Final Blog Post for IS101-3004, Fall 2024

 

 Transforming Digital Literacy

When I first started IS101-3004, I thought my computer skills were sufficient. However, as the course progressed, it became crystal clear just how limited my knowledge really was. Navigating Word documents was something I had done before, but I hadn’t fully grasped its finer features like creating polished layouts or using advanced formatting tools. Similarly, my working knowledge of Excel spreadsheets was quite limited compared to now. The lessons on formulas, tables, and even functions like VLOOKUP were eye-opening. These skills have completely redefined how I approach data organization and analysis.

PowerPoint became an unexpected learning highlight for me. I used to think it was just a basic tool for presenting ideas, but IS101-3004 showed me how to elevate my presentations with visual storytelling and thoughtful design. Understanding slide transitions, animations, and audience engagement strategies were to me, game changers.

If I could redo the semester, the one thing I’d do differently is practice more extensively outside the assignments. While the class provided excellent hands-on activities, I’ve realized the importance of real-world application in mastering these skills. Setting aside extra time to work on personal projects using Excel and PowerPoint would have further solidified my learning experience.

Realizing the Leader in You – The A5 Slideshow Presentation

The A5 Slideshow Presentation offered a unique chance to reflect on leadership and self-growth. My topic, ‘Realizing the Leader in You,’ pushed me to think deeply about how presentation techniques can amplify a message. One powerful technique I embraced was using art to help convey the message. For instance, I incorporated graphics like icons and diagrams to emphasize key points while discussing leadership characteristics. These visuals added a layer of clarity and engagement, making the presentation more impactful for my audience.

IS101 - Finishing Hard, amidst gains in Citations and References & AutoFill Options

Mastering new skills is often the key to academic success, and I benefited greatly from learning how to manage references through LabSim's Chapter 4.10.1 Citations and References. This task taught me how to effectively use in-text citations to create a detailed reference list which techniques, I applied in my recent ENG 101 persuasive research writing assignment which saw my professor praise my precise and thorough referencing, a testament to the effectiveness of what I learned in IS101. This knowledge has significantly improved my ability to handle research-focused assignments with confidence and accuracy.

Efficiency is crucial when working with large amounts of data, and I discovered just how valuable the Excell AutoFill Options feature from LabSim's Chapter 5.6.2 greatly equipped me with the requisite tools to speed up repetitive tasks with ease. Whether entering or formatting data, AutoFill streamlined my workflow and helped me maintain consistency. This newfound ability to save time has enhanced my productivity and sharpened my focus whenever I use Excell.

As I progress through IS101-3004, Fall 2024, I am determined to finish strong. Challenges may arise, but my commitment to overcoming them remains steadfast. With each skill I acquire and refine, I am preparing myself to not only complete the course but to excel in it. This determination, coupled with my growing proficiency in tools like Microsoft Word and Excel, ensures that I am fully equipped to achieve my academic goals and finish IS101 on a high note.

Two Weeks of the IS101 Journey and Using Hyperlink in Emails

The first two weeks in IS101 have been challenging. Missing the first 20 minutes of the lecture set me off on the wrong foot, leaving me scrambling to catch up, especially during those initial weeks. Thankfully, with the support of our compassionate lecturer, Mr. Albert Wu, and the online Webex sessions, I'm steadily getting back on track. Despite the rocky start with the enormous workload, I'm catching up. Much of the content aligns with what I already know from basic computer use, but I'm also picking up new skills every day. It's an interesting journey, and I'm committed to seeing it through. "It will be tough, I know! The road will be muddy and rough, but surely we will get there."

Performing and completing the activities Microsoft Outlook Email and Firewall configuration in LabSim was a great new experience. Especially the use of hyperlink in mails to direct recipients of mails to specific sources being mentioned/referred to in the mail.

Global Warming, a Continental Threat

Hello Readers!!, welcome to my Blog, I am Aluta Continua, a first year Associate of Applied Science in Computing and Information Technology student at the College of Southern Nevada, Charleston Campus. I am happy and excited to be taking this course in Information Systems for the first time. As part of my course assignment, I am required to create a blog solely for academic purpose. Aluta Continua is my response to the creation of this blog and below is my very first post, which is on the subject of Global Warming. Have a great read.

The photo above is that of National Geographic’s photographer Paul Nicklen taking a photo shot of the beautiful and breathtaking ice formation at Skagway, Alaska, USA. The beautiful site is a reminder to us nature lovers, governments and opinion leaders to take a cue in the subject of global warming and its associated threats to the sustainability of our environment.

As an individual and a lover of nature who constantly supports efforts aimed at environmental conservation and preservation, I am motivated to use this picture and several others in educating the citizenry on the negative impact of human activities that contributes to Global Warming, a scientific fact whose impact can result in the meltdown of ice such as this one at Skagway, Alaska and thereby negatively impact the environment.

With the Southern Ocean alone, absorbing as much as 75 percent of the excess heat, and 40 percent of the carbon dioxide created by human activities, floating ice shelves are melting rapidly, raising concerns about the sudden, uncontrollable sea level rise, a recipe for greater catastrophe in time to come.