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Digital Literacy Essay 1
Micah B. Rosen
Ashford University
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Types of devices for the online classroom
There are many different ways a student can access his or her online classroom. The first
is by using a laptop; the benefits are its portable and can access a full range of resources on the
go. The only drawbacks would be if you chose one that lacks sufficient storage, or processing.
The second option would be a desktop computer. The benefits are it usually has the most amount
of storage and can access all the features of the online classroom. The drawback would be that it
is relatively large and nonportable. The third option is using a Tablet. The benefits are it does
not require a mouse, keyboard, monitor, and it is easily portable. Some of the drawbacks include
the difficulty of typing and the cost of the device. The fourth option would be Netbooks, and
although they may look like Laptops, they are designed primarily for consuming content. The
benefits include convenient size, portability, and low power usage. The drawbacks include
difficulty typing, lack of features, and reliance on cloud-based storage. The final option is using
a Smartphone. The benefits include the fast connection speed, range of storage options, and
user-friendly interface. The drawbacks are that the small screen limits functionality, difficulty
typing, and it can be a potential distraction. The devices I will primarily use for school is a
laptop and smartphone. I use the Laptop because it has all the same benefits of the Desktop, but
it is conveniently portable. I use the smartphone solely for reading and the audio option on some
of the books.
Resources and Tools
The Ashford resource I have chosen is career services. I believe that it will benefit me
professionally by helping me effectively plan for the future, and also help get me connected with
others in my career field. Some of the features I want to highlight are the networking map and
resume building resources. I believe that this service will help me achieve my professional
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goals. The two other tools I chose are Microsoft PowerPoint and Word. These both will help me
professionally and academically. Employers are looking for those who are proficient in these
programs, knowing more than just the basics, and how to properly utilize them to my advantage
will make me more competitive.
Types of Storage Data
The first type of data storage is the hardware of a computer. The benefits are that it is
built into the device, easy to access, and depending on how you use your computer, they can be
very powerful. The main drawback is if the information isn’t backed up elsewhere, it can easily
be lost in the event of a computer crash. The other option would be a Cloud-based storage
option. Benefits are that information is password-protected, the ability to edit files on multiple
devices, and ease of sharing with others. The drawbacks could include the cost of services and
the reliance on the internet. In my plan, I am using both. I saw everything on my computer, and
have a cloud service that automatically saves everything in a backup folder.
My Strengths in Digital Literacy
I see myself as very strong when it comes to Digital Literacy. I was fortunate to grow up in the
booming tech age, and all my life have been using technology. Some of my best strengths would
be the ability to understand various digital platforms, and using technology to achieve my
desired result, making thoughts become things digitally. Figuring out how a program works has
always been easy for me. Moving forward, I am most interested in learning more about
Presentation Software. I think learning more about it will allow me to be more proficient when it
comes to presentations, especially in the workplace. My future career goals require lots of
meetings, and presentations, so learning mastering programs like Microsoft PowerPoint will help
prepare me for my career goals.