Creating Word Documents

This week, I realized how to create a functioning manual using Microsoft Word.  I use MS Word on a daily basis at work, so I figured this would be an easy challenge.  However, I was quite surprised to learn that there is a lot that I do not know about creating Word documents.  I had to actually review my document and recreate a lot of the information that I "thought" was correct. 

Through the use of headings, hyperlinks, and tables; I created a functioning manual.  All I can say is "wow".  I realized through this challenge that I can do anything I put my mind to.  I used headings in my document that I attempted to create by myself.  I then had to go back through my document and use the style menu to recreate those headings and title pages.  I could not find headings two and three so I used the help menu and utilized the step by step instructions.  Screen shot was another obstacle that I overcame.  I never used it before.  In fact, I've had Microsoft 2010 for a couple of years and never took the time to learn the new version.  I based my knowledge on the older versions of Word but quickly realized how wonderful and helpful 2010 is.

I now can create manuals, brochures, newsletters, and so much more.  Learning everything that comes with MS Word 2010 may be challenging, but the benefits will be worth it.  Using MS Word takes documents to a whole new level.  There are so many things you can create.  The first step is trying!!!  So get busy and start creating. 

My Photoshop Journey

This week was somewhat difficult for me.  I viewed so much information that it became a little overwhelming.  However, I did make it through and I am grateful for it.  This week my focus was on Adobe Photoshop.  I've never used Photoshop and all of the tutorials kind of ran together during my studying.  Once I began actually working with Photoshop, I realized it's so much to put into it.  The only way to really become familiar with this software is to actually use it.  It can be used through trial and error or simply following the tutorials step by step.  I took the latter path.  I literally had to rewind over and over again, but I made it through.  I realized during this assignment that I can do anything I put my mind to, even if it takes me forever.  I also learned that since this is my first time using Photoshop that it may not be my best work.  However, I'm working towards correcting that goal. 

I want to use my skills at my job and any career that I choose after I graduate.  There are so many things you can use Photoshop for ex. photos, websites, personal photos, etc.  However the best way to use it is to take your time and experiment with it.  This week I used Photoshop to create a Polaroid Montage and to change the quality of one of my photos.  For my photo I used the filter key to blur my image.  I then used the Gaussian Blur function.  This function allowed me to smooth my skin and give me an overall even complexion which eliminated the oiliness of my skin.  I then used the retouch, lasso and sponge function to change the lighting in my eyes and to lighten my smile.

The first photo is my original photo.  The second is the after photo and the last is my polaroid montage photo.  Not many changes but simply enhancing my natural beauty.

This is the after photo

Working with Microsoft PowerPoint

I've recently experienced a new found respect for Microsoft PowerPoint.  Although, I have used PPT on several occasions, it wasn't until my most recent school project that I realized how advanced it has become.  The use of hyperlinks, inserting external data, etc., really made my information seem authentic.  Yes, I've used photos and links before.  However, I never thought about hyperlinking photos to my slides.  I guess, it was because I knew I would be the only person using the PPT.

Now that I'm in graduate school, I'm having to share my information and it is all becoming clearer.  Don't get me wrong, I have a lot to learn.  For years, I thought what I was working with was correct.  In many aspects it was.  However, I'm on a whole different level now.  I'm experiencing PPT from a teaching aspect and not from a speaker or student aspect.  Now, I get to share my thoughts and ideas not for presentational purpose only but for educational purpose and for others to see and utilize. 

Therefore,  I plan to use the knowledge I've acquired in my future presentations.  I am always happy to learn new and exciting things.  But understanding what you're doing and why you're doing it is priceless.  Creating powerful presentations benefits not only my career but it also reach others and that's what its all about.    

I have never blogged before so this is all greek to me.  However, it is quite interesting.  I do follow a couple of blogs but I never called them that.  I guess I never really gave it much thought.  This is going to be interesting because all this new technology I'm learning is very foreign to me.  Yet, I am enjoying it.  It's nice to learn something new.  But the best part is, you never know what you can do until you try it. 

With that in mind, I'm happy to start my journey in Educational Technology.  Life is so strange.  Many people run from change and yet here I am trying to figure out the unknown.  I pride myself in attempting things that fear me.  I just hope that I don't take myself too literally during this process.  I want to enjoy my new found knowledge and freedom.