Lumetta-Zelaya Ariana
Portfolio
CRN 10256
28 July 2010
Meaningful Topics I Learned in CISB11
After taking this introductory course to computer science I feel more appreciative and aware of the role that computers play in nearly all aspects of daily life. This course familiarized me with computer terminology; consequently, providing me with the necessary foundation for continuing taking classes pertaining to technology. I took Introduction to Computer Science during my last semester at Georgetown University, which was the university’s only introductory course to computer science. It consisted solely of programming in Java and algorithm instruction. I anticipated learning about more preliminary computer topics, like in this class, upon enrollment in the class at Georgetown. It is only now, that I feel more competent using computers and prepared to add to my knowledge base.
Of the many things I learned this semester, the following were most memorable: system software, application software, computer networks, and information systems and system development. For example, I was previously unaware of the differences between system software and application software. Furthermore, learning about the components of system software; namely, the operating system and utility programs really surprised me. I was surprised by the absolute practicality and efficiency existent behind the functioning of the computer system.
Above all, I am happy to have acquired some understanding of computer networks. I had been aware of common networking and communications applications such as mobile phones and videoconferencing technology, for example, but completely ignorant of types of networks, data transmission characteristics, and networking hardware. I was particularly intrigued by the wired versus wireless network transmission media types. It was interesting learning about radio signals and the electromagnetic spectrum because I was not aware of which frequencies pertained to what wireless applications.
It was also interesting learning about information systems and recent advances in artificial intelligence and robotics. I have seen exoskeleton suits in science fiction movies and heard about robot-assisted surgery, but have not been trained in distinguishing fictional technology from reality. Now I have a greater sense of awareness of recent developments in robotics and of current expectations for the future. I think it was useful learning about the system development life cycle (SDLC) because of nearly all organizations using computers and processing electronic transactions nowadays. I should be aware of the cycle’s developmental components because chances are that my future workplace will implement the SDLC in its operations.
Currently, my job does not require any specialized computer skills;
nonetheless, this class sheds light on relevant operations that I encounter
every day. As part of my job, for example, I utilize an inventory
management system (IMS) to ensure that my store receives needed products at
appropriate time intervals and a point-of-sale (POS) system for processing
customers’ transactions. Also, sometimes I have to troubleshoot with
technicians about malfunctioning cash registers or barcode readers. Now,
I can feel more confident speaking with computer technicians and being more
receptive to their instructions. In the future, as an air traffic
controller, I can imagine using a decision support system (DSS). Our text
indicates that decision support systems vary by specialized tasks, such as the Sales
Support DSS that is intended for marketing personnel and Transportation DSS
designed for routing transportation vehicles.
