Lil A

This is my first experience with an online class, and I absolutely love it! At first I was a bit worried about what was expected and if I would be successful, but now I’m sure online classes are awesome. I like being able to go at my own pace, and having a whole week to complete assignments. It’s really nice to know that you can set your own time for this class. I wouldn’t change anything, I’ve enjoyed doing what we’ve done so far in this class. After having this online course, I actually prefer it over a live class session. I don’t necessarily know if an online class would work out for a class that involves a lot of complex content (biochem). I can learn at my own pace when taking an online course, but you have to make sure you are self disciplined. Some students need live sessions to motivate them, but I could manage just fine in an online setting. I would definietly take another online course, and I’ll be looking for them when I sign up next year for classes. I know GV offers a variety of courses online and I’ll be looking to take them if I can.

The software applications that I think most important (listed greatest importance to least importance) are:
1. Word Processors
2. Spreadsheets
3. Presentation Software
4. Desktop Pusblishing
5. Imaging Software
Word Processors get the number one position for me, because this is the most frequently used application. Students will use this application longer than any of the other ones in thier lives. This application should be taught as early as 1st grade. Students are becoming familar with computers earlier than in previous generations, so by this grade they should already have been introduced to a computer.
Spreadsheets are very helpful, too. They save time, create charts, and can analyze data effectively. In many classes students will be required to make graphs and spreadsheet programs often have this option (and do it rather quickly). Spreadsheets are another application that can be used throughout life. I would think these would be introduced in either late elementary or middle school, because this is where students will begin to use them in school.
Presentation software is important to learn how to use. Often it makes presentation more neat and more organized. They can also be used in a variety of ways. Some people will probably use presentation software frequently in thier jobs, and having background with this software is a great advantage for presenting to a group. Middle school would be an ideal time for this software to be introduced. Students start to make presentations in these years, and it should be introduced to them at this time.
Desktop publishing ranks number four. I think the concept of using this type of application is important to understand in terms of making work look professional in a variety of ways. Students will probably use this most when making a resume, and a great looking resume may make or break them getting the job. The best time to introduce this software is in high school. This is a time when students will start to acquire jobs, and learning how to make a resume would help them out a lot.
Imaging software is becoming more and more popular in our society. Digital cameras are becoming rather popular, and being familiar with a program that can help with imaging is very useful. I find myself using this software a lot, and it’s very helpful in making a picture fabulous.
Middle school is when this application should be introduced, and maybe before that age. I know that the use of digital cameras to spreading to lower grades so it would be nice to introduce a program that would help them refine pictures.