Blog Post # 2

I found Chapter 3 to, like previous chapters read, be very basic and explaining things I knew. However, although I knew almost everything they talked about, there were a few key terms that I didn’t have a name for what they were describing, or I just didn’t know what it was. I also thought it was interesting that all the software I’ve either used or heard of was put into different categories because when they are separated like that it is much easier to see the differences. I could see how it would be very helpful to cover so many simple terms like cut, paste, clipart, font, icon, word-wrap, search, header/footer, etc if I had never used a computer before because all of their explanations are very process detailed. The difference I found between the three main software programs was that application software is basic programs that assist people in completing their tasks. Productivity software steps beyond that and enhances their tasks to make it even better (although I don’t think their definition made sense -- it says that the software makes “people more effective and efficient while performing daily activities” -- I understand it could make whatever they’re doing more effective for the viewer but I’m not quite sure how a software could make a person more effective or efficient.. It kinda made me laugh. It is more specific than application software and makes everything more organized because each program is designed for certain things (i.e. spreadsheets are more for numbers, data, tables, etc). Lastly, graphics and multimedia software programs get even more narrowed down to what types of things it is for and make it easier. For example, a desktop publishing software may be used for the layout of a yearbook or newsletters. This program would be easier to use for those types of things than just a Microsoft Word document because it’s more organized and made for those types of tasks.

Something I learned was from the reading that I thought it was really interesting was when they talked about the voice recognition option and the note taking software because they are not extremely prevalent right now, at least at the college level. However, I think it’ll be a big change when it becomes more common for students to be able to tell our computers what to do or type, or write something have then have it printed out in Times New Roman.

I really loveddd making the “quiz” in class and working on my newsletter.. I know, I’m a dork. As ridiculous as it sounds, I love making things like that because I feel so accomplished for making something so detailed/creative/informative/etc on the comp! I think it was really helpful to do it together in class because it felt effortless, and once I know how to do it I’ll remember because it’s something I think I will use!