App inventor

Previous Knowledge

Previously I had no experience of creating apps, and wasn't aware that they could be created using programs online.

Current Knowledge

App inventor was a program which I thoroughly enjoyed using. At first it seemed quite complex as the online tutorials were not always clear and concise but as I familiarised myself with the different aspects of the program, it seemed easier to use. A lot of the event handler and command blocks which appeared in the block editor had a logical explanation on them, so it started to become much easier to use. I have created various different applications and have developed to move on to the ones at the intermediate level. Using App Inventor helped me to understand the requirements of putting together the various elements of an app, and how much work and thought goes into the process.

Strengths

I enjoyed exploring what the different tools were used for and knowing I could undo the action made it easier to be able to experiemnt more freely to familiarise myself with the different aspects.

Weaknesses

Initially app inventor had alot of issues setting up the program and was difficult to ensure it was working. The blocks editor can be a little confusing if you have not practiced enough as you must recognise the blocks without any guidance. I think I could practice more to familiarise myself of all the possible commands in blocks editor, so I would be able to use it more confidently.

Lesson Ideas

It is quite difficult to create an app using App Inventor without any guidance. I would use the tutorials online to introduce this topic to pupils as it will give them the chance to explore the program as I did. I would then ask them to find a tutorial and adapt it so that it is relevant to their interests. e.g. an app for a music quiz etc.

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Secondary storage

Previous Knowledge

I had basic knowledge of some of the secondary storage devices, however I only knew them by name and was not aware of any of their properties or purpose.

Current Knowledge

We had to create a common craft video within a team. Through reserach I got an indepth understanding of what each secondary strorage was and its basic operation, advantages and disadvantages, transfer rates, portability and what it is most suitable for. I am not able to identify which storage device would be most convenient for what purpose.

Strengths

As I would already aware of some of the secondary devices, this lesson gave me the chance to expand my knowledge and gain more information. I can now distinguish between each one and identify which is most suitable for what situation.

Weaknesses

I found this topic quite straight forward so there wasn't really an area I could identify as being weak.

Lesson Ideas

Creating a common craft video was a great team building exercise and it also divided the workload amongst the team members effectively. This is something which I would consider doing as it gives the pupils a chance to be creative and presenting in a way which reflects their personality.

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