22/6/2017

Aims for Today:
To finish the Paint job program
To complete resubmissions
To update my workload list

Today I finally managed to complete my program for U6 and am very happy with it. The only thing that I could not manage to fix was that a subroutine keeps repeating itself and it allows you to enter invalid values without validation. I am very happy with the small amount of work that I have left to complete until I fully complete the whole course.

21/6/2017

Aims for today:
To complete my computer program
To complete Assignments and Resubmissions
To complete SoAs

Today I completed two resubmissions which means I have narrowed my work list down to two pieces of work left to complete (Unless I get work back sent to me after it has been marked). I also managed to complete a couple of SoAs. A weakness of today is that I had to ask for a resubmission on unit 6 and I was given until tomorrow to finally complete my program. This means I need to stay extra motivated in completing it tomorrow.

14/6/2017

Aim: Know the difference between quality and readable code

Learning Outcomes (what the learner will be able to do)

Debug a program
Create a program following specifications
Identify a number of ways they could test a program
Complete A3T1
Describe factors that dictate quality of code
Describe factors that dictate readability of code
Identify how their code is readable
Identify how their code is good quality


Learning Objectives (skills, knowledge & attitudes)

Be able to use a range of structures (selections/loops/subroutines) to create a program
Be able to apply a modular approach to development
Review and refine work to make it appropriate for target audience
Know the correct shapes to use for flowcharts
Know the correct terms to use with pseudo
Demonstrate good quality and and reliability practice

This morning I completed a resubmission for unit U22 so can now cross off this unit as done after my SoA has been marked. This afternoon John helped us by giving us the skeleton of how to write the program and I am now confident to go away and do it myself which is a big strength of today. On the other hand, a weakness of today is that I did not manage to finish the A3T1 resubmission for unit 6 but I have until the 19th of this month to finish it which is a decent amount of time.

9/6/2017

Aims: To create an interactive website to meet a client need

To improve the effectiveness of a website on the basis of a client need

To demonstrate a created website meets the defined requirements and achieves the defined purpose

Objectives:

Create an interactive website using HTML, CSS and a programming language

Collect reviews for your website

With examples, explain how you have improved your website based on client reviews

Using examples, explain how your website has met the defined purpose

Using examples, explain how your website has met the given requirements

Today I worked continuously to complete A3T2 which was due today. I feel that I have put a lot of thought and content into this assignment so hopefully I will not have it returned to me and that I pass it first time. This week I have managed to complete lots of submissions from 3pm-4pm and from home which means my workload list is bottlenecking so I have less tasks to do. The main thing that is on my mind is developing the paintjob program as I need to make a start on it as soon as possible. I am confident in doing so because of all of the planning that I have done for it in unit 6 work. A weakness of today was that I keep loosing focus easily and losing my train of thought.

8/6/2017

Aims: To be able to create an interactive website to meet a client need
To be able to improve the effectiveness of a website on the basis of a client need
To be able to demonstrate a created website meets the defined requirements and achieves the defined purpose

Objectives:
Create an interactive website using HTML, CSS and a programming language
Collect reviews for your website
With examples, explain how you have improved your website based on client reviews
Using examples, explain how your website has met the defined purpose
Using examples, explain how your website has met the given requirements

Today I worked continuously to complete A4T1 and submitted it. This means I am more ahead now as I am halfway through completing the next task which is A4T2. I have up until tomorrow to complete it and I am confident in doing so. A weakness of today is that I struggled improving my website because I needed to move things around and edit the layout. Thankfully, +Reace McEwen managed to help me in getting past this. This week has been great for me so far as I have been very organised which has helped me in crossing off work.

7/6/2017

Aims: To be able to create an interactive website to meet a client need
To be able to improve the effectiveness of a website on the basis of a client review

Objectives:
Create an interactive website to meet a client need
Understand the importance of reviewing a website
Collect reviews for the website
Using examples, explain how you have improved your website based on client reviews

Lesson Aims:

Identify appropriate testing strategies
Be able to follow and create flowcharts and pseudo code for required systems
Identify problems with A3T1 and know how to act on them

Learning Outcomes (what the learner will be able to do)

Debug a program
Create a program following specifications
Identify a number of ways they could test a program
Be able to read flow charts
Be able to read pseudo code
Be able to make correct flow charts
Be able to make correct pseudo code

Learning Objectives (skills, knowledge & attitudes)

Be able to use a range of structures (selections/loops/subroutines) to create a program
Be able to apply a modular approach to development
Review and refine work to make it appropriate for target audience
Know the correct shapes to use for flowcharts
Know the correct terms to use with pseudo

Today I managed to create the first draft for my website and received results from my form. I can now complete the next assignment for the web development unit and tick it off from the list. Doing so can allow me to focus down on other assignments to get closer to finishing the whole unit. A weakness of today is that I have still not yet started writing my program but I think that it is better to plan more as this gives you a much clearer idea of how to write the program. I need to get A3T1 and A1T1 out of the way before I will start writing it.

19/5/2017

Aims: To create an interactive website for a specific purpose

To make sure you are up to date with all work

Objectives:

Create an interactive website using HTML and CSS

Add interactivity to the website using a programming language e.g. JavaScript

Take screenshots of the development of your website (for A4T1)

Review your website and get evidence of any changes made (evidence for A4T2)

Any U28 submissions/resubmissions

Today I managed to finally complete my website which is a big strength for me because it is something that I have been motivated in doing for the past week. I also have created a survey and started to take screenshots of my website which means I am able to work on it during half term. A weakness of today is that I did not complete any resubmissions for any of the other units but fortunately they are not due until after half-term so I have a lot of time to complete them and cross them off of my list. A weakness of today is that I took a lot of time in the afternoon trying to change the colour of the text in one of the pages. I found out that it did not work because I had missed out some semi-colons.

18/5/2017

Aim: To create an interactive website to meet a client need

Objectives:
To create an interactive website
To collect evidence of the creation process of the website
To review your website

Today I managed to complete two more pages of my website which are the feedback form and the skills and attributes page. I also started working on the example work page for my website. Today I did not learn anything because I spent the majority of the day working on developing my website. A weakness of today is that I spent around 30 minutes trying to figure out how to fix the button the I created on my form. The problem was that I forgot to close the tag before the start of the button so it carried on.

17/5/2017

Aim: To create an interactive website to meet a client need

Objectives:
To create an interactive website
To collect evidence of the creation process of the website
To review your website

Today I dont think that I learnt anything brand new. For the majority of the day I have been working on developing my website. I managed to finish my education page and started working towards completing the 'about me' section of the webpage. I weakness of today is that my hearing has not been as efficient because I think I have water in my left ear or something like that which has been frustrating for me today. I think that I am also at another disadvantage because a lot of people have completed their website and have moved onto the feedback part of the assignment. I plan to motivate myself over the next two days to complete my website before I go on work experience.

12/5/2017

Aims: To create an interactive website for a specific purpose
To make sure you are up to date with all work
Objectives:
Create an interactive website using HTML and CSS
Add interactivity to the website using a programming language e.g. JavaScript
Discuss the techniques that can be used on web pages to aid user access to information
Any U28 submissions/resubmissions

Today I managed to complete my unit 28 M2 assignment which I had been working on for the majority of the morning and afternoon. Along with this, I completed some resubmissions that were due towards the end of next week. This means that I will have less work to complete during work experience week. A weakness of today is that I didn't complete a lot of progress in developing my website which means I will have less time in the coming weeks but I am sure I will get it done by then. Something else that is on my mind is unit 6 work because I haven't managed to start working on creating the program yet. 

11/5/2017

Aim: To be able to create an interactive website to meet a client need

Objectives:
Create various parts of the website using HTML
Use CSS to create an external style sheet for the webpage
Use a programming language like JavaScript to add interactive element(s) to the website
Write effective questions that can be used to review a website
Discuss the techniques that can be used on web pages to aid user access to information

Today I continued to work on creating my website and I managed to nearly complete my Interests page and Home page, which is a strength of today. A weakness of today is that I decided not to attempt the distinction criteria for Unit 28. I have been helped a lot today by my peers with creating my webpages and I should be able to complete my website before I expected. I still have to create a JavaScript code to add the an interactive feature  to my website.

10/5/2017

Aim: To be able to create an interactive website to meet a client need

Objectives:
Understand the importance of reviewing a website
Write some well-structured questions that can be used to review a website
Create a website to meet a client need

Today I started to create my website. I tried using the bootstrap technique to try and layout my index page into 3 separate columns but for some reason it did not work. I couldn't manage to space out each section even through I had copied the HTML code directly from the W3Schools website. This afternoon I managed to complete the Unit 6 write-up work but saw that I had not taken pictures of some parts of the PC so I will have to stay tomorrow after college.

5/5/2017

Aims: To design an interactive website for a specific purpose

Objectives:
Create a range of designs for an interactive website
Explain the tools and techniques used in the creation of an interactive website
Complete resubmissions

Today I learnt some facts from World War 1 through a Kahoot quit that we did this morning. I came 2nd from last which I wasn't happy about but i'm glad that I dont have to create the quit for next Friday. For the majority of the day, it was independent study time and I managed to complete a lot of work including half of a unit 28 assignments and a couple of resubmissions. A strength of today is that I have improved my origination skills by updating my work load list. A weakness of today is that I have still been feeling to tired in the afternoon so did not manage to complete as many resubmissions that I would have liked to.

4/5/2017

Aim: To design an interactive website to meet a client need

Objectives:
Create a range of design documents for a stated web page
Design some of the screen designs for the web pages
Design all the screen designs for the web pages
Explain the tools and techniques used in the creation of an interactive website

Today I completed my designs for all of the web page screens but I feel like I could improve them if I had more time. Saying this, they are only sketches of what I want my webpages to look like so they do not need to be art standard. A weakness of today is that I felt very tired in the afternoon which affected my work motivation. We started A3T2 in the afternoon and I only managed to complete a couple of paragraphs of it because of this. Today I learnt about the different tools that can be used for website production and that a text editor is not the only program that can be used.

Inspirational picture

3/5/2017

Aim: To be able to design an interactive website to meet a client need

Objectives:
Explain with diagrams the house style for your website
Design some of the screen designs for the web pages
Design all the screen designs for the web pages

Today I learnt about what makes a good design for a website. A good website design will have everything laid out in a good manner and text should not be the same font and size for every section. In the morning, I completed more webpage designs for my website. I think that I am happy with my house style design because I think the colours fit together nicely. In the afternoon, I have been working on writing up my report for the PC practical work. I think that I have managed to write a good amount but I still have next week to write it up. A weakness of this is that I forgot to take images of inside the PC and the equipment that I used to maintain it so I will have to open the PC again.

28/4/2017

Aims: To create some design documents for your website

Objectives:
Explain the purpose of the website
Create a time plan for the development of the website
Create a structured diagram to show how the pages link
Explain with diagrams the house style
Start creating the screen designs

Don't forget:
A2T1 due 03/05/17
A2T2 due 03/05/17

Today I have been working on assignments for the whole of independent study time. I managed to complete the resubmissions that I had due for this week and most of the tasks that were set today. I have completed the requirements, structure diagram, house style and the layouts of each web page for my website. To finish, I just need to complete the action plan for my website and I will be able to check it off of my list of work to complete. I have felt motivated this week and have completed work on the day that it has been set.

27/4/2017

Aim: To understand the security issues and protection mechanisms involved in website performance
To be able to create a responsive web page

Objectives:
Explain at least one security term
Explain a range of security protection methods
Brief explanation of the Data Protection Act
Show how a named website complies with security
start planning website
Create a responsive web page using Bootstrap

Today I learnt about the security of the worldwide web and how to make it more secure. I also looked over the Data Protection Act and we had to write about it in the new assignment. A weakness of this week is that we have had 4 new assignments added. I feel that we are receiving too many assignments at once which is forcing me to work much more quickly. Linking to this point, this week has been quite hard working for me as I have completed 2 whole assignments and am close to finishing the next one in Unit 28.

21/4/2017

Aims: To understand web architecture and components in website communications
To complete any resubmissions

Objectives:

• Explain web architecture and components which allow the Internet and websites to function
• Describe in detail TCP/IP protocol and how it links to the application layer protocol
• Complete any resubmissions

Today I managed to complete two pieces of work and and a resubmission on Unit 22. This is a big strength because I think that it shows I have used my time efficiently to complete them all. A weakness of today is that I never got around to practicing my website production skills which was one of the objectives of today. On the other hand, my workload table is looking less blue which shows how much work that I have completed over the year.

20/4/2017

Aim: To understand web architecture and components in website communications

Objectives:
Give brief details of web architecture and components which allow the internet and websites to function
Explain with diagrams, the role of web architecture in website communications
Describe in detail TCP/IP protocol and how it links to the application layer protocol
Create a simple website using HTML and CSS

Today I learnt the very basics of making a website using HTML and CSS. I managed to create a small website with different sized texts and a working link. On the other hand, I never managed to add an image onto it because it would not appear. We did website production in high school and I found it very difficult to do but feel that I have improved on it a little bit which is a strength. This morning we worked on getting the assignments finished from Unit 28 and I feel that I used my time efficiently in getting them completed.

19/4/2017

Aim: To understand web architecture in website communications

Objectives:
Briefly explain some basic terms associated with web architecture
Explain in detail some terms associated with web architecture
Give a detailed explanation of a domain structure , including examples

Lesson Aims:
Create a detailed functional specification
Be able to create flowcharts and pseudo code for required systems

Create a functional specification
Create a detailed functional specification with consideration of stretch targets and future proofing.
Know how you will break up a problem
Be able to make flow charts
Be able to make pseudo code
Be able to make correct flow charts
Be able to make correct pseudo code
Peer review work

Know what information is needed to create a good specification
Be able to apply a modular approach to development
Review and refine work to make it appropriate for target audience
Know the correct shapes to use for flowcharts
Know the correct terms to use with pseudo

Today we started Unit 28 which is website production. We did a Kahoot quit that I found very useful because I learnt facts about website links such as what a domain is and why it is useful and needed. This afternoon I managed to finish the specification for the computer program that I will write for the U6 assignment. Teamwork was very useful in the activity because we managed to work faster. Today was also our first day back after the Easter half term and I only managed to get about 3 hours sleep last night which is a weakness to the start of the week.

24/3/2017

Aims: To create and test a computer game
To produce user documentation for a user game
To suggest improvements to a computer game following user feedback

Objectives:
To answer at least two surveys for computer games
To create a computer game
To test a user game using a variety of methods
To create a user manual for a computer game
To create a technical manual for a computer game
To suggest improvements based on testing and user feedback

Today I finally managed to complete my computer game and I am very happy with the outcome of it. This means I met one of my targets for this term. A weakness of today is that I didn't manage to complete A3T1 and A3T2 for Unit 22. This means I will require an extension to complete them. Although I am happy that I have completed my game, I feel that it is slightly rushed and could have made it a bit better with the feedback I have from my survey. I am excited for the Kingswood trip on Monday.

My Targets for this term are

• Improve communication skills by asking more questions and answering more questions in class.
• For U22 create a game that runs smoothly and is consistent. Make sure you test thoroughly to check for errors. Make it so that the enemies spawn randomly.

23/3/2017

Aims:To create and test a computer game
To produce user documentation for a computer game

Objectives:
Create a computer game
Test the computer game using a variety of methods
Briefly explain some code (iteration, selection)
Create a user manual
Start creating a technical manual

Today I continued to create my game. I have managed to complete the steps in making my first level. You can now complete it to go onto level 2 which I am happy about. I still have lots of work to do to complete my game which is a weakness but I have been given an extension to complete it tomorrow in independent study time. We started to create two new documents today which are the user manual and technical manual for our game. I dont think I will find the technical manual difficult because most of it is copying and pasting from previous game unit work.

My Targets for this term are

• Improve communication skills by asking more questions and answering more questions in class.
• For U22 create a game that runs smoothly and is consistent. Make sure you test thoroughly to check for errors. Make it so that the enemies spawn randomly.

22/3/2017

Understand the importance of good quality of code and know that there are different ways that programmers make code more readable.
Have a solid grasp of the practical problem.

Identify and apply factors that can improve code
Explain why good quality code is important
Identify and discuss the factors that can improve readability
Create a functional specification
Create a detailed functional specification

Can improve the readability of code
Identify different methods of improving the readability of code
Identify different methods of making quality code
Explain why good quality code is important
Identify key features of a functional specification

Aims: To be able to create a computer game for a given specification
To be able to test a computer game
To produce user documentation for a computer game

Objectives:
Create a computer game
Test the computer game using a variety of methods
Briefly explain some code (iteration, selection)
Start creating a user manual

Today I learnt how important it is to fail. This may sound quite stupid but in fact, failure is just learning from mistakes and making improvements. A strength of today is that I managed to make objects inside my game spawn randomly, which was part of a SMART target for this term. I feel proud of this because my peers were not sure how to do it. A weakness of today is that the game and both assignments are due tomorrow but I don think I will be able to finish them so may require an extension.

My Targets for this term are

• Improve communication skills by asking more questions and answering more questions in class.
• For U22 create a game that runs smoothly and is consistent. Make sure you test thoroughly to check for errors. Make it so that the enemies spawn randomly.

17/3/2017

Aim: To create a user survey for your computer game
To create and test a computer game

Objectives:
Use Survey Monkey to create a user survey for your game
Create a computer game
Test your game
Briefly explain examples of iteration and selection

Today I worked productively on assignments and re submissions. A strength of this is that I managed to complete two of them which means I have no work due until the middle of next week. This afternoon I was trying to fix a bug in my Computer Game to make it so objects such as enemies respawn at random places at the top of the screen. I should use one of the targets that I was set today to ask peers for help with this. A weakness of today was that my alarm never went off in the morning so I ended up waking up late and only just made it to college on time.

My Targets for this term are

• Improve communication skills by asking more questions and answering more questions in class.
• For U22 create a game that runs smoothly and is consistent. Make sure you test thoroughly to check for errors. Make it so that the enemies spawn randomly.

16/3/2017

Aim: To be able to create a computer game for a given specification
To be able to test a computer game

Objectives:
Create a computer game
Test the computer game using a variety of methods
Briefly explain some code (iteration, selection)

Today I have mostly been working on my game and have made lots of progress. My character and enemies/collectibles are now able to move and disappear once collected. It also displays points in the top left corner. A weakness is that I am struggling with making the collectibles respawn after they have been removed but I will try my best to make it work. I am happy with how my assets look after I made them today.

15/3/2017

Aim: To be able to create a computer game for a given specification
To be able to test a computer game

Objectives:
Create a computer game
Test the computer game using a variety of methods
Briefly explain some code (iteration, selection)

Identify the features of the Software Development Life Cycle
Name some models of the SDLC

Understand the different stages of the SDLC
Understand how the stages link together and understand the key model types

Identify the stages of the SDLC
Explain the stages of the SDLC
Identify the strengths and weaknesses of the waterfall model
Identify the main features of the Agile SCRUM model
Identify the characteristics of poor design
Explain the characteristics of poor design
Independently develop skills within programming

This afternoon I learnt about the different Software Development Life Cycles models such as the Waterfall and Agile models. I researched and learnt why they are important and about each steps of them. A strength of today is that I managed to complete all of my screens/rooms for my game in GameMaker and am now ahead of where I originally saw myself being after today. Another strength of today is that I walked to Subway during lunch break and really enjoyed my sandwich. A weakness of today is that I have checked my Emails and have a dozen of new assignments popped up that have made me feel pressured into giving up free time to complete them.

10/3/2017

Aim: To be able to create a computer game for a specific purpose

Objectives:

• Create backgrounds for your first two levels (Start and instruction screen)
• Create sprites and objects for your buttons
• Add code to make the buttons link to appropriate room
• Test your first two levels
• Any other resubmissions

Today I made the Main menu and Instructions menu in Photoshop. I think that I am proud of how they look because they are similar to how I planned them. On the other hand, I didn't manage to add them into my game or add buttons to them but I aim to do that on Wednesday next week. In the afternoon, I worked continuously on resubmissions and managed to complete two of them which I think is a decent amount of work.

8/3/2017

Aim: To produce designs for a computer game

Objectives:
Create basic design documents e.g. action plan, design specification, pseudo-code
State the importance of a data dictionary
Create a data dictionary for the computer game being created
Identify the features of programs
Explain key programming terms and techniques


Understand the main types of programming language
Understand that there are three paradigms and each’s strengths and weaknesses
Understand that there are different factors that can influence the choice of language used.

Understand the features of procedural programming
Understand the features of event driven programming
Understand the main points of object orientated programming
Understand the difference between procedural and object orientated programmingIndependently develop skills within programming
Identify the steps necessary to complete a project

Today we started off by completing more progress on our GameMaker unit. I have yet to finish my storyboard but am close to finishing it off, which is a strength of today. Also in the morning I had a mock job interview and I am happy because I got some good feedback from it. The only thing that I lacked was movement and expanding on points which I think these can definitely be improved. A major weakness of today is that I haven't felt 100% over the past couple of days but hopefully the cold should wear off soon.

3/3/2017

Aim: To be able to create a game in GameMaker

To be able to produce designs for a computer game
Objectives:
Complete SOA for U01
To add special effects to your first GM game
To make a character move in a specific path
Any other resubmissions

Today I learnt how to add sound effects effects into my game on GameMaker. An advantage of today is that I managed to complete a decent amount of work on Unit 6 work and still have a big amount of time to complete it. A weakness of today is that I never got around to adding a timeline or getting my charterer to move in a specific path. I need to know how to do this so I can use it in my game for Unit 22. This week has gone great for me because I think that I have been very organised in my work.

2/3/2017

Aim: To produce design documents for a computer game

Objectives:
Create some design documents for a computer game (action plan, design specification, storyboards)
Write basic pseudo-code
Write pseudo-code for iteration and selection methods for your computer game

Today I learnt what pseudo code is and how to write it. I think that I have completed a lot of work related to my computer game specification which is an advantage. A weakness of today is that I had issues opening GameMaker. When a tutor came to help the class fix it, it started working without him doing anything. Today I also found out that we are having mock interviews next Wednesday and so I have to prepare for that. I think that I will struggle to stay confident during it but I will try my best.

1/3/2017

Aim: To produce designs for a computer game

Objectives:
State some of the design documentation required when creating a computer game
Create an action plan for a computer game
Create a design specification for a computer game
Create a storyboard for a computer game


Understand that there are three main paradigms
Explain key programming terms and techniques

Understand the main types of programming language
Understand that there are three paradigms and each’s strengths and weaknesses
Understand that there are different factors that can influence the choice of language used.

Understand the features of procedural programming
Understand the features of event driven programming
Understand the main points of object orientated programming
Understand the difference between procedural and object orientated programming
Know why different data types are useful
Create an array
Write data into an array
Read data into an array

Today I learnt what an array is in computer programming. It is useful because it is efficient in time, space and makes the code more organised. An advantage of today is that I have finished a lot of assignments and re submissions that are due soon. A disadvantage of today is that I found it difficult to concentrate because of how drowsy I felt in the afternoon for some reason.

24/2/2017

Aim: Complete assignment 3
Objectives:
Ensure that PDP is complete and resubmitted if needed
Identify what needs to be included in a personal review
Complete and submit your review of your PDP.
Make sure you have no outstanding work for unit 01.

Independent study:
Complete and submit A1T1, A1T2
Any other resubmissions

Today I learnt how to improve my CV and what the most important aspects of it are. This morning I have mostly been working on completing my Unit 37 animation feedback assignment and an advantage of this is that I managed to finish it to a good standard. I think that I have written a good amount of work to get a Merit or possibly even a Distinction. A weakness of today is that I didn't manage to complete both Unit 22 assignments and they are due today. I need to complete the work by the end of today so I need to either complete it from home or stay in college after 3pm. I feel that this week has been good for me because I have managed to stay concentrated and motivated in completing work.

23/2/2017

Aims and Objectives 22/02/17

Aim: Be able to create a simple game in game maker
Understand the different types of computer games and platforms

Objectives:
Create sprites, characters and rooms in GameMaker
Program objects to perform simple actions e.g. collisions, move according to key presses
Describe some genres of computer games
State some gaming platforms
Describe some capabilities and features of some gaming platforms
Know some areas of development that need to be considered at the start of the design process

Today I learnt how to create a basic maze game in Game Maker. I learnt about using different features such as creating sprites and turning them into objects. A disadvantage of today is that I didn't manage to complete my game that I had been working on however it has been very useful to make a big start because I am now confident on creating a game for this unit in the near future. 

22/2/2017

Aims and Objectives 22/06/17
Aim: Understand the impact of computer games on society
Understand the psychological effects of computer games on society and individuals


Objectives:
Explain some benefits of computer gaming on society
Explain some concerns of computer games on society
Examine at least one psychological effects of computer gaming on society and individuals

Explain key programming terms and techniques

Outline the benefits of having a variety of data types available to the programmer
Explain sequence, selection and iteration as used in computer programming.

Understand the importance of variables
Identify key programming elements
Identify main data types
Justify suitable data types

Today I learnt how bad my lifestyle could become from playing computer games for long periods of time. This morning we discussed the advantages and disadvantages of playing computer games. A disadvantage of today is that I was very tired and didn't manage to stay fully awake to complete my work. An advantage however is that I am going to stay 3pm-4pm after college to complete the two pieces of work.

10/2/2017

Aim: Complete assignment 3

Objectives:
Set two SMART Targets
Ensure that PDP is complete and submitted
Identify why personal reviews are completed
Complete a review of your PDP.
Make sure you have no outstanding work for unit 01.

Today I learnt how to create rolling credits in Adobe Premiere Pro and made some for my 2D stop motion animation. A strength is that I have managed to complete my 2D animation in time before its due. A weakness that links to this is that I am not happy with the text frames because they do not look very professional in my opinion. I think that I could not have changed this because the software limits the animations and effects that you can use to make these. I am glad that I have finally submitted my personal development plan and that I dont have to update it from now.

The final link to my 2D Animation can be found here, let me know what you think: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aeirrOaprw

9/2/2017

Aim: Produce a good, technical or professional quality 2D Animation with a sound track.

Objectives:
Create an animation that is longer than 15 seconds and that contains sounds
Write a Production Log to the required standard that clearly states who has done what
Upload your animation to YouTube/Vimeo ro suitable other and include the link in your Production Log
Proofread and submit work
Aim: Write a report that either comments, explains or critically evaluates audiences responses to own 2D animation work, including subject terminology.
Objectives:
Recall key words related to the term ‘evaluation’
Consider specific terminology
Work well in teams and use active listening skills
Teach the group about key criteria for assignment 4

Today I learnt about the criteria for our new assignment. We had to create presentations explaining the criteria to other peers which I found really helpful and has given me confidence on getting a Merit on this assignment. My animation is now almost complete and I feel that I have made lots of progress editing it. A weakness of this week is that lack of sleep that I am still getting. I need to get to bed earlier because I am struggling to focus on working and keep loosing my train of thought. The animation is due tomorrow and I am confident in submitting it in time.

8/2/2017

Aim: Produce a good, technical or professional quality 2D Animation with a sound track.

Objectives:
Create an animation that is longer than 15 seconds and contains sounds
Write a Production Log to the required standard that clearly states who has done what
Proofread and submit work

Today I managed to complete all of the scenes of my animation and now have 17 seconds of stop motion which I am happy about. I have now moved onto editing. I aim to complete the animation by Friday which is the last day that we have to work on it. A weakness is that I had to convert everything that I had already written from my production log onto the assignment. This is the last week of term so I must work productively or I might have to come into college during half term but the only piece of work due this week is the 2D animation production log.

3/2/2017

Aim: Complete and submit A3T2
Objectives:
Set two SMART Targets
Ensure that PDP is complete and ready to submit
Identify preferred learning styles
Identify ways to support each learning style
Complete your assignment on learning styles.

Today I revised the learning style models which helped me complete the assignment that I managed to complete and submit today. A strength of today is that I have proofread my personal development plan to make sure that there are no grammar mistakes and that all of the boxes are filled in to a standard. I have also managed to complete the next scene of my animation which I am happy about. A disadvantage of today is that I had to delete the editing that I did for my animation on Windows Movie Maker because they have removed the timeline feature which means it was very difficult to edit.

2/2/2017

Aim: Produce a good, technical or professional quality 2D Animation with a sound track.

Objectives:
Set yourself a target to achieve
Review how well you achieve targets
Create an animation that is longer than 15 seconds and contains sounds
Write a Production Log to the required standard that clearly states who has done what

Today I learnt how important it is in stop motion animation to make very small movement and to keep a high amount of frames per seconds. This is because it will make a good and smooth animation instead of having big jumps. A weakness of today is that this caused me to recreate the first part of my animation. On the other hand, I have completed my SMART target by putting a lot of work into my production log and first scene of my animation. I am confident that I am able to complete the second part of my animation tomorrow in independent study time.

1/2/2017

Aim: Produce a good, technical or professional quality 2D Animation with a sound track.

Objectives:
Consider key criteria
View previous examples
Write a Production Log to the required standard that clearly states who has done what

Use four different programming languages
Explain key programming terms and techniques

Understand what programming is and how it can be useful
Understand the process of running a program
Outline the benefits of having a variety of data types available to the programmer
Explain sequence, selection and iteration as used in computer programming.

Understand basic instructions
Identify features of a program
Write simple programs in 4 / 5 different languages
Understand the importance of logical thinking
Identify key programming terminology 
Understand key programming terminology

Today I learnt about different types of coding languages. Each program might use a different form of code which is confusing because I might have to learn multiple forms of coding. A strength of today is that I am now able to start filming my animation tomorrow because I have prepared everything for it. On the other hand, a weakness of today was that I was unable to use a webcam because it would not stand up properly or focus.

27/1/2017

Set two SMART Targets
Recall different learning style models
Identify ways to support each learning style
Plan out how to answer an essay question.

Today we started off with an activity that let us recap on the different learning style models which will be helpful writing our new assignment. For most of the day today I had been working on finishing the plan for my animation in independent study time. I have managed to find a good soundtrack and sound effects to add into my animation which I am happy about. A weakness is that I was not confident in writing the essay on learning styles but I now know how to structure it properly and am confident in passing it.

26/1/2017

Aim: Outline, detail or thoroughly demonstrate ideas for a 2D Animation with a sound track.

Objectives:
Investigate examples and grade work
Demonstrate creative research skills
Outline, describe or explain three different ideas and select a final idea
Create a storyboard(s)
Write a Design Log to the required standard that clearly states who has done what

Today I did some creative research and made a spider diagram and a mood board to help me plan out some ideas for my 2D animation. My strength is that I have finally decided that my main idea is to create a health and safety informational guide aimed at teenagers to prevent hazards which are related to crossing the road and driving. A weakness of today is that I still am not feeling 100% after being absent yesterday. Hopefully I can recover tonight so I can work more efficiently tomorrow in independent study time and finish my animation planning.

20/1/2017

Aim: Research different learning styles models

Objectives:
Set two SMART Targets
Recall the VAK learning style
Work well in a group
Research different learning styles
Improve presentation skills

Today I learnt about ten more methods that people use to learn. We had to form up into a group to give a presentation and the four that our group had to cover were Concrete, Abstract, Random and Sequential. The weakness of this was that I did not cover a lot of information in the slide that I worked on and I could have contributed a lot more in our presentation. The main strength of today was that I managed to complete and submit a decent amount of work through my independent study time this afternoon. I think the lack of sleep that I am getting is lowering my concentration while working.

19/1/2017

Identify outstanding tasks
Identify upcoming deadlines
Identify areas of weakness
Research into weak areas of understanding
Complete outstanding tasks

Recall key facts about a brief
Write a brief
Define the term Pre-Production
Decide if you are working in suitable pairs and check these with the tutor
Decide upon an idea for your 2D animation
Write a Design Log to the required standard

Today I managed to complete assignment one for unit 37 which means I have one less piece of work due soon. I am finding myself to be very organised which is a strength of today. We had to decide upon our animation today and I started to plan it. I will be working individually to create an animation informing teenagers about health and safety hazards. The merit criteria states that the animation idea should be imaginative so I could make it funny to add a kick to it. A weakness of this week so far is lacking sleep as I am only getting about 6 hours per night which is why I am sometimes finding it difficult to stay concentrated while working.

18/1/2017

Lesson Aim:
Completion of various assignments and practical exercises

Learning Outcomes
Virtualisation project
Unit 10 P1, P2/M1, P4, D1
Unit 10 P4, D1
Unit 2 P5, P6, P7

Learning Objectives
Can show how an operating system is installed and software is updated to maintain security e.g. Anti Virus
Can explain Virtualisation and reasons for use
Install various software products to meet user specifications
Install Hardware items to meet a user specifications - Working to produce a completely functional PC.

Today I learnt how to add more virtual disk space to Ubuntu operating system. This massively benefited me because it allowed me to install multiple pieces of software as I had to screenshot them and show them in the virtualization assignment. An advantage of today is managing my workload in being more organised and completing the assignment that is due today. This means I have two days to complete two pieces of work which I am confident in doing.

13/1/2017

Aim: To create a document which shows how you reviewed and improved your presentation.

Objectives:
Use logical deductions to avoid mines
Set two SMART targets
Identify employability skills from their definition
Find more evidence to meet the merit
Define VAK

Today I we discussed about what way we prefer to learnt. I discovered that I prefer to learn visual rather than auditory and Kinesthetic. This means that I prefer learning by looking at things to remember them. We started off the day by playing mind sweep which I didn't manage to complete because I found it hard to understand. I only managed to set myself one SMART target today because I didn't manage to think of a second target for myself. In my independent study time, I managed to complete a good amount of work which I am happy about.

12/1/2017

Aim: Summaries, explain or comprehensively explain key historical developments of animation

Objectives:
Describe what Rotoscoping is and look at suitable examples from peers
Actively listen to input about Ofsted
Discuss key questions well in groups
Complete the Kahoot

Today I continued working on my assignments that are due this week however I just dont feel motivated about doing unit 10 work because I find it really difficult to understand. This could be because we have not really been taught about the subject so we have to research the information ourselves. I seem to be quite tired and struggling with my work load this week.

11/01/2017

Objectives:
Complete the A to Z for animation terms in pairs
Honestly answer questions for the survey
Define key words for different criteria
Write a report focused on animation techniques

Objectives
Identify the main differences between OSI and TCP/IP
Compare the OSI and TCP/IP models
Can identify how data is transmitted
Can explain the differences between OSI and TCP/IP
Can show how an operating system is installed and software is updated to maintain security e.g. Anti Virus
Can explain Virtualisation and reasons for use
Install various software products to meet user specifications

Today I revised about IP Addresses and MAC Addresses and why they are useful. This morning we did an activity which I found very useful with writing my first assignment for unit 37. This helped me because I am now confident in spotting the differences with summaries, explaining and comprehensively explaining. I am confident for going for the Distinction in this assignment so have decided to challenge myself in doing so which is a strength. A weakness of today is that I have checked my emails and discovered a ton of work due very soon. I thought I had it all completed over the weekend.

6/1/2017

Aim: To improve your evidence document to submission resubmission standard
Objectives:
Practice problem solving with numbers
Recall employability skills
Set two SMART targets
Improve your evidence document to pass standard
Recall key features of an evaluation
Escape a Zombie invasion

Today I we did a few problem solving maths challenges which were Sudoku and escaping a zombie invasion. I managed to complete the first one but I found the zombie invasion quite challenging for me. In this afternoons independent study time, I managed to push myself into completing both my evaluation (distinction) and my animation (P7) which I am proud of because I probably wouldn't be able to complete them both from home. This was our first week back from college and I feel that I have got back into the form of concentrating on work as during the Christmas break I was really lazy and didn't even think of assignments. I am happy that I have no more assignments due until a resubmission from the 9th of January.

5/1/2017

Aim: Write a review for one of your animations.
Objectives:
Discuss the best definition of the term ‘review’
Decide on six different key areas from your brief
Complete a star graph
Review a peer’s animation
Write a review
Write a headline for this session


Aim: Consider technical requirements for an evaluation and complete any outstanding work.
Objectives:
Identify the image search
Explain D2 criteria
Set yourself targets
Proofread work and submit

Today I learnt the main differences between a review and evaluations. A review is more assessment that contains what you had to do and your opinion while an evaluation could contain how you could improve or what went well for you. A strength of today was some of this morning and all afternoon I worked on finishing my looping animation. So far I am happy with the graphics of it and the use of colour that I used. A strength of today was the change of the seating plan because for some reason I feel that I am able to sustain my level of work more than I used to. This could be because the monitor is taller. On the other hand, I did not manage to write a review which is a downside today but I can improve the one that I already wrote.

4/1/2017

Install software to meet a given need
Understand the uses of virtualisation
Install a OS
Be able to use a non Windows / Mac OS
Set up a OS to meet user needs
Source suitable software packages
Install software packages
Record sufficient evidence
Record problems encountered
Solve problems encountered
Work on outstanding work

Today was our first day back after college and I had a very lazy break of the Christmas holidays because I just slept, ate and gamed a lot. Being back at college feels good in a way because I hate not staying active and being too lazy. In the morning, both groups combined and we got taught how to download and install a Virtualisation software and what they do. They are able to display what an operating system will look like and the user is able to test it. A let down of today was that I ran into a lot of errors while using this software that become very time consuming and frustrating.