not see the relevance of spending one's time doodling about his or her thoughts, opinions or dramas online for all to see- in fact, I judged it a very crude sort of communication, and respectfully declined any participation in it. However, after having now learned the skill, I see the potential usefulness of such "blog savvy" behaviors that could very well find their place in the educational system. For instance, many instructors like to supplement their courses with extra materials, primary sources and other complementary references. A blog can serve as a way for the teacher to communicate to students such additional information on a given subject, keep them informed on class developments and due dates, as well as serve a potential tool for teachers to encourage online journaling as assignments outside of class. In conclusion, blogging is super cool.
Now here's something you might not know about me- I enjoy long walks on the beach. Now, I'm not talking about any old walk or leisurely stroll on a little strip of sand down in Panama City- oh no my friends, that is merely a drop in the fantastically awesome bucket that is beach walking. I'm referring to what is now becoming one of the most extreme outdoor sports in America, and soon, the world. Beach walking is all terrain- rocks, fissures, reefs, quicksand; encompassing the most death-defying and heart pounding thrills, compounded by being exposed to extreme weather; hurricanes, tidal waves, tsunamis, earthquakes, golf-ball-sized hail and much much more! The goal is to basically start off in any direction along the coast, and become entirely self-sufficient-feeding on clams, fish, crabs and the occasional wayward seagull. The life of the beach-walker is one full of hard-trained discipline and incomparable bravery, as the sea claims not only the strength of the beach-walkers, but their lives as well. Last year, over 100 people died from beach-walking related deaths, including being struck by lightening, shark attacks, and the even rare (but deadly) sea monster attack. Some people ask me, "Matt, if it's so dangerous, then why do you do it?" And in response I'll quote one of the greatest beach-walkers of all time- Jacques Cousteau, who said, "You've never lived unless you've loved, and you've never loved until you've walked the beach." I'm currently preparing for my greatest beach-walking feat ever- I plan on navigating the coast of Ecuador in South America, finally making my resting place beneath the foothills of the Andes Mountains. My name is Matt Rousseau- and I like long walks on the beach.
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