Post #4

Chapter four discusses many basic things about a computer and the key words that describe them. Imputs and outputs are discussed as what is entered into the memory of the computer (inputs) and the data that has been processed into a useful form (outputs). Understanding what goes in a computer and how it is processed is important to understanding the basics of a computer and how it runs. Inputs devices such as a keyboard, mouse, or scanners make it easier to manuever around the computer. It helps in the process of entering memory. Any kind of scanner, digital pen, digital camera etc. can benefit those who are trying to enter information, graph, or picture from another source. Output devices such as a monitor is very useful in the classroom to display videos or simply go through a step by step demonstration. Outputs make it easier in the classroom to relay information. The chapter discuss all kinds of outputs that are used everyday, such as flat panel monitors that use liquid crystal to present the information on a screen. Televisions are often found in this form. Storage media devices such as a floppy disk or zip disk has made it easier for those to store and transport information from one location to another.

Lately, I have been trying to work and take this class, but working away from Tallahassee is starting to drain me. The class on the other hand is really helping me to better understand the computer and realize that there is a lot to learn. It does make the commuting a little easier since the class is computer based and I can work at home after working all night, at my convenience. Though I live most of the week at the beach, I haven't been able to enjoy the white sandy beaches as much as I had hoped and unfortunately, my summer tan is quickly fading.

Working with the SAM program I am learning a lot more about Microsoft Word than I expected. I am quite surprised there is so much I did not know about Word, even though I have worked with it for years. Running through the training and practice test has helped me to better understand the ins and outs of the program. I did not know all the little processes that can create simple, but informational drafts. I have learned MANY things about this program, but the one thing that sticks out it my mind was the forms you can create and the form fields you can put in the forms. I have also been learning more about these blogs we're writing and the program that we use. I don't ever mess around with these type things because most of my work on the computer deals with writing papers, looking up information online, and facebooking. Being pushed to use this program has helped me to better understand blogs.