Completing U29 Installing and Upgrading Software!

Aim: To install and upgrade software.
         To understand the completion and handover process.

Objectives:
To complete all check lists.
To install and upgrade software, including back up of files and back out process.
To be able to explain what the user acceptance process is.

Hello!

Returning to college this week, we firstly had the quiz via Kahoot that Jordan B had delayed. It was in regards to the unit and most of the question were true or false. By the end, Ben C won the duo monitors and Edward L lost so he needs to make next week's quiz. Quizzes are small excitements, the little things in college life. 

With everyone continuing with their outstanding work, I started and finished U29_A4T2 which was all about back out procedures. For this, I created three different checklists of how to back out an installation or upgrade - these were cancelling the installation wizard, uninstalling software via control panel and using system restore. Most of these things were common knowledge so it was relatively easy, this was a strength. I also provided a how-to guide which explains the steps I took.

I then started U29_A4T3 and finished it too, this was all about the user acceptance process where users have to go through different stages of agreements, checks, legal documents and sign offs before handing over to the customer. Good informative information.

Myself and Zoë also spent some time together where she helped me with my resubmission for U29_A2 - such as checking comments and formatting the document.

Reflecting on today, I have managed to get work done really early. All I did was focus hard on getting the work done and including everything needed. An inspiration has been Zoë because she has been great help. I don't have anything to do for now so I will wait to see if I am needed Thursday, otherwise I'll practice drawing  and designing for my creative skills. 

Installation & Upgrading Guides!

Aim: To install and upgrade software.
        To understand back-out procedures.

Objectives:
*To complete all check lists for the back up, installing, upgrading and back-out procedures.
*To back up files using a variety of methods.
*To install and upgrade software to a computer system.
*To back out of an install or upgrade using a variety of methods.

For some reason, although I slept earlier I still ended up even more tired. Nonetheless, I came into college and everyone cracked on with their work. I firstly asked Zoë to check my U29_A1 resubmission (as stated yesterday) - we went through the comments and changes I amended.

Next, I had a split phase where I was confused with the workload I have in regards to U29_A3 and U29_A4 so Zoë created a list for the class. For the day I planned to complete U29_A3T1 and U29_A4T1. For U29_A3, I made small changes to the checklists I created earlier because I used a different software for my antivirus software - Avira instead of AVG. I then documented and evidenced down the procedure I did for all data integrity plans. A strength was being succinct and concise, whilst remaining informative. In the end I got this piece of assignment completed and submitted it in.

For the other half of the day, Catherine had a talk about studying and working abroad. Since I have confirmed NUA as my firm choice, I felt there was no need to listen to it. Meanwhile, I used this time to start and complete U29_A4T1. This is another evidence document where I explained all the procedures for how I installed LibreOffice and other software. I also took some time out of the day to write down an approximate 100 worded quote for Adam to give to Jo - the CEIAG Newsletter lady.

I spent some time drawing random images on paint, changing the seats around and I almost fell asleep when my eyes were failing. 

Reflecting on today, being able to get all the work I set done was a strength. On the other hand, I do not necessarily understand what to do for U29_A4T2 and T3 because it is not yet explained - however I will leave this until Monday. My inspiration today has been Euan J because he worked at the same pace as I - being able to set a good working ethic is good practice. Over the weekends, I am going to practice drawing and making an infographic for Adam's Blender tutorial. 

Installing Software & Chilling!

Aims and Objectives: 

*Complete outstanding work.
*Begin practical.
*Learn to be independent.
*Cry.

Over my independent study time over Tuesday and Wednesday, I came into college with Sami H and Adam M to complete our resubmissions for U26_A2 overall. I managed to get lots of beneficial help from Emily. I also did completed my resubmission for U29_A1 for Zoë. However I left it until today because I wanted it to be checked before resubmission.

Since Zoë and Emily are away, we instead had Adam, Catherine and John for our tutors today. Over the first half of the day with Adam, we got on with outstanding work. Since I had little to do, I attempted to get ahead of maths on U26_A4T2, this was a strength. In addition to this, Adam also gave me good news where Jo the newsletter lady is going to include a quote I will give about me getting an unconditional offer. I have also been tasked to create an infographic for Blender to help future students.

Over the second half, Catherine took us for a small moment where we had to change our passwords for a website called Tootoot. It is a website where we can report issues to staff such as bullying etc. I find this to be quite unnesessary for me but it could come in handy for other students. When we had John, we checked our checklists together for installing and upgrading software, then myself, Matthew T, Benjamin R, Euan J and Liam B went downstairs to do so. I installed LibreOffice, Avria antivirus software protection and even performed data integrity procedures such as system restore and external drive back up. This took half a day which leads to a great finish. We are also leaving 10 minutes earlier because there is staff training.

For my personal reflections, I will check U29_A1 with Zoë tomorrow, complete my quote and infographic tomorrow as well as further progress my maths if possible. I feel very accomplished. See you tomorrow!

Checklists & Maths!

Aim: To be able to plan a software installation and upgrade.

Objectives:
Plan an installation of Libre Office and AVG anti-virus software.
Plan how to upgrade AVG anti-virus software.
Plan procedures to preserve data integrity during an upgrade or installation.

First day back into College!

Good news, I have obtained an unconditional offer for NUA and have accepted it as a firm choice. I have also worked on my outstanding U26_A2 maths work.

The first thing Zoë did was recap to us about both U29_A1 and U29_A2. I made notes on this for anything I have missed so I can make sure I hit the criteria for the resubmissions, this was a strength. Next, Zoë then started to cover U29_A3 where we have to create check lists for installing/upgrading software in preparation for U29_A4. Through this, I have created a check list for installing Libre Office, AVG Antivirus and creating data integrity checks such as external drive, system restore and system image. This was relatively easy but at first I did not know anything. Thanks to very clear YouTube videos, I have learnt what a system image is and how to perform one.

After this, whilst other peers were working on U29_A3, I worked on U29_A1 resubmission and corrected as much as I can. However, I did not finish and this was a minor weakness. With a slight twist, today we had Emily instead because she will be away on Thursday.

Within maths, Emily helped the entire class with resubmission overall. She taught me so much more and I find it beneficial to learn in small or 1 to 1 focused groups. I was able to understand the relationship between matrices and variable arrays, recursive algorithms, termination condition and the code - especially For rules.

Reflecting on today, it has been very progressive and productive. Upon returning home, I will be working on maths both U26_A2T1 and T2. For the questions I do not understand, I will make a list of it and ask Emily tomorrow. Coming in using independent study time is a worthy decision. I will also finish U29_A1 resubmission by the time we return for Thursday.

See you Thursday! Wait, tomorrow actually.

Successful Upgrade or Installation of Software!

Aim: To understand how to plan for a successful upgrade or installation of software.

Objectives:
*Describe the potential risks of installing or upgrading software.
*Evaluate the risks using a RAG scale of likelihood vs damage.
*Explain how the risks could be minimised.
*Explain the requirements in preparing for a software installation and upgrade.

At the start of the day, Zoë showed us some interesting videos about modular phones and readjustable phones where users can implement add-ons to boost the performance and or switch different parts manually. This is quite interesting because it is a powerful method to help reduce e-waste but as we had a class discussion we admitted it was not attractive because nowadays people prefer newer and thinner phones. 

Next, Zoë explained M2 for U29_A2, which is about the considerations before installing/upgrading software. In pairs, we use whiteboard and pen to list down factors and then we held another class discussion. This was relatively easy and is to be presented via flowchart.

Continuing U29_A2, I corrected RAG with Zoë's quick help and typed up the remaining subheadings for the risks of installing/upgrading software and minimising the risks. This did not take long. A strength was being quick and succinct with work, whilst ensuring quality by proof reading. I then created a flowchart and explained the considerations and submitted the assignment.

Upgrading/Installing Software Consideration Flowchart

I also spent a quick moment to answer Catherine's email which was about measuring the impact of careers advice - I personally found 1:1 and trips the most useful because it is really focused and I love the aspect of being guided with advice and support whenever stuck. It narrows down a single path and allows a clear defined goal. And that 

trips allowed me to experience the environment at the university as well as the course and its content. This makes a place much more attractive and interesting. If we did not go to NUA etc, I would have never thought of there. This links with Subject Specific Tasters: Gaming.

At the end of the day, I spent time working on maths, drawing and just sitting around. I assume my weakness was being distracted for a little bit. However, I am ahead and all work is planned out. I am ready for Half Term! See you in one week.

Bye!

Risks for Upgrading/Installing Software & Minimising Methods!

Aim: To understand the potential risks when upgrading and installing software and how to minimise these risks.

Objectives:
*To be able to explain some potential risks in upgrading and installing software.
*To be able to create a RAG chart to show the likelihood and severity of each risk.
*To be able to describe how risks can be minimised when upgrading and installing software.

Hello all,

With my independent study time through Tuesday and Wednesday, I used this time to prepare for my interview which I had yesterday. In my opinion, it went really well and I feel confident after it took place - now just to await for a response. I also spent time to finish U29_A1 where I had to write about the importance of upgrading/installing antivirus protection, which is to minimise the risk of having your system becoming affected as well as to update your computer with new virus signatures.

Today in college we started with the weekly Thursday Quiz - it seems to have transitioned from Friday to Thursday now. Zoë gave us a quiz (not Kahoot :c) about a robot that flies like a bird (watch here). It is interesting but I am still unsure of the entire reasoning. At the end of the quiz, I got 5/10 (safe zone), whereas Jordan B got the least and Brandon B won.

For the first part of the lesson with Zoë, she assigned pairs with a topic to research - these are all the different risks of upgrading/installing software and different methods of minimising these risks. I was paired up with Tom L where we created and pitched a Power Point about how 'Backups & System Restores'. This went relatively quick and I made notes as a result of this - I found this to be helpful and enjoyable. Soon later, Zoë had explained the P2 and D2 of U29_A2 (leaving M2 for now). We also created a RAG (red, amber and green) chart about the likelihood and severity of said risks and how it can be minimised.

For the remaining part of the time until lunch, I typed away on U29_A2. A strength of today was being focused and learning all these potential risks and minimising methods of installing/upgrading software. An inspiration is Zoë herself because she is knowledgeable in this field and brings confidence. To reflect, I aim to get this section done by tonight and tomorrow in hopes of completing U29_A2 before Friday, the start of Half Term break.

Aim: Please find below the objectives for today's lesson.

Objectives:
*Have completed gathering data.
*Discuss factors that may affect the validity of data.
*Construct different graphical forms of data collected.
*Calculate mean, median, mode and interquartile range.

In today's maths lesson, a lot happened. We firstly got our U26_A2T1 and T2 back - I had a look and talked about it with Emily in order for me to understand what I have to do. Next, Emily gave us a test with 20 questions on both Maths related and Trivia related - her hypothesis is that most of us should be better at Maths than general knowledge - this is true as we all scored better on the maths. We also timed ourselves and measured ourselves as well as telling her how many hours we gamed recently and plotted them into tables. All of this will eventually be turned into graphs. For mine, since it is qualitative data I will be using Emily's results as secondary data to help back up my hypothesis even more. At the end of the day, I made a list of what to do and asked Emily to reconfirm my understanding.

Overall, Maths has been difficult but fun once again. I hope I can ask her for help when I am stuck. I will be working on U29_A2 and U26_A4T2. I also submitted U29_A1.

New Unit! Installing and Upgrading Software!

Aim: To understand why software needs installing and upgrading.

Objectives:
*All: Explain the difference between updates, upgrades and installations of new software.
*Describe the potential prompts that initiate the installation of new or upgraded software.
*Most: Explain the advantages and potential disadvantages of installation or upgrade of new
software.
*Some: Justify the importance of installing and upgrading/updating antivirus protection.

Hello!

Over the weekend at home, I have successfully completed all of my resubmissions - U41_A2 and U41_A3. I have also filled in the Scheme of Assessment and fixed my portfolio.

Upon coming to college today, the first thing I did was submit the entire previous unit. Zoë has returned to being our tutor and we began the first technical unit - Installing & Upgrading Software U29. Before the activity, I dragged across the new unit folder structure and completed the initial survey. I answered the survey honestly because I admit I am not very technical but it is indeed interesting to know.

Our first activity was working in groups to come up with the definitions and differences between updating, upgrading and installing software. I worked with Brandon B, Alex S and Matthew T. This was relatively easy as we also had class discussion for feedback and made notes. In addition to this, Zoë also explained to us the different reasons for home and business users to upgrade/install software and also its advantages and disadvantages. At the end of the day, Zoë introduced us the first pass, merit and distinction criteria. 

Throughout the day, I have been working on U29_A1 and completing my written work with detail yet succinctly. I have aimed to reach at least near completion of the first assignment and I ensured quality by proof reading. A strength today was the previous statement and myself focusing.

Moreover, today Adam also showed us his portfolio and Creative Sponge's portfolio. This has been my inspiration because he told us quality tips for pitching, presenting and laying out the work. Comparing his to mine, I can finally rest my case and not worry too much because I know I have made my portfolio right. My interview is in two days and so I also prepared by asking Catherine my final questions. 

Reflecting on today, it has been productive and the time is well spent. I will proof read U29_A1 over independent study time and practice intensely on my portfolio pitching skills for the upcoming interview. That's all for today.

Peace!

3D Modelling... Finished!

Aim: Finish U41.

Objectives
*Be inspired by learner’s work.
*Review your mind maps (from the 7th Jan).
*Complete the Kahoot Quiz.
*Complete the End of unit survey.
*Proofread and submit U41A3T2.
*Proofread and submit U41A3T3.
*Submit Unit 35 correctly.

I have good news. Over the independent study time of Tuesday and Wednesday, I have completed my portfolio, fixed up my sketchbook, finished U41_A3T2 and finished U41_A1 resubmission - I am proud.

At the start of the day, Adam talked to us about another inspiring quote. We also had an opportunity to open our Blender work and show the class - I think this is good for setting an 'average standard' and allows hard workers to be recognised.  Adam also talked about his communication and development about work - personally I think he is organised and punctuated. Next, we had a Kahoot quiz made by Adam in regards to U41 - a total of eight questions, I got all eight right but did not get duo monitors because everyone aced it. To finish some paper work, I filled out the end of unit survey, corrected the Scheme of Assessment and started to fill it in.

During break, I showed Adam my portfolio and he gave me clear constructive criticism. I installed a font (to keep consistency) and created a label for my portfolio and sketchbook. This made my folders look a bit more personalised and unique. 

Throughout the first half of the day, I began and finished U41_A3T3. The work was generally about reviewing my work and hitting the criteria. This was relatively easy but took some time because I like my work quality assured. I also asked Adam to look at my U41_A1 resubmission before I submitted. At the end, the only outstanding work is to fill the SoA (after he marks my work) and U41_A2 resubmission (due 11th). 

As a result, I am not coming in tomorrow! (sleep 3:) To reflect on today, my workload and work speed has improved drastically because I plan out exactly what I intend to do and focus on it whilst getting good sleep. I will be back Monday! Thank you to Adam for teaching us. My advice for someone doing this unit again would be to plan out their time. 

Please find below the objectives for today's lesson.

*Collect data.
*Carry out your planned method of data collection efficiently and effectively.
*Consider what makes up a good questionnaire.
*Give constructive feedback.
*Take and record measurements accurately.

Maths was really fun. We firstly did an IQ and speed test! Then we did a spelling test. Then an exercise HBPM test. Then my interviews! It was fun and these responses will be perfect for my data collection.

3D Model Render + Production Journal!

Aim: Create a 3D Model and write supporting evidence.

Objectives for the day:
*A-Z of knowledge.
*Consider criteria for A3.
*Use Blender.
*Begin U41 A3 T2 – creation evidence.
*Complete U35 and submit.
*Complete Re-submissions for A2.

Today I came into a college with a plan. My to do and must complete is to: Finish the lighting of mode, finish colouring model, render the model and start my production journal.

The starter we had was to look at inspiration on this website, find an artist we like and talk about their work. One of the things Adam stated was the thirds of lighting/contrast in art. I remember applying this to my ink portrait for my portfolio. It has been beneficial because it allowed me to consider a little about the composition and environment. In addition to this, we also did an A-Z Blender activity challenge where we had to link a relevant terminology for each of the alphabet. In the end, myself, Ed, Matthew T and Alex S won! I got a Kit Kat.

Returning back to coursework, I firstly positioned the lighting (called suns) and screenshotted this to be explained later. This helped light up my model for more visibility. A strength of this was being able to understand how the lighting affects the mesh, however a weakness is that I required a lot of additional lighting because the texture I previously used is presumably dark.

Furthermore, I also learnt how to colour and this has been the most fun yet challenging part of modelling. I used a lot of trial and error to work may way around but I also used a useful tutorial that Grant Abbitt (3D Modeller) forwarded to Adam for me. I spent some time of the day messaging around and learning around the render options - this has also been a strength but my weakness was needing to re-render a lot to see the changes I have changed.

My 3D Model Concept

Later on this day, we had another group activity where we covered the necessities of U41_A3T3. I worked with Chris and we both created a thought shower that reflected against industry practice and how well we did. We worked incredibly well together when focused.

To reflect upon this day, it has been an amazing and progressive session. Though I am tired, I can improve on getting more rest and being a little more specific - I sometimes experiment too much and consume too much time. My goals are to get the production journal of my 3D model (U41_A3T2) complete at home, finish my portfolio within this week, tidy up my sketchbook and get my U41_A1 resubmission complete to be checked on Thursday with Adam.

See you Thursday!