Academic Development
Foundation degree
What I’ve learned since the beginning of the course. So far I have gone over;
Computer Maintenance and Administration (Computer Hardware)
Introduction to Networking
Personal, Professional and Academic Development (PPAD)
Systems Analysis and Development (Data Modelling)
Programming
In Computer Maintenance and Administration (Computer Hardware) I have looked at the components of a computer and how they relate and work together. Some of the subjects we have gone over so far are a recap of what I have done before, such as connecting hard drives, cables and connection types. I have used it to back up my understanding of the subject and to reinforce this. However, I have learned about the importance of cases and the air flow through the case and the hardware. I found that the way the course has been taught is perfect for my learning style and ability so far. I would like to do more practical, hands-on work but I’m sure these will be coming in the upcoming weeks as we progress.
Introduction to Networking I have enjoyed very much. I find that it is going really well and even though I have studied some of the subject matter already, I am finding out bits I don’t know. The subject matter covered so far that I have already studied and have some knowledge of is: What is Networking, What Binary is and some general information. I have learned during this course about what the OSI Model is and what the several layers are and what they are for. I find Steve’s style of teaching suits me well and I enjoy his lessons.
Personal, Professional and Academic Development (PPAD), is a subject in which I have learned and reflected on my strengths and weaknesses. We also look at SWAT analysis, what it is and what it does. I feel that Personal, Professional and Academic Development (PPAD) will not be one of my strongest modules, as I am working out of my comfort zone and I find it hard to appraise myself. I find Sue Marr to be a great teacher, and my shortfalls in this module are not a reflection on her teaching methods. The reason I find this subject not as interesting as the others is because I have previously done something similar on another course and didn't enjoy it. However I did learn allot from it and I realise that it is an integral part of my education and is therefore something I will have to try particularly hard at. I found that it taught me self-confidence and will be very helpful in the real world.
The module Systems Analysis and Development (Data Modelling) is quite interesting to me. It's not the sort of thing I thought I would find interesting but being something I have never done before, I am enjoying it so far. Up to now we have looked at what Data Modelling is, how it should be set out, what entity’s are and how relationships go together. I think that this will be an interesting module, but could also get very complicated if you don’t keep up with what is going on and/or understand how it works. I would like to start working on the computer orientated parts soon.
Programming is very interesting for me, not only is it a subject I have never done before but it is also something I have wanted to try out. I am enjoying these lessons a lot. I have learned a great deal whilst covering this module. Currently we have looked at C# and the history behind it; we are using Microsoft’s visual basics 2005. The project I am currently working on is Quiz Box, in which we have a set of questions and have to make a programme that answers the questions when clicked.
Michael Wood learning progression blog. =)
