T171 End of Course Assessment
Lois Ann Morris PI: T8318286 5th October 2001.
Reflection on the objectives and study material of Module 2- with reference to my own learning experience |
| Module 2 was structured around a set book “Accidental Empires” by Robert Cringeley so there was much more reading and note-taking. Through the history of mainframes, minicomputers and workstations, we studied the physical structure of computers and the development of operating systems and software. The three interrelated themes of companies, personalities and technologies were used as illustration. There were practical exercises at the end of each section as well as tutor group activities to complete but there was also noticeably less hand-holding in this module. “Accidental Empires” provided a somewhat irreverent and idiosyncratic view of how the microcomputer (Personal Computer) came to be one of the defining technologies of the century. Cringeley’s writing style evoked rather strong reactions amongst some students who felt that it was too ‘jokey’ and ‘American-centred’ while others were more open-minded. It is clear that this particular book was chosen with the ‘clear thinking’ principles in mind. We had to analyse and be selective about the material, conscious of Cringeley’s personal viewpoint and any possible bias. As in Module 1, exercises were aimed at the development of practical study skills. These included creating an HTML study journal, note taking, summarising, critical reading, concept maps, understanding metaphors, developing web authoring skills and analysing current literature. Module 2 was designed to give us an overall appreciation of the many different aspects of the personal computer with the aim of helping students "acquire the ability and confidence to learn, live and work within the world of computers". I was familiar with much of the material covered in this module, especially since I had already built three computers and installed their operating systems and software.
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