Thursday, December 14, 2006

Implementing NI/AD - 12/14/2006

Today, we combined forces and everyone took both finals. Then, for those who wanted to stick around and try it, we attempted setting up a RIS (Remote Installation Server). I had never done one before, so it was a learning experience for all of us. Several of you stuck around while we fought through, and as we hit various obstacles, you guys slowly trickled away until I was alone, determined to figure this $#@$ thing out.

I ended up setting up another machine and formatting it with a 2GB partition. THAT WORKED! The problem was that our source machine (Brett's) system partition was too big for the RIS partition we had set up. We had been doing everything right. Go figure.

So anyway, all of the imaging, etc. was sent to the Chester server (huh, chester server... huh huh) and when I booted an empty client machine I got... nothing. After a tiny bit of research, I discovered that I had been incorrectly informed last year when I started this gig: our network cards are not PXE complient. So yeah, it would'a worked! But, it didn't. Eh, well.

Guys, I will see all of you back here the week of January 8 for the new Winter Quarter (and new 2003 Server requirements!!!) Get excited! Have a great break!

Tuesday, December 12, 2006

Marketing - 12/12/2006

fin.

Homework:
  • Have a great holiday! See you on January 8.

CompTIA A+ Software - 12/12/2006

The final was taken today -- most of them in the morning hardware class!

I'll have a number of you next semester in Network+. I've told you guys that I've been debating on whether or not to have the third edition of Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide by Mike Meyers as an additional required text (not available from the bookstore). However, even if I don't require it, I will pull HEAVILY from it and I urge you to get your hands on a copy!!! If you look, you can find some used copies of this cheap (especially since college courses across the country are ending and students are wanting to sell used textbooks!)

Here are just a few places you can look:

There are lots of others out there too, so make sure you do a good web search before just plopping down 60 bucks and making some retailer rich.

Homework:

  • Have a great break!

CompTIA A+ Hardware - 12/12/2006

Wow, another semester comes to an end. I don't know about you guys, but I can't believe all of this is over already!

Anyway, today's only activity was taking the final.

Homework:
  • Enjoy your break
  • Spend time with your friends and family
  • Eat lotsa lotsa food
  • Come back in January rested and ready to go!

Monday, December 11, 2006

LAST MINUTE EXTRA CREDIT!

Here's a last minute opportunity to get those grades up a little higher!

For 20 points extra credit, read this article and write a one page summary of it, including what you think the implications of this new technology will be.

This is due NO LATER than the BEGINNING of the class you want to apply the points. Feel free to split these points among a couple of different classes if you like, but just make sure that the paper is turned in BEFORE any class you want points applied to begins.

Remember, this is extra credit and is not required. If you don't have time/don't see this until too late/or whatever, that's fine, it won't negatively affect your grade.

Thursday, December 07, 2006

Implementing Active Directory -- 12/7/2006

It's a good thing it's the end of the semester, because AD wasn't working!! WTF!!

Anyway, I didn't feel like busting us down the long, trecherous road of figuring out exactly why, so we just did a lot of "imagine if" lessons. Then, we played around with Security Templates and the Security Configuration Editor. Fun stuff was had by all.

Homework:
  • Review Questions at the end of Chapter 13
  • Read Chapter 14 on your own
  • Be ready for a test (we'll review before taking it)
  • We're going to play around with doing a RIS install. It'll be my first time too, so we'll all learn together!!!

Implementing Network Infrastructure -- 12/7/2006

Hey guys, welcome back. I haven't seen you guys in class since... oh, November 9?? That's like a month! Wow.

Ok, anyway, today we finished up the book today by covering Chapter 14, which included Network Monitor, Performance Monitor and other basic ways of keeping tabs on your system

Homework:
  • Do the reviews at the end of each lesson

Wednesday, December 06, 2006

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 12/6/2006

More computer fixing. I watched Kaitlyn and Kevin watch a computer defrag that Jeremy had brought in. Pretty boring stuff.

Homework:
  • No homework!

Troubleshooting - 12/6/2006

This morning we fixed two more computers.

Homework:
  • No homework!

Tuesday, December 05, 2006

CompTIA A+ Software - 12/5/2006

More Transcenders. This afternoon, we made it a little more interesting by dividing up into teams and competing for 20 points (not grade points) added to each winning team member's grade. Nice job John McEnroe Experience!

Same as the Hardware class: on your grade sheet, if you see a red star, I need to see you next week.

Homework:

  • Study for your final, if necessary.
  • Otherwise, have a fun Christmas break!

CompTIA A+ Hardware - 12/5/2006

Today we passed out grades and did Transcenders. Remember, if your grade sheet has a red star on it, I need to see you next Tuesday, December 12 for the 400 point final!!!! If there is no star, I don't need to see you.

If you weren't in class today, you will need to come next week.

Homework:
  • Study for your final, if necessary
  • Otherwise, have a great holiday break! See you next quarter!

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

ATTN: Thursday Classes!!!

I caught most of you, but for those I didn't catch: I will not be in class on Thursday due to some meetings I need to attend. Please read and do exercises for Chapter 13 in the Network Infrastructure book and Chapter 12 in the Active Directory book.

I'm really sorry for being out again, but I promise, it's out of my control!!

Random fact: this is Ben's Blog's 300th post!

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 11/29/2006

Today we took a break from our computer repair and watched a demonstration of an install and use of Windows Vista, which is due out tomorrow (or Jan. 30, whichever method you're going to use to get it.

Homework:
  • No homework!

Troubleshooting - 11/29/2006

More computer fixin!

Homework:
  • No homework!

Tuesday, November 28, 2006

Marketing - 11/28/2006

Testing... testing... 1, 2... 3?

Tonight's class consisted of just the test over Chapters 7, 8, 16. Remember, next week is the Personal Sales Workshop, worth a whopping 100 points!!! Make sure that you're here! Bring a pencil and a keen understanding of the 7 steps in personal sales.

If you missed the test tonight, I will need you to stick around after class next week and take a modified version of it.

Homework:
  • No homework!!!

CompTIA A+ Software - 11/28/2006

Today marked the final day of lecture for our A+ class and covered the relatively short Chapter 13, in which we covered all kinds of preventative maintenance. Luckily, most of it is common sense, like, don't stick a screwdriver in an open light-socket and don't pour coffee down the ventilation holes of your monitor. Other things, like the book's suggestion of reformatting your hard drive every year are a bit unorthodox, but hey, it doesn't mean it doesn't work. Just make sure you do your backups (and know what the differences are between all of the different backup types too!)

Next week, we will continue the morning class tradition of doing Transcender practice exams and I will have all of your homework graded and tallied up too. You'll know next week whether or not I need to see you on December 12 for a final. Can ya believe we're almost finished???

Homework:
  • Chapter 13 - Review Questions 1-15
  • Chapter 13 - Exam Questions 1-10

CompTIA A+ Hardware - 11/28/2006

This morning's class consisted of the test over Chapters 4-7. There was a 14 point curve, but I still would have liked to have seen higher test scores.

Eric Beller mentioned that he is going to try for his A+ certifications before December 31, and I think that's a good idea. Taking them after January 1 means that you'll have a new set of requirements (details found here). The same information that we've covered will be available -- don't worry about that -- it's just that it will be in a slightly reorganized format.

Remember, next week, make sure that you are in class, as we will be having a very point-valuable Transcender day next week. I'll also have your homework graded and your grades tallied up to that point so you'll know whether or not you have to come in for the final on December 12.

Homework:
  • No Homework!!!

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 11/22/2006

It was more computer fixing for us today too! We finished up two computers that we had been working on -- one for quite a while.
  1. Remember that computer last week that would power on and then nothing would happen? Check the entry below for the Troubleshooting class on what happened there.
  2. Mark Cox's computer is FINISHED! Mark gave us permission to run the system restore partition on his computer thereby refreshing back to its brand new status. It's kind of cheating, yeah, but still, it's fixed now, running smooth and most importantly, out of our hands.
  3. Donna Hudson had a computer she wanted us to totally wipe out and reinstall Windows 98. After a few driver diversions, the computer was finished and she picked it up!

Homework:

  • No homework!!

Troubleshooting - 11/22/2006

More computer fixin', as usual. Here's a summary of what we went through today:
  1. The computer that would power on for a second and then turned off turned out to be a HUGE mass of dust/gunk clogging up the main fan and the heat sink. Although we didn't know for sure, we decided that the processor and/or motherboard were shot. The woman who owns the computer is going back to the shop that had originally "repaired" it to get her money back.
  2. Ted's friend Karen now has a working Windows ME machine after installing a new hard drive and controller!
  3. Joe and Katie fixed Brenda Pedigo's computer by removing the 600+ spyware files and now it runs much, much smoother.
  4. Brett PASSED HIS PRO EXAM! Give this boy a cracker.

Homework:

  • No homework!

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

Marketing - 11/21/2006

Tonight's class was over (the first half of) Chapter 16 -- Personal Sales. We talked about various sales techniques and varying ways that sales managers and salespeople operate in their own "areans". We also talked about the 7 steps of the selling process, which are:
  1. Prospecting/Qualifying
  2. Preapproach
  3. Approach
  4. Presentation
  5. Handling Objections
  6. Closing the Sale
  7. Follow-up

We then turned our attention to the test that is scheduled next week, and I handed out a study guide designed to help you prepare.

Here is the lineup as I foresee it for the rest of the semester:

  • November 28: Test: Chapters 7, 8, 16
  • December 5: Sales Workshop (worth 100 pts!!!!!!!!), Find out if you need to take the final.
  • December 12: Final Exam.

Homework:

  • Study for your test!!!

Peace out.

CompTIA A+ Software - 11/21/2006

Today in class we talked about different troubleshooting and fixing methods such as Emergency Repair Disk, backups, Device Manager, yadda yadda yadda.

Homework:
* No Homework!

CompTIA A+ Hardware - 11/21/2006

Hands-on!!!!

That was the theme today, as each one of us got a piece-o-doodie computer to take apart and put back together. As you guys were doing this, I made a nuisance out of myself and walked around and quizzed you on the particulars of the various computer parts that you were playing with.

Homework:
* No homework!
* Test next week on Ch. 4-7. BE READY!

Friday, November 17, 2006

Implementing Active Directory -- 11/16/2006

See below post. I had 9 lbs of snot in my head and I couldn't move. Think: cold turkey gravy.

Mmm...

Homework:
  • Chapter 11 - Lesson Reviews

Implementing Network Infrastructure -- 11/16/2006

Hey guys, I hope no one's too terribly pissed -- remember Wednesday when I was kinda floaty from all the cough medicine? Well, I was down with the sickness on Thursday and could hardly move when I woke up at 7:15 (which is about 1.5 hours late for me!!!).

I hope everyone's not too terribly put out by me calling class at the last minute.

In case you didn't get the homework...

Homework:
  • Chapter 12 - Lesson Reviews

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 11/15/2006

Today we too started our first day of PC repair days with three computers. One was the same computer we've been having trouble with so far and have been trying to fix via HijackThis! and the others had power supply problems. Yee-haw!

Homework:
* No Homework!

Troubleshooting - 11/15/2006

Today we embarked on our brand new computer repair class. We had a whopping two computers to work on, but it worked well, I think. Hopefully, word of mouth will spread and we'll get lots more!

Homework:
* No homework!

Tuesday, November 14, 2006

Marketing - 11/14/2006

Tonight was a weird night, thanks for playing along. We did Chapter 8, which was about the product, and all of the things -- including the tangible thing -- that go into the product. Since I had to be out the first hour of class, we had a period where you guys worked on the homework, and then when I got to class, we discussed it (make sureyou still turn it in next week!!!!)

Homework:
* Chapter 8 - Discussing the Concepts Questions 1-6.
CompTIA A+ Software - 11/14/2006

In today's class you received your Transcender software and we went through a trial run of using it. I would HIGHLY recommend you guys use this software to prepare for your certifications! (Remember, if you pass a certification before the class is over, you get an A for that class!!!)

Homework:
* No homework!
CompTIA A+ Hardware -- 11/14/2006

Ben’s Blog is Back!

Woo-hoo! I finally have everything fixed on the laptop and I am proud to say that I’m back up running again. Sorry for the couple of weeks of dead air.

Today’s class was devoted to getting our quarterly schedules all squared away. I believe I’ve talked to everyone in the class and everyone should be ready to go

Homework:
No homework!

Friday, October 27, 2006

Implementing AD - 10/26/2006

My hungry self was in overdrive for the afternoon class today, and we ran through Chapter 8, which was all about Group Administration.  Remember the different types of groups and the scopes of groups that are out there.  It’s really important!

Homework:
  • The Lesson Review Questions at the end of Chapter 8

Implementing NI - 10/26/2006

This morning was kind of a weird morning.  It started out with a test in the library, and then moved to about 50 minutes of classtime (Chapter 9, WINS) around 9 o’clock.  I then had to go to a meeting which lasted promptly until the next class’s start time.  Ugh.

Homework:
  • Do the Lessson Review Questions at the end of Lessons 1, 3, 4

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 10/25/2006

We finished the book in today’s class too.  Next week, we’ll have a test over everything (we’ll review first), and then we’ll talk about (and possibly start) our computer repair component.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 11 – M/C Questions

  • Chapter 12 – M/C Questions

Troubleshooting - 10/25/2006

This morning we finished our book!  Woo!!!

Next week, we’ll start repairing on some computers!  I already have a couple we can work on.

Homework:
  • Chapter 11 Review Questions

Marketing - 10/24/2006

Test!  Test!  Test!

Today we had a test over chapters 1-5.  Overall, the grades were great!  Remember, next week is Halloween, and we are not having class!  I’ll see you guys again on the following Tuesday, November 7.

Homework:
  • No Homework!

CompTIA A+ Software - 10/24/2006

In today’s class, we had a test over Chapters 8 and 9, and then covered the Windows XP section of Chapter 10.

Homework:
  • Chapter 10 – Review Questions 1-15

  • Chapter 10 – Exam Questions 1-10

CompTIA A+ Hardware - 10/24/2006

Wow, I got through my whole week of school without posting to the blog.  Oops!  

In the A+ class, we covered Chapter 6, which was everything you wanted to know (and more) about Printers!  

Homework:
  • Chapter 6 – Review Questions 1-15

  • Chapter 6 – Exam Questions 1-10

Sunday, October 22, 2006

Implementing Active Directory - 10/19/2006

Chapters 6 and 7 were the topics at hand today, dealing with Sites and with Users and Groups.  We had quite a bit of hands on today, and hopefully you enjoyed it.  Look for a test in a couple of weeks (and look for lotsa hands-on on that test!)

Homework:
  • Chapter 6 - Review Questions 1-5

  • Chapter 7 – Review Questions

Implementing Network Infrastructure - 10/19/2006

This morning’s class covered Chapters 7 & 8, which dealt with DNS.  Be ready for a test next week!!!

Homework:
  • Chapter 7 - Lesson 1: Questions 1-4

  • Chapter 7 - Lesson 2: Review: 1-3

  • Chapter 7 - Lesson 3: Review 1-3

  • Chapter 8 - Lesson 1: Review 1-3

  • Chapter 8 - Lesson 3: Review 1-3

  • Chapter 8 - Lesson 4 Review: Questions 1-3

  • Chapter 8 - Lesson 5 Review: Questions 1-3

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 10/18/2006

I had to be out for a large part of today’s class, so I had you guys install Windows 2000 on the class’s VMWare programs.  We’ll play with those starting next week.

Homework:
  • Chapter Ten – Review Questions

Troubleshooting - 10/18/2006

Today’s class covered Chapter 10, which was a pretty big review of concepts we are covering in other classes.  Great job today.

Also, congrats goes to Brett, who passed his 70-271 today, and therefore earns an A in this class.  Way to go Brett!

Homework:
  • Chapter 10 – Review Questions 1-10

Tuesday, October 17, 2006

Marketing - 10/17/2006

Tonight we talked about Chapter 5, which was consumer behavior.  We looked at several of the factors that play into how a customer comes to the purchasing decision and discussed a few ways that marketers try to manipulate those.

Homework:
  • No homework

  • Study for your test! (Chapters 1-5)

CompTIA A+ Software - 10/17/2006

This afternoon we installed Windows 2000 and VMWare.  Next week, we will reattempt our failed Windows NT4 installation and talk about Windows 2000.  Can’t you guys wait until we talk about Windows XP AND install it at the same time?  Wow, has that even happened yet?

Oh.

STUDY FOR YOUR SOFTWARE TEST!
CHAPTER 8 AND 9!

CompTIA A+ Hardware - 10/17/2006

This morning we covered (the extremely long) chapter 5, which primarly was an introduction to Net +.  

Homework:
  • Review Questions 1-15

  • Exam Questions 1-10

Friday, October 13, 2006

Implementing Active Directory - 10/12/2006

DNS was the topic at hand today.  Know how it works, and all that jazz.  I’ll give you a hint: it’s in Chapter 5.

Homework:
  • Lesson Three: Review Questions 1-5 (pg 153)

Implementing Network Infrastructure - 10/12/2006

We talked about routing technologies today, in Chapter Six.

Homework:
  • Lesson 1: Lesson Review 1-5 (pg 205-206)

  • Lesson 2: Lesson Review 1-3 (pg 222-223)

  • Lesson 3: Lesson Review 1-8 (pg 234)

Wednesday, October 11, 2006

Windows 2000 OS/Networking - 10/11/2006

Today’s class covered Chapters 8 and 9 – Network Administration and Accounts/Groups.  

Also!  The computers in our lab have VMWare installed on them, which means we’ll actually be able to install an operating system and play around with some of the things we’ve been discussing.  Really cool news.

Homework:
  • Chapter 8 – M/C Questions

  • Chapter 9 – M/C Questions

Troubleshooting - 10/11/2006

This morning we went through Chapters 8 and 9, which dealt with dealing with hard drives (basic vs. dynamic, etc.) and printers, respectively.

Homework:
  • Chapter 9 – Scenario 9-1.

Marketing - 10/10/2006

Tonight we listened to Nick Brown, from WBKO, talk about the various impacts that marketing has in our lives including, pretty importantly, marketing ourselves.  

Homework:
  • No Homework!

Tuesday, October 10, 2006

CompTIA A+ Software - 10/10/2006

Scott Duvall from Holland CPAs was our guest of honor today, and I feel he did a good job of summing up what he does at Holland and gave you guys a pretty decent picture of what the job outlook is for today.  

Our planned project of installing Windows Me after Scott left was finished in the morning, so after his presentation, we called it a day!  See you guys next week!

Homework:
  • No Homework!

CompTIA A+ Hardware - 10/10/2006

Unfortunately, Josh Smith from Peterbilt was unable to join us for class today due to some last minute training that came up.  So we just took our test and then did the Software project a little early – installing Windows Me!  Woo!

Homework:
  • No Homework today!  Woohaw!

Sunday, October 01, 2006

Implementing Active Directory - 9/28/2006

We also did Chapter Three in the AD class today.  We covered various AD tools at our disposal such as the Schema MMC snap-in (make sure you know how to do this guys!!!), Task Scheduler, and other stuff too.

Homework:
  • Lesson 4: Review Questions (pg 85)

Implementing Network Infrastructure - 9/28/2006

Today we covered Chapter 3, which was implementing TCP/IP.  We walked through how to install the TCP/IP stack (although it was already installed for us when we installed Server) and then played with several of the TCP/IP tools in class.

Homework:

  • Lesson1:

  • Exercise 1 (pg 90)

  • Lesson Review (pg 91-92)

  • Lesson 2:

  • Exercise 1 (pg 106)

  • Lesson Review (107)

Wednesday, September 27, 2006

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 9/27/2006

We covered the customization of Windows today, which is to say we changed all the purty colors of our desktop and monkeyed around with the screen saver program and some other stuff too.

Homework:
  • Multiple Choice Questions – Ch 5

Troubleshooting - 9/27/2006

Today’s class covered Chapter Five, which was over file and folder properties, including permissions, offline files and encryption.  We skipped talking about Effective Permissions, but make sure you read it!!

Homework:
  • Questions 2, 3, 6, 8, 9

Tuesday, September 26, 2006

Marketing - 9/26/2006

Tonight we covered Chapter Three.  Here’s how I envision October shaping up:

  • 10/3: Chapter 4

  • 10/10: Nick Brown, WBKO-TV

  • 10/17: Chapter 5

  • 10/24: Test over Ch 1-5!Chapter 6

  • 10/31: Happy Halloween!  No Class!

Sound good?  Let me know if you have any questions or objections.

Homework:
  • No Homework!

CompTIA A+ Software - 9/26/2006

Today we talked about Windows 98, and the differences between Win98 and Win95.  While I was talking about that, we tried installing Windows 98 and had much better luck this time!  However, we got to a point to where we were told the PCI controller was incompatible with Windows 98.  That’s right.  Our computers are too new to be installing Windows 98.  Hopefully we’ll have better luck with Windows Me next week.

Homework:
  • No Homework!

  • Study for your Hardware Test!

CompTIA A+ Hardware - 9/26/2006

Today we talked about Chapter Three: I/O systems in a computer.  By popular demand, we’re having a test next week over Chapters 1-3.  Make sure you study!!!

Oh.  KNOW YOUR IRQs!

Homework:
  • Ch 3 Questions 1-15; 1-10

  • Study Chapters 1-3 for test!

Thursday, September 21, 2006

The Yeses Have It!

Ok, I think I’ve had the survey up long enough – I’m going to be putting up the names of everyone who has passed various certifications.  Please let me know what you’ve passed.  I’m going to try going on memory, but we all know how that turns out!

Implementing Active Directory - 9/21/2006

Today’s class covered (admittedly, not very well) Chapter 2, which went over the basics of Active Directory, and all of the other fun stuff that we’ll be doing this semester.

Homework:
  • Review questions at the end of Chapter 2.

Implementing Network Infrastructure - 9/21/2006

This morning we covered Chapter 2, which was an introduction to TCP/IP and all of its inner workings.

Homework:
  • Lesson 1, Ex. 2 (pg 45), Lesson Review 1-5.

  • Lesson 2, Lesson Review 1-5

  • Lesson 3, Lesson Review 1-7

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 9/20/2006

Today we covered Chapters 3 and 4, dealing with DOS commands and Windows utilities, respectively.

Homework:
  • Chapter 3 – M/C Questions

  • Chapter 4 – M/C Questions

Wednesday, September 20, 2006

Troubleshooting - 9/20/2006

Installing Windows XP into Virtual PC was the topic of the day, along with covering Chapters 3 and 4.

Homework:
  • Chapter 3 – Questions 2, 4

  • Chapter 4 – Question 1

Tuesday, September 19, 2006

CompTIA A+ Software - 9/19/2006

Whew.  What a day.  Today we talked about Chapter 9, specifically about Windows 95.  To go along with Windows 95, I was going to have you guys install Windows 95.  That didn’t work.  So, I decided on Windows 98.  Then we had our startup disk problem.  Once I got that resolved, I realized that we didn’t have proper Product Keys!  @#$@#$

Homework:
  • Never install Win9x on a computer.  There is no need.

CompTIA A+ Hardware - 9/19/2006

Today we covered Chapter Two, which was about the motherboard and all the little intricacies on it, such as the processor, the RAM, the chipset, the expansion slots, etc.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 2: Questions 1-15; Questions 1-10

Thursday, September 14, 2006

Implementing Active Directory - 9/14/2006

Our first day of class was sacrificed for the job fair at WKU’s South Campus.  See below post.  Hope everyone had a positive experience there.

Homework:
  • No Homework here either!
    

Implementing Network Infrastructure - 9/14/2006

Today being the first day, we worked on getting Virtual PC installed on our computers – which turned out to be more of a task than expected.  Grr Sp4!

Anyway, by the time we had that done, I had yammered through Chapter One, which compared the OSI model we learned in Net+ to the actual process that Windows uses.  After that, we left class for the job fair.  Hopefully everyone at the very least networked with lots of people, and maybe even planted a seed that will lead to a job.  That’s why we’re all here, isn’t it?

Homework:
  • No Homework this week!  

Wednesday, September 13, 2006

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 9/13/2006

Today we covered the first two chapters of the book.  Make sure you’re here next week, we’ll cover Chapter 3 (really important) and 4 then.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 1 – Questions 1-11

  • Chapter 2 – Questions 1-20

Troubleshooting - 9/13/2006

Welcome back from break!  Our first day of troubleshooting class – instead of being a straight up computer repair session – looked at the first two chapters of a book based on Microsoft exam 70-271.  This is exciting news because the 70-291 exam will get you MCP and is relatively easy compared to other MS exams that you’ll be taking.  I really encourage you guys to cram this new book hard (OK, that sounded bad…) and get out there and pass this cert ASAP!!!

In other news, we covered Chapters 1 & 2.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 1 – Questions 2-4, 7

  • Chapter 2 – Questions 1-5, 7, Scenario 2-1.  

Tuesday, September 12, 2006

Marketing - 9/12/2006

Welcome to the first class of Basic Marketing!  Tonight we did a really quick overview of what marketing is and how it is so important to the businesses.  We specifically talked about how it is important to know your customer, because it is ultimately the customer that decides whether or not your business thrives.  

We then watched a video on a company that seems to know its customer well: Subaru.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 1 – Questions 2 & 4 (pg 30)
    

CompTIA A+ Software - 9/12/2006

After lunch, we started our software class, which was Chapter 8 – an introduction to Operating Systems.  I used MS-DOS as a launching pad and we went over basic components of that operating system (IO.SYS, MSDOS.SYS, CONFIG.SYS, etc.)  Next week: Windows 95!  Yee-haw!

Homework:
  • Chapter 8 – All Questions (1-10; 1-15)

CompTIA A+ Hardware - 9/12/2006

Welcome back to Draughons and welcome to A+!  Today, after brief introductions, we dove headfirst into chapter 1, and as a result, headfirst into a computer.  We briefly went over the basics of computer hardware and got a little preview of what we’ll be covering in this class.

Homework:
  • Chapter 1 – Both sets of questions (1-15; 1-10)

Wednesday, September 06, 2006

Get Ready... EXTRA CREDIT!!!

I know what you’re thinking.

Ben.  After an entire semester of NO extra credit, you’re offering it NOW?  Before the next semester even starts???

Why, yes.  Yes I am.

Check out this article on how Windows Vista handles DNS.  After you are finished, type up a 1 page summary of the article and offer up your own opinion on the increased DNS traffic: big deal or no problem?  This summary is worth a maximum of 10 points and is due no later than September 21.  E-mail them or turn them in to me in person.  Your call.

Who can get in on this greasy extra credit action?  Well, I specifically thought of my Implementing Network Infrastructure class on Thursday morning, but any of my classes can participate.  That includes you, Tuesday night Marketing class (although I don’t expect any Marketing people to participate).

If you have me for more than one class, you can choose to apply all 10 points to one class or to divide them up between as many classes as you want.  

Oh.  And just to see if anyone is reading this over the break, I’ll throw in an extra 5 points for any turned in before September 12.  

Saturday, September 02, 2006

I'm Trying Writely...

Hey guys, hope everyone's having a great break. I've been busy studying and preparing for Fall 2006 -- it's coming up so fast I can hardly believe it.

Recently, Google developed Google Spreadsheets, which is an online-based spreadsheet program and, to stay in the attack-MS-Office vein, they recently purchased Writely, which is an online word processor. What's really cool is that you can save your documents to the web and access them anywhere by simply logging in.

After a brief period of new account lockouts, Google has allowed people to sign up for Writely again. I've discovered that it doesn't quite hold up to what *I* need it to do for tests and whatnot, but what I'm trying now is the Blogging feature.

If you're interested in checking Writely out, go to www.writely.com.

Thursday, August 24, 2006

MS Frontpage - 8/24/2006

“It’s oooooooooooverrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!” – Roy Orbison.

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 8/23/2006

Yo homies, today we celebrated the last day of school by eating some of Kim’s totally AWESOME shrimp gumbo and watching Napoleon Dynamite.  We then fixed Matthew’s step-mother’s computer for her.

Guys, this has been a GREAT class and I’ve really enjoyed hanging out with you this semester.  See you in September!

Homework:
  • Study for certs

  • Look for a job

  • Lounge around and do nothing

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

Pro/Server - 8/22/2006

Today was a slightly weird Pro/Server day in that in the morning, I covered the last two chaptesr in the book – Chapters 13 and 14, and then in the afternoon we had the FINAL.  It felt weird, since I’ve never lectured on the last day of class (much less the second-to-last day of class), but yeah, we made it.  

Enjoy your break, and I’ll see ya’s guys next semester, eh?

CompTIA Network+ Training = 8/21/2006

Tonight, we did Transcenders.  And then more.  You guys rock, seriously.

Homework:
  • No Homework!  Study everything for the final next Monday!

Monday, August 21, 2006

Marketing - 8/21/2006

Today we finished up the class (sniff, sniff) by taking our last test and by doing our “Personal Sales Workshop”.  Great job on both guys, and see!  I do bring doughnuts!

If I need to see you next week for the final, (e-mail me if you’re not sure) the best advice I can offer you is to study your past tests.  

Homework:
  • No homework!  

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 8/16/2006

Today we kept on pace by fixing computers.  Next week, we NEED to finish the computer that we’re putting the DVD drive into.  Also, make sure you bring your designated meal thing (I’ve got the crackers!) and we’ll watch Napoleon Dynamite (yesssssssssss).  

Homework:
  • No Homework!

Pro/Server - 8/15/2006

Today we covered Chapters 11 and 12, which dealt with Configuring Win2K Network Connections and User security, policies and profiles, respectfully.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 11 – Questions 1-11

  • Chapter 12 – Questions 1-17

EDIT: Thanks to Brian White for bringing to my attention that blog postings weren’t appearing!

Monday, August 14, 2006

Marketing - 8/14/2006

Today we covered Chapter 16, the chapter on Personal Selling.  We talked about the different challenges that a sales manager faces in dealing with such topics as motivation, compensation and logistics when working with his/her sales team.  In addition, we also talked about the seven steps of the sales process.  Make sure you know this!!!  You will definitely see it again, at least twice!

Also, next week, we will have what for some of you will be the last test, over chapters 6, 7, 8 and 16.  After that, we will be putting into practice what we learned in chapter 16 and completing the long-awaited Personal Sales Workshop.  It should be lots of fun!

Homework:
  • No homework, other than STUDY FOR YOUR FREAKING TEST!

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 8/9/2006

Today we had our second “open” day and fixed (or at least tried to fix) two computers.  One had a pretty much FRIED processor, and the other Win9x machine just had a bunch of spyware.  Great job today, guys!

Homework:
  • No Homework!

Tuesday, August 08, 2006

Pro/Server - 8/8/2006

Today’s class covered Chapters 9 & 10.

Homework:
  • Chapter 9 – Questions 1-18

  • Chapter 10 – Questions 1-17

Monday, August 07, 2006

Yo MSE Students!

I know that a lot of you read this blog immediately before and after class, and since I have a majority of you either on Monday or Tuesday, I’m going to post this now, and hopefully as many of you as possible will be able to see it.

First and foremost, the idea to post on the bulletin board who has passed which certifications struck me last Wednesday, and I want to hear from you, the MSE student what you think of it!  My reasoning is in a lower posting to this blog, so I won’t repeat it here, but seriously, PLEASE vote and let me know what you’d like to do!

Also, I’ve started a Google Calendar to coincide with this blog.  The blog does a great job of telling students what we’ve done, but it doesn’t do a great job of telling students what we will be doing.  The link to the calendar is over on the right, also, you can get there by clicking here.   I believe you must have an account with Google in order to see this.  It’s worth it though, believe me.  

If you haven’t scheduled for Fall 2006 yet, I NEED TO SEE YOU NOW!  

Finally, I’ve begun posting computer related jobs that I find to the bulletin board.  This is by no means an exhaustive, or even up-to-date list, so I must implore you to keep looking for jobs on your own.  But you may find that this is a useful starting point.

--ben.

CompTIA Network+ Training - 8/7/2006

Tonight’s class saw us complete Chapters 18-20, which finishes the book!  Congrats guys.  As promised, there will be a test next week over Chapters 15-20!!

Major props to Keith who passed his A+ Hardware certification last Friday.  This is a huge deal, make sure you congratulate him for it!

Homework:
  • Chapter 18 – Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 19 – Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 20 – Questions 1-10

  • Study for your test!

MS Frontpage - 8/7/2006

Work continues on the Frontpage projects.  Keep ‘em coming!

Homework:
  • Continue on your projects!

Marketing - 8/7/2006

Chapter 8 was the topic of discussion today, and Chapter 8 covered the Product P of the 4Ps.  We didn’t finish the chapter, but you are still responsible for the content of it!  

Next week, we’ll do Chapter 16, which is the chapter on personal selling.  Make sure you look over this chapter before coming to class.  The week after that, we will be having our Personal Sales Workshop (which I will make worth 200 points!)

Homework:
  • Chapter 8 – Pick 10 vocab words and define them!

Saturday, August 05, 2006

Desktop Publishing - 8/3/2006

Today’s project was making a newsletter by importing various articles from Word documents.  

Homework:
  • Is there ever homework in this class?  I mean, really?

Wednesday, August 02, 2006

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 8/2/2006

Today we had a test (nice job guys) and then proceeded to fix another computer.  This time, it was Stacey Birdwell.  Matthew and I took the finished computer to Stacey in the front office, and she was very, very grateful.  Next week, we’ll be (hopefully), working on Houston’s computer again.

Homework:
  • No homework!

ATTENTION ALL MSE STUDENTS!

If you are an MSE student, whether or not you have me in class right now, PLEASE! Listen up!  

Yesterday, I had an idea for a use of the pretty-much empty bulletin board that is in our classroom.  I thought it would serve as a good motivator to post your progress as you passed certifications.  My idea was to have each certification exam listed and then the names of each person who passed them listed underneath.  I would NOT put your name anywhere if you failed the certification, or if you have chosen not to take them.  

Personally (and this is my own opinion… and we all know about opinions.  Everyone has one, and most of them stink), I think this is a great idea.  However, I can see where some students may feel extra undue pressure by not seeing their name up on the board.  SO!  I’m letting you guys vote on this one.  See the survey to the right, and please vote!!!!

Thanks!
--ben.

Tuesday, August 01, 2006

Pro/Server - 8/1/2006

Today’s class went remarkably well – covering three chapters in full and letting out just over an hour early!  Great job today.  A lot of information today has been covered before, so there is NO excuse for not knowing it!!!

Chapter Six covered file/network permissions; Dfs and setting up and troubleshooting printers.  Seven covered the configuration of hardware devices, driver signing (Ignore, Warn and Block, Kim!) and working with Device Manager in order to determine what devices aren’t working properly and then what to do about it (restart, reinstall drivers, update drivers, etc.)  Finally, Chapter 8 dealt with Optimizing your computer in order to provide reliability to your end users.  While this is a repeat from the Pro book, this chapter is especially important to the Server environment since bottlenecks effect (affect?) performance from clients too.  And upset clients means upset users, and upset users mean less Freecell time!  

Look for a test on 8/15…

Homework:
  • Chapter Six – Multiple Choice Questions and the Lab

  • Chapter Seven – Multiple Choice Questions ONLY

  • Chapter Eight – Multiple Choice Questions and the Lab

Monday, July 31, 2006

CompTIA Network+ Training - 7/31/2006

Tonight we covered three chapters – 15-17.  Great job tonight, I know some of this can get kind of dry, but you guys held in there great.  Next week, we’ll do the remaining three chapters of the book, on 8/14 we’ll have our last test (short of the final) and then use the remaining time that night and 8/21 to do Transcenders.  Remember, if you don’t have to be here on the night of the final, you DON’T have to come on the 8/28.

Homework:
  • Chapter 15 – Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 16 – Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 17 – Questions 1-10

MS Frontpage - 7/31/2006

More work on the Web sites!  Keep them coming, they’re looking great!

Homework:
  • Start finalizing the web sites.

Marketing - 7/31/2006

We learned about marketing segmentation, targeting and positioning today (Chapter 7)

Homework:
  • Chapter 7 – Pick 7 vocabulary words to define.

Desktop Publishing - 7/27/2006

Today’s fun-filled project was to make a Get-A-Job kit, which included a resume, a cover letter, and an envelope to send it all in!

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 7/26/2006

If you read the previous entry, you’ll see that I forgot to post the classwork – a nice six days late.  Today we fixed Houston’s computer.  The computer may come back in a couple of weeks: he basically wants to switch the drives in the computer so that he can boot off of what is currently his “F” drive.  

TEST NEXT WEEK (8/2)

Homework:
  • No homework

Pro/Server - 7/25/2006

OOPS!  I just realized, six days after the fact, that I had forgotten to post a blog entry about class!  So… here it goes:

We first had an exam, and then did the very beginnings of Chapter Six, which we’ll continue on August 1 (can you freakin’ believe it?!?).  We finished out the remainder of the class on Transcenders.

Oh, and:

I WANT TO SEE MORE CERT PASSES!  

Homework:
  • No homework

Monday, July 24, 2006

CompTIA Network+ Training - 7/24/2006

Tonight’s class was devoted to Exams only.  Get ready for next week, when we’ll be covering Chapter 15 & 16.

Homework:
  • Read Chapters 15 & 16.

MS Frontpage - 7/24/2006

Today we worked more on our web sites.  Keep on chugging, they’re looking great!

Homework:
  • Keep on working!

Marketing - 7/24/2006

This morning we heard from Nick Brown, the Marketing Coordinator at WBKO.  Please drop Nick an e-mail at nick.brown@wbko.com and let him know what you thought of his presentation today!

Homework:
  • No homework!

Friday, July 21, 2006

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 7/19/2006

Today we covered the last three chapters of the book: chapters 10-12.  Be ready for a test next week!

Homework:
  • Chapter 10 – 12: Multiple Choice Questions

Pro/Server - 7/18/2006

Today we took the first hour of class and finished up Chapter Five, dealing with DNS. Make sure you guys know the concepts in Chapter 5 (WINS, DHCP, DNS) as they will be very important next semester!!

Remember: TEST NEXT WEEK!!! The test will be over Chapters 7-12 of the Pro book.

After the first break, we did some Transcenders. LIVE AND BREATHE THESE TRANSCENDERS.

Keep Kim in your prayers as she takes her A+ Hardware exam on Thursday.

Homework:
  • Chapter Five – Review Questions/Lab

Monday, July 17, 2006

CompTIA Network+ Training - 7/17/2006

Tonight’s class covered chapters 13-14 which dealt with sharing and TCP/IP.  After covering both classes, we had an optional review over the test we’ll be having next week (no excuses!) over Chapters 7-14.  BE READY!

Homework:
  • Chapter 13 – Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 14 – Questions 1-10

MS Frontpage - 7/17/2006

Work continued on the web site projects.  They’re looking great guys, keep up the good work!

Homework:
  • No homework!

Marketing - 7/17/2006

Today’s class was the test over Chapters 2-5.  Next week, be ready for Nick Brown, who is the marketing coordinator for WBKO, who will be talking about the different aspects that go into choosing a time slot to advertise in.  It’ll be REALLY interesting – Don’t miss it!

Homework:
  • No homework

Thursday, July 13, 2006

Desktop Publishing - 7/13/2006

Today we did Calendars!

Homework:
  • Is there ever homework?!?

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 7/12/2006

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Pro/Server - 7/11/2006

Welcome to the Server portion of our class!  The good news about the Server book is that Chapters 1-3 is identical to the Pro book.  Given that tasty little fact, we started class today by covering chapter 4 while Server installed, and then after lunch covered the DHCP/WINS portion of chapter 5.  Next week, we’ll cover the rest of Chapter 5 (we’ll have the questions from Ch 5 as homework next week, GET READY!).

Also, if you see or talk to Tony, tell him congrats.  He passed his Network+ exam this afternoon!

EDIT (7/13): Brian White passed his A+ Hardware exam yesterday afternoon!!!!

Homework:
  • Chapter 4 – Questions.  No Lab.
    

Monday, July 10, 2006

CompTIA Network+ Training - 7/10/2006

Welcome back to school!  Tonight we hit it hard by covering chapters 10-12!  In those chapters, we covered protocols, TCP/IP and Network Operating Systems.

Homework:
  • Chapter 10 – Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 11 – Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 12 – Questions 1-10

MS Frontpage - 7/10/2006

Welcome to the final sprint for the Frontpage class!  I passed out the requirements for your final project today, and many of you got big running starts!  The project is due on August 29 – if you get finished early, you are DONE for the semester!  Sing and rejoice!

Homework
  • Continue work on the project!

Marketing - 7/10/2006

Welcome back!  Today we covered Chapter 5, which dealt with consumer behavior.  We didn’t quite get finished with the chapter, so make sure that you read the remainder of what we didn’t cover.  Next week, we’ll be having a test over Chapter 2-5.  

Homework:
  • No homework since you have a test to study for!

Wednesday, June 28, 2006

Listifieds.com

Hey guys, I hope everyone is having a great break!  I know I am!  (lotsa lotsa studying, and working on a patio too!  Woohooo!)

I’m making this post to let you guys know about a website that my friend Kevin launched a few weeks ago, and I think that it might be of some use to some of you.  It’s called Listifieds, and it’s a free online classifieds thing.  It works a lot like the free ads thing in the BG Daily News, except you:

1.  don’t have to go down to the Daily News office to post an ad
2.  get a dozen or so pictures to go with your ad
3.  get unlimited run time.  Ads stay (with 30 day renewals) until they sell!
4.  get UNLIMITED words to describe your item

Kevin’s really excited about it, and he should be -- I think it’s a great concept.  I’ll be posting some things on there myself over the next few days.  I encourage you to at least check it out.  If you have something you’d like to sell, what the hey, throw it up there!  Who knows, it might sell!

Here’s the site: http://www.listifieds.com.  I’m going to put a link over on the right as well, if you want to find it later.

Thanks guys!  See you in a week and a half!  --ben.

Friday, June 23, 2006

Desktop Publishing - 6/22/2006

Today we worked on tri-fold brochures, and learned how to print on both sides of the page.  Great job with these – very creative!

Homework:
  • No Homework!

Wednesday, June 21, 2006

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 6/21/2006

Blah blah blah

Homework:
  • Chapter 8 – M/C Questions

  • Chapter 9 – M/C Questions

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

Pro/Server - 6/20/2006

Today we had a nice, long day and covered three (count ‘em, three!) chapters.  We covered a LOT of material today, so make sure you really study these chapters and absorb what I’ve given you.  

Today is the last day of class before our long, 2 week break.  I’d encourage you to take these two weeks and hit your Transcenders HARD.  I mean, freakin’ HARD.  You have until August 28 to take and pass your 70-210 (or 70-270 for WinXP) certification and there won’t be any new information coming from class.  I would love to see a few of you take and pass your certification so I can just give you straight-up As.

Anyway, we’ll reconvene on July 11 and start the Server section of the class.  Come ready for fun!

Homework:
  • Chapter 10 – Review Questions

  • Chapter 11 – Review Questions

  • Chapter 12 – Review Questions + Lab Question

CompTIA Network+ Training - 6/19/2006

Tonight’s class was the first night in our new “supplemental” material, and from what I can tell, everyone seems to be liking it.  We covered Chapters 8 and 9.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 8 – Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 9 – Questions 1-10

MS Frontpage - 6/19/2006

Today we did some stuff in Chapter Five of the Frontpage book, including tables!  Make sure you go over some of the concepts that we’ve been going over – after the break we’ll be starting our Frontpage project.  And remember, once you’re done with the project, you’re done with the class.

Homework:
  • Come up with a topic for your web page.  

Marketing - 6/19/2006

This morning’s class covered Chapter Four, which was all about Marketing Management systems.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 4 – Review Questions 2 , 5.

Thursday, June 15, 2006

Windows 2000 OS/Networking

Today in class we covered Chapter 7.  Just Chapter 7.

Homework:
  • Chapter 7 – Review Questions

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Pro/Server - 6/13/2006

Today we covered a LOT of ground by covering the rest of Chapter 7, and then covered Chapters 8 and 9.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 7 – Questions, Lab

  • Chapter 8 – Questions, Lab

  • Chapter 9 – Questions

Monday, June 12, 2006

CompTIA Network + Training - 6/12/2006

REVOLUTION!

That’s what you guys called for right SMACK as I walked in the door.  Apparently (and not surprisingly), our book is not meeting your standards and you guys wanted to use the McGraw-Hill version.  I will check with Kathy Elson on Tuesday to try and make that happen.

Anyway, after that, we delved into Chapter Three, of our slightly-inferior book which dealt with networking hardware.  After that was out of the way, we practiced connecting RJ45 connectors to Cat5 cable.  Wooha!

Homework:
  • Review Questions Chapter 3.

MS Frontpage - 6/12/2006

FrontPage covered Chapter Four today, which dealt with a lot of web page enhancements.  It seemed like a lot of you really enjoyed messing around with these…  I can’t wait to see what you guys incorporate on your web site projects!

Oh, and thanks again for the gift certificate to You & Me!!!  I think Cara and I are going to eat there Tuesday night!  

Homework:
  • No homework!

Marketing - 6/12/2006

Today we covered Chapter Three, dealing with a company’s microenvironment, and the company’s macroenvironment.  Great discussion today, we’ll continue next week!

Homework:
  • No homework this week!

Thursday, June 08, 2006

Desktop Publishing - 6/8/2006

My word, we HAVE PUBLISHER INSTALLED!!!  I don’t know what to do!

I know, let’s do a For Sale flyer, so that you guys can get a clear picture of just how easy Publisher makes our lives…

And that’s what we did.  Judging from your reactions, I think you guys are going to really like Publisher.  

Homework:
  • No homework!

  • Remember, bring some music that you like so that we can play it while you work!

Windows 2000 OS/Networking - 6/7/2006

We started work on Chapter 5, which covered customizing your desktop environment.  Since everyone seemed to know how to do this, and even things beyond what the chapter suggested (great job, Jessica), we let the class get hopelessly off schedule by letting Joe and Matt loose with the dirty jokes.  

Then, after a brief break in which Joe and Jeremy traded phone stuff via Bluetooth, we reconvened for Chapter Six – Hardware.  I took this opportunity to let Jessica dig around in a computer and Joe and Matt watched from the wings and offered their advice as I reviewed them from the A+ class.

Homework:
  • Chapter Five – Review Questions

  • Chapter Six – Review Questions

Tuesday, June 06, 2006

Pro/Server - 6/6/2006

Today we celebrated 666 day by having a hard as #($* test!  Actually, this test is similar to what you’ll find on the MS certifications, so suck it up!  

Decent job on those, I curved big-time so grades wouldn’t get plummeted!  

We then got into Chapter Seven, but due to the 5 lbs of snot in my head, my throat turning into sandpaper, and Tony having a little too much backdoor fun, we cut class a little short.  We’ll catch up with the remainder of Chapter 7 and also do 8-9 next week!  Get ready!

Homework:
  • No homework!  I am the nicest guy ever.  

Monday, June 05, 2006

CompTIA Network + Training - 6/5/2006

Tonight we did Chapter Two, which involved several aspects of the IEEE 802 subcommittee.  

Homework:
  • Review Questions 1-10

MS Frontpage - 6/5/2006

Hey hey hey!  We finally have books!  Ack!  And with those books, we did a quick covering of chapters 1-3.  We didn’t follow it to a “T” – I left some stuff out and included some extra stuff.  Be thinking about what kind of topic you might want to build a website around.  The second half of this class (July on) will be devoted to that site!

Homework:
  • No Homework!

Marketing - 6/5/2006

Welcome back!  Today we covered Chapter 2!  Homework is Review Questions 2 & 5 as well as 10 of the Review Questions.  

Friday, June 02, 2006

Desktop Publishing - 6/1/2006

As we still didn’t have MS Publisher software installed, I made do with using Microsoft Word and we created our first publication – a For Sale sign!  Everyone did a great job considering how finicky Word can be.  

I heard back directly from one of the IT guys promising to get our software installed by next Thursday.  This is more of a response than we’ve gotten so far, but I’m still skeptical.  We shall see!

Homework:
  • No homework.  See ya next week!

Wednesday, May 31, 2006

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 5/31/2006

Today we had a nice little discussion on Chapter Four – the chapter dealing with various Windows utilities.  Some of the things we talked about were Computer Management, System Information, Backup, Disk Defrag, etc.  Make sure you read the chapter!

Homework:
  • Chapter Four – Multiple Choice Questions 1-15.

Tuesday, May 30, 2006

Pro/Server - 5/30/2006

Welcome back from a nice Memorial Day holiday and a week off from me!  Hopefully Brent treated you guys well (actually, hopefully you guys treated Brent well!) and everything.  Thanks for letting me take a week for a honeymoon!  And thanks to Katie for the Napoleon Dynamite dancing doll!

Today we covered Chapter Six for the first part of the class, and then went over sample test questions after lunch.  Remember, you have a test over the first six chapters next week – read up and study up!  

Homework:
  • Chapter Six – Questions and Lab

  • Study for that test!!!  Ack!!!

Thursday, May 18, 2006

Desktop Publishing - 5/18/2006

Once again, we did not have MS Publisher installed on our computers, so we have to postpone class once again.  Next week, I’ll be gone, but I’ll leave some instructions for a project for you to complete.  

Windows 2000 Networking/OS - 5/16/2006

Today we ate cupcake pie!  

Also, we covered Chapter 3, which deals with DOS commands.  It was a good chapter, I personally learned some stuff during prep, and I hope you guys did too.

Remember, we have a test next week, which will be over chapters 1-3.  Ryan Wigginton from financial aid will be administering the test.  After it’s finished, head on home!

Homework:
  • Chapter 3 – Review Questions, Multiple Choice Questions.

Tuesday, May 16, 2006

Pro/Server - 5/16/2006

Today’s class, before it got totally derailed, covered Chapter 3 – the unattended installation.  We covered Sysprep (which takes WAY longer than I had planned, sorry guys), RIS (Remote Installation Server) and the Unattended installation.  We actually did an unattended installation with an answer file, and it went fine – great job guys.

Next week I will not be in class, and Brent Haselhoff will be sitting in for me.  You guys will really like Brent – he’s a great teacher and he really knows his stuff.

Homework:
  • Chapter 3 – Questions 1-18

CompTIA Network+ Training - 5/15/2006

Network + tonight was devoted to finishing up Chapter 1 and Chapter 4.  Chapter 4 was all about the OSI model.  MAKE SURE you know these:

Physical
Data Link
Network
Transport
Session
Presentation
Application

Homework:

  • Chapter 1

  • Review Questions 1-15

  • All Multiple Choice Questions

  • Read Lab Procedure #1

  • Do Lab Procedure #2

  • Chapter 4

  • Review Questions 1-15

MS Frontpage - 5/15/2006

Today we STILL don’t have our books, so we just played in FrontPage instead.  We learned about what happens to old-fashioned HTML code when we make simple formatting changes inside of FrontPage.  Remember, no class next week and then we are out for Memorial Day on May 29.  I’ll see you again on June 5!!  

Homework:
  • No homework!

Marketing - 5/15/2006

Today we finished up Chapter 1.

Homework:
  • Reviewing the Key Terms, p 30

  • Discussing the Concepts 2 & 4

Tuesday, May 09, 2006

ATTN Frontpage Students!!!

We now have working computers and software installed!  Woohoo!!!

The bad news is is that we are moving to room 145 (which is in that little side hallway behind room 143, where we had class on Monday.

See ya then!

--ben.

Windows 2000 Pro/Server - 5/9/2006

Welcome to Windows 2000 Professional/Server!

Today we jumped right into the class and installed Windows 2000 Pro.  After our installation, we looked at a couple of installation methods (clean/upgrade) and the associated files with each (winnt.exe and winnt32.exe).  In addition, the various switches that were available were covered.  MAKE SURE YOU KNOW THESE (hint, hint).

Next week, we’ll do a nice unattended installation!

Homework:
  • Chapter 2 – Questions 1-21

  • Lab Question

CompTIA Network + Training - 5/8/2006

One down, 13 to go!

We’ve finished up the first night of Network+ class, and I for one feel it was a success.  Line-waiting took up a majority of our time, but we still found a few minutes to talk about the different parts of a network: the topology, the data signals and the media infrastructure.  We’ll finish up talking about Chapter 1 next week and move right in to the next chapter (maybe chapter 4?  2?  We’ll see!) next week.

See you guys then!

Homework:
  • No Homework!  Woo!

MS Frontpage - 5/8/2006

Today was the first day of Microsoft Frontpage!  Since we didn’t have books (or hard drives, for that matter), I decided to just have an “Intro to the Internet” lecture for an hour or so.  Thanks for being good sports with that.  

Afterwards, Lula cracked open a PC and changed its RAM!!!  Talk about cool!  You rock, Lu!

Homework:
  • Once you get your book, read over Chapter One and look over the questions in it.  Don’t worry about writing anything and turning it in!

Basic Marketing - 5/8/2006

Welcome to Marketing!  

Today we covered part of Chapter One (thanks long line) which dealt with what exactly marketing is.  Remember, that the main goal of marketing is to create relationships with customers that promote the exchange of values.  

Don’t worry about any homework for next time, I’ll hit you hard with that next week!

Monday, May 08, 2006

Welcome!

Hi, and welcome to my weblog (or blog)! This blog will allow you to keep up with what's going on in class this semester. I plan on making brief posts after each class which will summarize what we've done that day and have any assignments.

Look to the right. There are a number of links that you will find useful. If you’re in my Network+ class, be sure to check out the links that detail your upcoming certifications. Make sure you check this blog often -- even if you haven't missed class -- as I will put class announcements here (this may include extra credit possibilities!!!)

Tuesday, April 11, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 4/11/2006

Final Night!  It’s been a fun semester, guys!  See you next time!!!

Homework:
  • Have as much fun as humanly possible!!!!

Monday, April 10, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 4/10/2006

Transcenders x 3!

Homework:
  • Study for the final, if you have to take it.  Otherwise, see ya next semester!!!

MS Word - 4/10/2006

Today I gave out grades and let those who needed to/wanted to take their final.  It’s been fun guys, see ya next time!

Homework:
  • Have a great break!!!

Thursday, April 06, 2006

Small Business Management - 4/6/2006

We’re starting the final countdown towards the big presentation day!!  Everyone seems like they are working extremely hard and I know you guys are going to do great.  Here are some last minute pointers before next week:

Make sure you dress professionallyRemember, you will not be presenting to Jeremy and me.  You will be presenting to two bankers who have money that you need for your business to run.  Coming in and presenting in an old t-shirt and jeans will not help in your quest to borrow money.

Know your business
I don’t want you to address every possible question in your business plan, but make sure you know enough about your company to be able to field general questions from us.  Remember, any sign we see that you guys are going to not be good stewards of any money we might loan raises the amount of risk we perceive.  And the more risk we perceive, the less likely we are to let you have any money!

Relax!
I know, I know – easier said than done.  But seriously, relax and have fun with this.  The more you relax, the better job you will do.  How do you go about relaxing?  Make sure that you are NOT working on this late into the wee hours of the morning.  I want you to come in next Thursday rested and ready to go.  Make sure that you spend this last week wisely – remember, all information gathering should have been long completed – writing is all that should be going on right now.  Plan out your schedule so that next Wednesday night can be spent vegging on the couch, partying with friends, playing with your kids, or whatever makes you happy.  Your presentation will benefit from it!

MS Access - 4/5/2006

MS Access was a wrap-up of sorts: today I finally passed back papers for the ENTIRE semester (sorry guys!) and gave you your grades, as well as an indication of whether you need to show up next week and take a final or not.  If you have a star on your grade sheet, then I need to see you next week.  Otherwise, you are finished!  Congrats!

Homework:
  • Have a great couple of weeks off!

Tuesday, April 04, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 4/4/2006

First on the agenda for tonight was the passing out of grades.  Remember, if you have a B average (80%) or better AND have no more than one absence, you don’t have to take the final next Tuesday, April 11.  Otherwise, I’ll need to see you then.  

Next, we hit the Software Transcenders.  You guys did pretty well, but you still need to live and breathe these things.  Seriously guys, p*** off your loved ones – study these relentlessly!!  On Monday, we’ll do the Transcenders of your choice, and then on Tuesday wrap the class with the final.  

Homework:
  • Transcenders!

MS Office - 4/4/2006

In Office today, I shunned the fun part of my responsibilities (teaching) in favor of the not-so-fun part that I’ve neglected this whole semester: grading!  While I was catching up, you guys worked on the first chapter of the Access section.  Thanks for being such good sports with it, and hopefully that gave you enough of a taste of what Access is all about.  

I did finish your grades (miracle!) and passed out my little report sheets detailing the various assignments and what your grades were on them.  Remember, if you see a red star on your sheet, I need to see you next Tuesday for the FINAL!  If you don’t see a star, I don’t need to see you.  If there is any doubt, please e-mail me or just show up.  Also, remember that if you don’t have to take the final, you can opt to take it anyway and try to improve your grade.  If you are one of these lucky people who is not required to take the final, and do anyway, I will only allow the final to help your grade, not hurt it.  Be sure and study your past tests along with the mountains of homework I passed out today.

See some of ya next week, some of ya next semester!

CompTIA Network + Training - 4/4/2006

To-DAY we did traaaaaaannscendERRRRS!

Nee-haw!

No Homework!

Wednesday, March 29, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 3/28/2006

Tonight we covered the LAST (well, second to last if you count Ch 24 that I skipped) chapter in the book – maintaining WinNT!  On Monday, we’ll have a test over Chapters 11-16, and then cover the “missing chapter” 24.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 16 – Questions 1-10

MS Office - 3/28/2006

I turned over the reigns to you guys today as we watched everyone give their PowerPoint presentations.  Everyone did an excellent job, and watching them was a lot of fun.  Hopefully you guys had as much fun as I did!

Homework:
  • No homework, be ready to start the Access chapter next week!

Network + Training - 3/28/2006

Today we took Test #3, the last test of the class (excluding the final).  Afterwards, we started in on Transcenders.  Next week, be prepared to do more Transcenders, with the exception that you will need to answer the questions on your own, without any help.  In the meantime, make sure you live and breathe these Transcenders!  

Homework:
  • Practice, practice practice!  

  • Remember, if you take and pass your Net+ Certification before the end of the class, you get an automatic A!

Tuesday, March 28, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 3/27/2006

We discussed Chapter 15 – Windows 9x tonight.  A lot of information was new, but a lot of it wasn’t so hopefully everyone got something out of last night’s class.  Tomorrow night is Chapter 16!  See ya then.

Homework:
  • Questions 1-10

Monday, March 27, 2006

MS Word - 3/27/2006

Today we did Chapter Seven, which covers creating Tables of Contents, Figures and Authorities as well as creating Indexes.  This chapter is one of my favorites because it covers some very powerful, time-saving topics.  Hopefully you guys liked it too!

Remember, we have a test next week over Expert Chapters 1-4, and 7.  See ya next time!

Homework:
  • Matching 1-11

  • Skill Assessment #1

Wednesday, March 22, 2006

MS Access - 3/22/2006

Today was a “study” day for the test next week, which will be over Chapters 5-7 (NOT chapter 8 as we had previously discussed).  This study day consisted of going through the Skills Assessments that are after Specialist Chapter 8.  I also passed out a study guide, which I’ll include below.

Homework:
  • Study, study, study!

Microsoft Access Test Two (Study Guide)

  • A PivotTable or PivotChart is a highly specialized, highly customizable way of presenting data that’s contained in a table or query.

  • Access database files have the extension .mdb.

  • An input mask automatically formats input for you.  You would use an input mask when you want phone numbers or social security numbers to all look the same.  (270) 843-6750.

  • If you want to have Access create a form for you by asking you a series of questions (like an interview), you would start the Form Wizard.

  • In designing a form, you can “tie” a field to a text box by indicating the field in the text box’s Control Source property.

  • Know the proper structure to calculate values in queries using existing fields.  For example, to divide the TotalUnits field by the TotalPrice field you would type [TotalUnits]/[TotalPrice].

  • Know the various ways to create tables, forms, and reports.

  • Make sure you can do all of the skill assessments in the purple section of your book, just after Specialist Chapter 8.

  • Making a forms makes your data entry process easier and more attractive.

  • Navigation buttons are the buttons that allow you to navigate from one record to another inside tables, forms and reports.

  • Queries allow you to pull up only certain information such as your male customers in Kentucky under the age of 35

  • Reports allow you to arrange your data in an easy-to-read format on paper.

  • Tables are the basic storage units in a database

  • The difference between a page header and a report header is that the page header appears on the top of each page, the report header appears at the beginning of each report.  

  • The Object Dependencies task pane allows you to view each object and everything that is tied to it with a relationship.  You can turn this feature on by clicking View, Object Dependencies.

  • Turning on the form header can be accomplished by simply clicking View, Form Header/Footer.

  • When you export data to a Word file, that Word file has the file extension .doc.

  • When you export data to an Excel file, that Excel file has the file extension .xls.

  • When you want your Access table to be automatically updated whenever you update a certain Excel file and vice versa, you would link the table to the Excel file.  To do that, you would click on File, Get External Data, Link Tables.

  • Your Clipboard task pane allows you to hold up to 24 objects that you can later paste into various Office files.

Tuesday, March 21, 2006

CompTIA OS/Hardware - 3/21/2006

I’m sitting here while Keith and Amy are dismantling this huge tower of a computer.  We’re done with tonight’s class which discussed the installation and upgrading of various Windows operating systems.  We practiced what I preached by installing Windows XP, which went flawlessly for everyone.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 14 – Questions 1-10

MS Office - 3/21/2006

More work today on your presentations.  Remember, they are due next week!

CompTIA Network+ Training - 3/21/2006

We today finished the last two chapters in the book – Chapters 19 & 20.  Be ready for a test next week over Chapters 15-20, and afterwards, we’ll jump right into Transcenders.  

Homework:
  • Chapter Nineteen – 1-10

  • Chapter Twenty – 1-10

Monday, March 20, 2006

CompTIA OS/Hardware - 3/20/2006

Tonight we covered Chapter 13, which dealt with the command prompt.  Make sure you know how to do the various commands we covered tonight, such as DIR, CD, MD, RD, XCOPY/XMOVE, etc.

Homework:
  • Chapter 13 – Questions 1-10

MS Word - 3/20/2006

Today’s class covered chapter four, which dealt with macros, styles and other types of timesavers built into the MS Word program.  

Homework:
  • Completion (skip 5)

  • Skill Assessments 1, 6, 8
    

Thursday, March 16, 2006

Small Business Management - 3/16/2006

Today’s class was given to you for work on your projects.  Keep on chugging!

Wednesday, March 15, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 3/14/2006

Tonight’s class covered Chapter 12, which was an introduction of sorts to Windows.  Make sure you guys know the files that I put on the board and what each of them do.

Homework:
  • Questions 1-10

MS Office - 3/14/2006

Today I allowed you guys to work on your Powerpoint presentations, which are due on March 28.  I’m definitely looking forward to seeing them!

Homework:
  • Continue to work on your presentations

MS Access - 3/15/2006

Chapter 7 was the topic of choice today, and Chapter 7 covers importing/exporting to/from Access from/to Word & Excel.  (How’s that for slashes?)  

Homework:
  • Completion 1-9

  • Skill Assessment 3

Tuesday, March 14, 2006

CompTIA Network + Training - 3/14/2006

Today’s abbreviated class dealt with Chapter 18, which was over interconnecting Network Operating Systems.  Then, we worked on Transcenders.  Next week, we’ll finish up the book!!

Homework:
  • Questions 1-10

  • Lab 19.01, Lab Analysis

Monday, March 13, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 3/13/2006

We started the OS portion of our class tonight by covering  Chapter 11: Implementing Hard Drives.  Partitions, formatting, and various tools were the subjects of discussion.  Some of us stuck around after class and worked on Keith’s computer that he graciously brought in for us to monkey around on and see if we can’t get it fixed.  We’ll be working on it Tuesday as well.

Homework:
  • Chapter 11 – Questions 1-10

MS Word - 3/13/2006

Today in class we learned some specialized features that Word has to manipulate images.  Some of these included the AutoShapes tool and other various features such as color tools, shape alignment, etc.

Homework:
  • Chapter 3 Completion 1-8

  • Chapter 3 Skill Assessments 1, 3, 5

Tuesday, March 07, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 3/7/2006

Tonight’s class consisted of nothing but Hardware Transcenders.  Guys, I can not emphasize how important these Transcenders are to your preparation for the A+ Certification (not to mention your grade!)  Make sure that you entrench yourselves with these!!!

Homework:
  • No homework, but do your Transcenders!!!  Also, work on / reread Chapter 23 on Networking if you’re having problems.  As always, let me know (bbedo@draughons.edu) if you have any questions!

MS Office - 3/7/2006

Today’s class consisted of first, the Excel test (nice job on those, by the way) and then we looked at the Powerpoint presentations, due on March 28.  Here are the requirements for that:

Powerpoint Presentation

For the Powerpoint portion of this class, we will be making a Powerpoint presentation and presenting it.  This presentation will count as your Powerpoint test.  There are several things I will be looking for as you give your slideshow:

  • At least 12 slides

  • Text should be easy to read from the back of the room.  Use the “Rule of 6” to determine this (stand 6 feet from your monitor and if you can easily read your text, you’re good).

  • Use a Design template (either from the Web or from inside PowerPoint)

  • Have at least three types of slide layouts.

  • Use both animations and slide transitions on all slides

  • Use some form of clipart on at least one slide

  • Place a chart, table or graph on at least one slide

  • Please do not use sounds (this is a personal rule of mine, it’s kind of a pet peeve…).

  • Print a page of handouts to give to me on the day of your presentation.  There should be six slides per page.


Well, Ben, that’s all well and good, but what in the world am I going to do this presentation on???  I’m glad you asked!

Do it on ANYTHING you want!  I want to be educated!  Do it on a hobby, a passion, something completely random, something you’ve already done research for in another class, something.  There are no right or wrong topics here (ok, nothing pornographic, but you get my point).  

Some examples:

  • How to change your oil

  • Why we should invade Canada

  • Why Michael Jackson is guilty/innocent

  • A history of your favorite rock band

  • How to tame horses

  • How to take blood

  • How George Dubya is ruining/saving our nation

  • Why you shouldn’t buy milk from Wal-Mart.

  • Your stance on gun control, etc.

  • Planning a vacation

  • Unique investment strategies

You’ll have the next few weeks to work on this presentation.  We’ll give them March 28.

Remember, you still need to come to class, even though there won’t be any formal lecturing!!!

Homework:
  • Work on your presentations!!!

CompTIA Network + Training - 3/7/2006

Today we covered Chapters 16 & 17, dealing with Remote Connectivity and Protecting your Network.  We also were privy to the same sick, sick humor you guys are so good at coming up with.  I will now shower.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 16 – Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 17 – Questions 1-10

Monday, March 06, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 3/6/2006

Tonight we did the LOOOOONGGGGGG  chapter of Networking (Chapter 23).  Various topics we talked about included network topologies, network hardware, protocols and other fun stuff.  Make sure that you know your topologies and make sure you can convert an IP address to binary and vice versa.

Homework:
  • Chapter 23 – Questions 1-10

MS Word - 3/6/2006

Today we did Chapter Two, which was all about advanced formatting tools available to us in Word.  We covered a wide variety of things including the non-breaking space, using tables to do math, and customizing our toolbars and menus to fit our own specific needs.

Homework:
  • Completion 1-15

  • Skill Assessments 1, 2, 5

Wednesday, March 01, 2006

MS Access - 3/1/2006

Today we began chapter six, which is all about ways to creatively display your data.  We talked about reports this week, and next week, we’ll finish up and cover mailing labels, pivot charts/tables and lotsa fun stuff like that.

Homework:
  • No homework this week.  See ya next time!

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 2/28/2006

Congrats on the test tonight, guys!  The class average was an 81, which I am VERY pleased with!

All we did tonight was the exam, so those of you who were not here only missed that.  Be ready to take a modified version of that test as soon as you come back.

Tony, I hope you’re reading this.  Transcenders came in late yesterday afternoon and were distributed today to everyone.  I still have a few to pass out, so make sure that you see me if you did not get yours.  The packets include installation instructions, but since the wording is sketchy at best, a majority of students have problems getting them installed.  Call the 1-800 number if you have difficulties.

Also, any MSE student who is reading this, we will begin the registration process beginning next week, so make sure that you find me.  (You will need to be OK’d from someone in financial aid before I can register you).

Homework:
  • No Homework!

Tuesday, February 28, 2006

MS Office - 2/28/2006

MS Office was devoted to Excel Chapter 4, in which we covered a variety of Excel topics that dealt with worksheet enhancement, such as margins, borders, creating filters, etc.  This is the end of the Excel unit, and next week we will be having an exam over Excel Chapters 1-4.  I passed out a study sheet for the test, please let me know (bbedo@draughons.edu) if you need one.

Homework:
  • Completion Questions 1-16

  • Skill Assessments 1, 3, 4, 5

CompTIA Network+ Training - 2/28/2006

Net+ was divided into two sections today… the first section involved us taking exam #2 (chapters 7-14).  The second section involved us talking about chapter 15 – which was more stuff about TCP/IP.  

Homework:
  • Questions 1-10.

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 2/27/2006

Tonight we crammed crammed crammed!  Test on Tuesday!

Homework:
  • Study!

Monday, February 27, 2006

MS Word - 2/27/2006

Welcome back!  After a brief reintroduction, we recovered Chapter 1 – which dealt with mail merge and sorting mechanisms inside Word.  Hopefully, after today, you will have figured out some ways to really save yourself some time next in Word.  Next week, we’ll talk about some custom formatting features.  At the risk of sounding like a total dork, I think you’ll really like them.

Homework:
  • Completion 1-16 (pg 43)

  • Skill Assessments 1, 4, 8.

Thursday, February 23, 2006

Small Business Management - 2/23/2006

Today we had a free day as I let you continue work on your business plans.  I will do my absolute best to have a sample for you next week.

Wednesday, February 22, 2006

MS Access - 2/22/2006

Today we covered the Forms chapter of our book – Chapter 5!  Remember that a form is simply a user-friendly interface to a table or to a query, both of which we already know how to make.

Homework:
  • Chapter 5 – Completion

  • Chapter 5 – Skill Assessment #4

Tuesday, February 21, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 2/21/2006

Your instructor is a wuss.

Remember the blood-drive-extra-credit thing?  Yeah, well, I gave my pint today.

Now, I can’t stand up without seeing stars.  That being said, I’m going to go against my better judgment and cancel class.  I know some of you are probably quite happy about that, but I am extremely sorry! Anyway, in order for us to remain on task, I need you guys to read and answer the questions at the end of chapters 21 and 22, which are on portable computers and printers.  Pay extra attention to the care instructions of a laptop, and the various parts of a laser printer and how to diagnose problems with them.  

Again, sorry for not being able to make it in tonight – I still plan on going over the material that will be on the test before giving it.  We will review Monday night, and then have the test on Tuesday.  How’s that work?

Thanks guys, and see you next week!

Homework:
  • Chapter 21 – Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 22 – Questions 1-10

MS Office - 2/21/2006

Today we (sorta) covered Chapter 3 in the Excel section.  The sorta comes from the fact that I was out on the bloodmobile donating some of my precious blood to the cause.  Anyway, thanks for being patient with me and thanks to everyone that donated today – it really does make a difference (up to 3 lives saved from one donation!  And a free t-shirt!).

Homework:
  • Completion

  • Skill Assessments 4 and 6.

CompTIA Network+ Training - 2/21/2006

Today’s class covered Chapter 14, which dealt with implementing TCP/IP in large networking situations.  The two main topics we dealt with were DNS and DHCP.  DNS is what gives us “English” names to go along with IP addresses (Draughons Junior College vs. 2421 Fitzgerald-Industrial Drive).  DHCP is what allows a client computer to auto-configure and get its own IP address, DNS Server Information, Gateway information, etc.  Remember, we’re having a test next week on chapters 7-14 (! ACK !) so make sure you study that.

Homework:
  • Questions 1-10

  • Lab 15.01

  • Study for your test!

Monday, February 20, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 2/20/2006

Once again, we missed our Monday night class because of the amount of snow we received last night and this morning.  See you guys Tuesday!

MS Word - 2/20/2006

Well, once again we are snowed out today – we’ll pick back up next week.  Think about it.  It will be Feb. 27 and we’ll still be on Chapter 1!

Thursday, February 16, 2006

Small Business Management - 2/16/2006

Today we talked about the marketing plan.  Remember that there are two parts of the marketing plan that I’ll be looking for: a detailed plan of marketing research and a detailed application of the marketing mix (the 4 Ps: Products, Place, Price, Promotion).  Continue working on those business plans!!

Wednesday, February 15, 2006

MS Access - 2/15/2006

As I type this, I’m watching everyone quietly taking their first exam.  It’s weird having this group be so quiet!  Ha ha ha ha ha ha.

See you guys next week!

Homework:
  • Pray for a quick arrival of spring!!

Tuesday, February 14, 2006

Microsoft Office - 2/14/2006

Today’s class dealt with Excel’s Chapter 2 – formatting our worksheets.  We learned how to change our fonts, our column sizes, apply borders and shading and other fun stuff too.

On your homework, I failed to assign one of the skill assessments that you will need to do in order to do the skill assessment I happened to assign.  Oops.  Make sure that you note the change…

Homework:
  • Completion 1-13

  • Skill Assessments 1 & 5

CompTIA Network + Training - 2/14/2006

This morning, we covered Chapters 12 and 13.  We also installed Windows 2000, which we’ll be using off and on for the remainder of the semester.  

Homework:
  • Chapter 12: Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 13: Questions 1-10

Monday, February 13, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 2/13/2006

Due to this morning’s snow, we will NOT be having class tonight, Monday, February 13.  As of this moment, we WILL be having class tomorrow, Tuesday, February 14.  I can’t think of a better way to spend Valentine’s Day, can you?  

Homework:
  • No class, no homework.  See ya tomorrow night!

MS Word - 2/13/2006

Due to the HUGE amount of snow that we got and the blistering conditions following that snow, we did not have class today.  Woo-hoo!

Next week, we’ll pick up right where we left off and finish up our chapter on mail merge, etc.  

Homework:
  • No class, no homework.  See ya next week!

Friday, February 10, 2006

Small Business Management - 2/9/2006

Class today was a DIY class, in which you had the entire time to focus on your business plans.  It seems like everyone is doing pretty well with them and I’m excited to see them grow some more.  We’ll pick up and talk about the marketing plan next week.

Wednesday, February 08, 2006

Your Mailman Will Hug You

I somehow or another mentioned this today in my Access class about signing up for an “opt-out” for credit card companies, and I figured I’d share the information with anyone who wants to read it.  

Basically what happens is if you go to this website and plug all of your information in, your credit report carries a flag that prohibits credit card companies from using your report for marketing purposes.  What does this mean exactly?  It means that you’ll stop getting mounds and mounds of credit card offers!

www.optoutprescreen.com

I put signed up for this on December 9, and my junk mail has since nearly disappeared.  It definitely works!!!

Sorry Charlotte, no extra credit for signing up :p

MS Access - 2/8/2006

Today we finished up Chapter Four (Queries).  We covered lovely topics such as the filter (the little tornado buttons) and the Unmatched query (finding records in one table that don’t have buddies in the other table).  

Next week we’re having a test on Chapter 1-4.  Make sure you know all about queries – they are very important in the design of databases, so I’ve made the test a little heavy on them.  The test has 21 M/C questions and 3 Skill Assessment questions.  When you’re studying, make sure that you go over the questions I reviewed with you, and make sure that you work your way through the ten skill assessment questions that start on page 131.  If you know those, you should do fine.

Oh, and thank you guys so much for the Bowl for Kids’ Sake support!  Seriously, that means a lot to me!

Homework:
  • No homework in lieu of studying for the test!

  • Good luck!

Tuesday, February 07, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 2/7/2006

Tonight’s topic was Chapter 19, SCSI.

Homework:
  • Questions 1-10

MS Office - 2/7/2006

Today’s class consisted of a Word test, which everyone did really well on, and the first chapter of the Excel section of your book.  Chapter One was basically just an overview of the Excel program – covering things like where things are and how to get around.  We also were introduced to the fill handle, which I predict will become your best friend in Excel.  

Next week, we’ll dive into Chapter Two!

Homework:
  • Identifying (pg 29)

  • Skill Assessments 1-3 (pg 29-31)

CompTIA Network+ Training - 2/7/2006

We covered Chapters 10 and 11, covering protocols and TCP/IP.  Make sure you know which layers (generically) a protocol is designed to cover (Network – Session) and also make sure you know about the most common protocols that are out there (TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, Appletalk, etc.)  As far as TCP/IP is concerned, make MEGA SURE that you know how to convert a binary number into an IP address and vice versa.  The handout that I gave you should help with that.  Drop me an e-mail if you need a copy of that sheet (bbedo@draughons.edu)

Homework:
  • Chapter 10 – Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 11 – Questions 1-10; Lab 12.04 (yes, 12!)

Monday, February 06, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 2/6/2006

We had a slightly disturbing discussion tonight on video.  Jonathan (or was it Tony?) made me turn red, which is a pretty big accomplishment!  Anyway, remember that video is comprised of two things: the video card and the video display device.  Make sure that you know the main differences between a CRT monitor and an LCD monitor and can describe the pros and cons of each.  Also, be able to describe what an AGP slot is and why it is so much better than running a video card in a PCI slot.

I had fully intended on discussing Chapter 19 (SCSI) tonight, but as video went just a little longer than I thought, I pushed it off until tomorrow night.  Remind me to tell an interesting story on SCSI that someone brought up last semester…

Homework:
  • Chapter 18 – Questions 1-10

MS Word - 2/6/2006

MS Word class shifted gears today and, after taking our first exam, we actually had a real-live class!  Unfortunately, due to a few delays, we were unable to actually finish the first chapter, so we’ll do that next week.

Homework:
  • No homework!!

Thursday, February 02, 2006

Small Business Management - 2/2/2006

We today talked about the various types of businesses – sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations.  Continue work on your business plans!!!

Wednesday, February 01, 2006

MS Access - 2/1/2006

Today we covered Chapter Four, the chapter which deals with queries.  We went through exercise 11, and we’ll pick up next week and finish exercises 12-17.

Homework:
  • No homework this week, we’ll pick up Ch 4 homework next week.

Tuesday, January 31, 2006

CompTIA A+ OS/Hardware - 1/31/2006

Tonight we forged ahead in the hardware section of class, covering two chapters: Chapter Ten, which dealt with Hard Drives and Chapter 17, which dealt with CDs.  Next week we’ll do Chapters 18-19 (Video/SCSI).

Homework:
  • Chapter 10: Questions 1-10

  • Chapter 17: Questions 1-10

MS Office - 1/31/2006

We today covered Chapter Four, which dealt with Formatting entire documents.  We covered beautiful things such as margins (not margarines), section breaks, etc.  Remember, we have a test next week over Chapters 1-4.  Make sure you know about settings tabs with dotted leaders (Chapter 3, Exercise 21).

Homework:
  • Chapter Four: All Completion and Skill Assessment 1.

CompTIA Network+ Training - 1/31/2006

Physical installation and wireless networking were the topics at hand today in Net+.  We did chapters 8 and 9, which covered both topics respectively.

Homework:
  • Chapter 8 – Questions 1-10; Lab 8.01

  • Chapter 9 – Questions 1-10.

Monday, January 30, 2006

MS Word - 1/30/2006

More work work work on the Specialist section of the Word book.  Remember!  Next week all exercises are due at the beginning of class and we will be having a test over the concepts we’ve learned in the Specialist section.  After the test, we’ll dive right into Chapter One of the Expert section!  Some of you will actually for the first time experience me teach!

Thursday, January 26, 2006

Small Business Management - 1/26/2006

Today we talked in depth about the vision and the mission statement and how important it is to both new and existing businesses.  We practiced making a couple of mission statements and then I allowed you the rest of class time to work on your business plans.  See ya next week!

Wednesday, January 25, 2006

MS Access - 1/25/2006

Thanks again for everyone being great sports as we continue through our ACICS accreditation.  Without this accreditation, it would be impossible for us to continue to open our doors, and your cooperation is making this process go silky-smooth.

Anyway, today we conquered Chapter Three, which dealt with Table Wizards and the Help system, among other things.  Most of you finished the homework in class, but just in case you didn’t, here it is:

Homework:
  • Skill Assessments 1, 2, 4.