Blog #4

Chapter 4 discusses input and output devices. Input devices allow you to enter data, programs, commands, and user responses into a computer. There are a wide range of input devices. One of the most common input devices is the keyboard. A keyboard is a group of switches in key form that allow a user to enter input. Keyboards input letters of the alphabet, numbers, and simple commands with the touch of a finger. A mouse is also an input device, which allows a pointer to makes selections on a screen with a simple click. Other devices are touchpads, joysticks, digital cameras, and audio video input. Output devices are any computer component that is capable of conveying information to a user. An example of an output device is a monitor, or other display device. A printer is another output device that produces text and graphical information in hard copy, as opposed to a monitor which is considered a soft copy, because the product is editable. Ohter examples are fax machines, data projectors, and audio output.

I have found my classmates' blogs to be quite interesting. The most beneficial part of reading their blogs is picking up information they wrote down from the chapter, some of which I may have missed. By reading their blogs, I also receive reinforcement of the information that I read. I also get to read their opinions on the class, things they like and dislike which help me to view the class in different ways. I also enjoy seeing the set-up of other students' blogs. At times, I feel that commenting on five blogs can become repetitive, but it is still nice to get other perspectives.

I have learned a great deal since I last wrote in my blog. For starters, we used a program called "Inspiration" in class last week, and because I have a Mac I had never heard of it before. It was interesting to make our own concept map (I did mine on.. Concept Mapping- I know, real original). I also learned about input and output devices, which I knew about, but was not aware of which category a mouse or my monitor would fit in. Another interesting thing I picked up from the chapter was the different storage devices that are at my disposal. Being a current college student, this information was highly useful, as I'm sure it will be when I begin my teaching career as well.