Reflection on Chapter 5

1) Explain the options for connecting to the Internet and the advantages and disadvantages

of each option

There are four ways to connect to the internet. The first one is using DSL (Digital subscriber line). This connection transmits digital data over regular phone lines and delivers typical download speeds. The disadvantage of this is that this service isn’t available in all areas, especially rural areas.  The advantage is that it includes a signal that does not interfere with phone conversations and a connection that stays on.

Another kind of connection is digital cable. Digital cable transmits information through cable lines and is a continuous connection. The advantage is that it’s the fastest broadband connection. A disadvantage is that often, this type of connection is provided with other subscriptions, such as TV service.

Satellite internet offers broadband access alternatives for rural internet users whose location is not served by DSL or digital cable providers. The advantage for Satellite internet is much faster than dial-up connection but for residential users it may be slower than cable and DSL. The disadvantage is that trees, dense clouds, heavy rains, and user traffic can affect the reception of the internet signal.

Another type of connection is using a wireless connection. It is also known as fixed wireless. It is available for residential use in some geographic areas. It uses microwave technology to transfer data between a radio transmission tower and a rooftop antenna.  This is widely used in many universities and k-12 schools. The students are able to access the internet in any building or classroom served by this technology using appropriately equipped laptops.

Reflection Chapter 8

1) Discuss the effective uses of digital diagrams in teaching and learning.

There are three main different types of digital diagrams that can be used in teaching and learning. These diagrams are concept maps, idea maps, and webs.

A concept map is a hierarchical diagram showing the relationships between concepts. It starts off with the general theme or idea at the top and as the concept map goes down, it breaks down from general to specific. There are usually words in between each item that are used to show the relationships of one item to another. These words are usually called linking words and paired with arrows to show which direction the items break down into.

Idea maps are created during a session of brainstorming. Brainstorming usually is a way to generate ideas and come up with different solutions. The first thing in an idea map is to have the main topic or statement so that all of the students are able to see it. The next thing figure out if the teacher’s going to write it or will a student write it. After the students all brainstorm and get all of their ideas on the idea map, they can cluster the results and analyze the results.

Another type of diagram is the web. Webs are visual maps that illustrate how different pieces of information relate to each other. The main idea is placed in the center and the ideas are placed around the central idea. The students will then transfer their information into an outline and can be used as a guide for writing.

Reflection on Chapter 3

Discuss the characteristics and functions of operating system, application, Internet, and assistive software.
An operating system is the master control software system that serves as a foundation for application software programs. It is usually the system that controls and interacts with the hardware components and the other software that are being used. The operating system is usually included when the computer is purchased and is loaded most of the time already by the manufacturer. Often times, they will also include a hard copy back up in the form of a CD or a DVD that you must keep in a safe place in case anything goes wrong and needs to be updated.


An application software is usually additional software that are purchased and uploaded on the computer to perform specific tasks. There are many different kinds of application software for many different purposes. It is often bought as a single unit or a bundle of related programs. Along with software that is able to be purchased, there is also software that is free to whoever wants to download it.

Internet software is required for any kind of internet use. The most basic software for internet includes Web browsers and email. A browser software is the software that allows the access and navigation of the world wide web easier to get to.

An assistive software is usually any additional item used to improve the learning of people with disabilities. These software are often specially requested and specially put in so that the learner would be able to learn as much as possible without limitations.

Reflection on Chapter 2

Discuss major considerations for purchasing a computer for home or classroom.

One of the most important things to look for when purchasing a new computer for a home or classroom is the RAM. RAM stands for “random access memory”. RAM is a temporary memory in a computer that is designed to hold new data and is available only while the computer is turned on. Once the computer is turned off or the computer crashes, though, the RAM erases from the computer. The RAM is lost and is not saved anywhere on the computer. The amount of RAM is an important factor in purchasing a computer because it determines the types of software programs that would be able to be used as well as the number of programs the computer can run at the same time successfully.


Another important factor to consider when deciding on what computer to buy for your home or classroom would be the processor speed. The processor is what conveys how fast data can be moved in and out of the memory. The processor works as a little butler, constantly running errands and making sure everything’s going smoothly in the computer. It’s always important to get a good processor to ensure that your computer runs without any major problems. Working on more advanced projects may require better processors than others.

One final thing I feel is most important in considering a computer would be its ROM. Rom is short for “read-only memory”. The ROM is a permanent internal memory inside a computer system that is inaccessible to the user and is used to store the instructions that are programmed or installed at the manufacturer.

Reflection on Chapter 1

Reflect on the characteristics of special learners.

There are many different types of special learners. These special learners have many different issues, problems, and/or dilemmas in their lives. Behavior, for example, is one of those types of special learners who have a hard time paying attention and sometimes exhibits withdrawn or aggressive behaviors. Cultural differences are also a major faction of special learners. These children are normal children, but because of language barriers, it might have an affect on their grades. Many children are also of different economic statuses. Many students do not have the money to have computers and all the necessary things to help them learn. No matter what the problem is, many of these special learners require special help to be able to succeed and move on to greater learning.

Being able to use technology to help these children will help accommodate the diversity among the students. Understanding that technology is a critical tool to learning, many researchers are starting to fight for a more open access to technology for all of the learners, special or not. Many of them are recommending teachers to have available access to a broadband range of technology. They want these teachers to use technology as a tool and resource to help the individuals who have different learning styles. Having these tools and access to many other technology will help each student to catch up and/or advance into higher learning. It is very important to special learners to have these technological advances because being a special learner makes it hard for them to excel on their own in the classrooms. Understanding special learners and understanding that it is important to have technology in our classrooms will better benefit our future leaders.

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