Both sessions - 31/10/2019

Session 14 - Aims & Objectives - 31/10/19

Lesson Aims:
Create a poster for Computational Thinking
Test knowledge on Data Structures
Test knowledge learned thus far through a revision test
Introduce concept of Insertion sort, work through examples by hand
Work on completion of KIAN, make revision resources, practice coding, revision aids, etc
Learn about social anxiety

Learning Objectives:
Note taking and research skills
Group working
Coding Skills

My blog:

Today I learned about computational thinking and data structures. I did a good job during the revision test and passed it, although my score was low and I could have scored better. On reflection, I believed that I should have revised more. In the future I will make sure to do some more revision and possibly make use of learning support if I struggle with anything.

I have no new deadlines but as previously mentioned I need to get my Unit 7 assignment in by 06/11/2019 and my Unit 15 assignment in by 07/11/2019.

Afternoon session - 30/10/2019

Lesson 7 - Aims and Objectives
Lesson Aims - to prepare for the completion of Assignment 1 and to set up virtual wifi security networks

AO1 - Describe the main applications of Cryptography - Secure Website communication, VPNs and WIFI access
AO2 - Complete the PacketTracer file which requires varying levels of security
AO3 - Access other PacketTracer files shared on Classrooms

My blog

I learned about the applications of cryptography today, I did a very good job in quickly cracking on with a task set in a PacketTracer file. However I did complete my work prematurely but did not inform the tutor which I feel that I should have done so he could advise me what to do. In the future I will do so. I have the usual deadlines I have previously mentioned, one of those examples is the deadline for 06/11/2019 for A1 of Unit 7

Morning session - 30/10/2019

Today I learned how to code and create a website. I did a very good job learning, selecting and using code from an online resource I was instructed to use by my course tutor. However I did get a bit confused as to what I method I should have used and I was guided as to what I should do by my course tutor, in the future I will learn from that by asking for assistance at an earlier stage if and when I get confused by the task in hand. I have no new deadlines but am going to be set a new assignment for Unit 15, namely Assignment 3 (A3) and I still have my existing deadlines. To be specific, I was originally set the A2 deadline for 01/11/2019 but have been granted a weeks extension on that assignment and I have the Unit 7 deadline for A1 which is 06/11/2019.

Afternoon session - 29/10/2019

Aims and Outcomes 29/10/19
Aim: To design a website to meet client requirements

Outcomes:
Create a prototype of your web pages using Axure RP
Create an asset table for your website
Explain search engine optimisation techniques used
Create a test plan for your website
Explain the legal and ethical considerations required
Collect feedback for your design
Make changes to your design based on feedback
Justify your design decisions

My blog
Today I learned more about how to design and prototype my website. I did a good job creating a good quality prototype for my website but I have lagged behind other students in that I did not start creation of the actual website. I will work with my course tutor to ensure that I start this without delay, on reflection I could have possibly avoided this situation by doing more work on this assignment outside of lessons.

My deadlines are the same as I have previously mentioned on my blog today, however I have been informed that I am going to have another assignment set, specifically Assignment 3 (A3).

Morning session 29/10/2019

Lesson Aims:
Practice learned knowledge through exercises
Introduce the concept of Sorting Algorithms, looking at Bubble Sort initially
Practice physically sorting lists using the Bubble Sort algorithm

Learning Objectives:
Practice knowledge learned of Stacks & Queues
Identify different sorting methods
Use bubble sort to order simple lists
Use bubble sort to order intermediate lists

My blog

Today I learned about different types of sorting algorithm within the context of data structures. I did a good job working in a team with my classmate and ensuring that his answers were correct by working through the questions with him. However I did make some mistakes when using the bubble sort technique, I will make sure to revise it and familarise myself with its use before I use it in the future.

I have two deadlines which were previously set, specifically one for Unit 15 which is 01/11/2019 and also Unit 7 which is 06/11/2019. However I was not set any deadlines or assignments today.

Both sessions - 17/10/2019

Lesson Aims:
Practice creating functions, pseudocode and flowcharts
Introduce and explore the concept of stacks and queues
Revise knowledge using KnowItAlLNinja
Identify the importance of internet safety
Practice programming skills

Learning Objectives:
Create pseudocode and flowcharts to describe a function
Use the above to create python code
Reinforce knowledge using KnowItAllNinja
Identify the importance of staying safe online
Write code using Python

My blog

Today I learned more about creating functions, pseudocode and flowcharts, as well as the concept of stacks and queues and the importance of internet safety. I also practiced my programming skills.

I did a good job when making an internet safety poster which was shown to the rest of the class, my course tutor noticed this and praised me for my efforts. 

My poster included the following tips: be aware of who you are speaking to online, make sure that you know what location information you are sharing, take care when you are using a webcam online, and finally you should consider your digital footprint. If you do not want everyone else to see something, then do not publicly post it online.

However I did discover that my knowledge on Unit 1, which covers the Principles of Computer Science, was lacking. This was shown as I scored a low score on a Kahoot quiz, which did surprise me.

In the future I will do more revision to make sure that I familiar with the appropriate Unit knowledge which will hopefully be reflected when it comes to exams.

I have a new deadline which is 29/10/2019, during this time I need to get myself up to scratch on Know It All Ninja, which is a website that provides revision material and quizzes. I also need to submit my assignments on or before my existing deadlines which are 06/11/2019 for the Unit 7 assignment and 01/11/2019 for the Unit 15 assignment.

Afternoon session - 16/10/2019

Lesson Objective - to understand the fundamental purpose of Cryptography

AO1 - Make notes on the history and essentials of Cryptography and Encryption
AO2 - Understand the uses of Encryption - including DRM, Hashing and Secure Transactions
AO3 - Complete a hash on a string
AO4 - Begin to investigate Cryptographic methods such as Hashing and Block / Stream Cyphers

My blog
Today I learned about encryption in more detail, areas covered included methods of cryptography, digital rights management and encryption protocols.

I did a good and efficient job at completing a worksheet which my tutor tasked me with completing.

I have looked at my progress today but could not determine any weaknesses, I will make sure to keep up the good work that I demonstrated in this lesson.

I have no new deadline but must submit my work in my the aforementioned deadlines, see my earlier post for details.

Morning session - 16/10/2019

Aims and Outcomes 16/10/19
Aim: To design a website to meet client requirements

Outcomes:
Create a prototype of your web pages using Axure RP
Create an asset table for your website
Explain search engine optimisation techniques used
Create a test plan for your website
Explain the legal and ethical considerations required
Collect feedback for your design
Make changes to your design based on feedback
Justify your design decisions

My blog

Today I did some work with developing the prototype my website and completing the associated Unit 15 assignment sheet. 

I did a good job designing my website and did get some positive feedback about it both from other pupils and my tutor.

However I did make a mistake when designing it which I soon rectified.

On reflection I did a pretty good job with the prototype of my website today.

I have no new deadlines but must submit my Unit 15 assignment by 01/11/2019 and my Unit 7 assignment by 06/11/2019.

Morning session - 15/10/2019

Session 11 - Aims & Objectives - 15/10/19

Lesson Aims:
Investigate Data Structures: Records/structs and Sets
Affirm knowledge using Know it all Ninja
Complete a revision test

Learning Objectives
Explain the premise of Records/structs and sets
Explain the usages of records / structs and sets
Complete a revision test
Complete a revision test and score > 50%
Complete a revision test and score > 65%
Reinforce knowledge using Know it all Ninja

My blog

Today I learned more about pseudocode and how to spot and debug errors in it.

I did a very good job of analysing it and spotting some errors.

However I did struggle when it came to explaining things in a practice test. I feel that this may have been down to my knowledge lapsing.

I will do more frequent revision in the future in order to try and prevent my knowledge from lapsing.

I have no new deadlines but I must hand in my assignments by 01/11/2019 for the Unit 15 one and 06/11/2019 for the Unit 7 one.

Both sessions 10/10/2019

Session 10 - Aims & Objectives - 10/10/19

Lesson Aims:
Test knowledge learned thus far in learning aims A/B/C
Introduce the concept of Data Structures
Identify the differences / similarities between Arrays and Lists
Practice programming

Learning Objectives
Complete Quizziz on learning aims A/B/C
Complete Quizziz on learning aims A/B/C, scoring > 50%
Complete Quizziz on learning aims A/B/C, scoring > 75%
Investigate Arrays and Linked Lists
Explain the advantages / disadvantages of arrays and linked lists
Practice programming skills
Work on revision material for U1

My blog

Today I have learned about dyslexia and I have also done some programming in python. I have also caught up on some programming topics on Know It All Ninja.

I did a good job on enthusiastically catching up on programming topics on Know It All Ninja whilst making an effort to achieve a high score and also in writing and debugging Python code.

However I did discover some gaps in my knowledge during an unannounced quiz which was carried out using a platform called Quizziz which did make me look a bit lacking in knowledge!

On reflection I will make sure to spend more time refreshing my knowledge of the unit I am studying.

I have no new deadlines but I do need to do the Unit 15 assignment by 01/11/2019 and the Unit 7 assignment by 06/11/2019.

Both sessions - 09/10/2019

Aims and Outcomes 09/10/19

U15 Website Development

Aim: To design a website to meet client requirements

Outcomes:
Create a prototype of your web pages using Axure RP
Create an asset table for your website
Explain search engine optimisation techniques used
Create a test plan for your website
Explain the legal and ethical considerations required

U07 Security & Encryption

Aim: To be able to recognize risky behavior when it comes to processing and using data

Outcomes:
Discover how risky your behavior is by completing the Cisco assessment
Research task to discover who owns your online data
Complete the sheet that allows you to understand and create a strong password
Register on PacketTracer and complete the tasks on the sheet

My Blog

Today I learned more about creating a prototype of my website using Axure RP. I also learned how risky my online behaviour is and about how owns my online data.

I did a good job going through the sheet and did make quite some effort at doing it in detail, I also did a good job on the prototype of my website which I have already started.

I did however lag behind other students when it went to speed and efficiency in the worksheet. 

However I cannot find any weaknesses on my part when it went to creating the prototype of my website and the associated assignment which relates to assignment 2 of Unit 15 which is about websites.

On reflection I think I should have asked for assistance from my course tutor during the afternoon lesson at an earlier stage as I was confused by the tasks on the sheet and therefore did not manage to get through them. I also think I could have dealt with the worksheet quicker and more efficiently so will endeavour to make improvements in that area in the future.

There are no new deadlines but I still need to make sure all assignments are handed in on or before the existing deadlines.

Afternoon session - 08/10/2019

Aims and Outcomes 08/10/19
Aim: To design a website to meet client requirements

Outcomes:
Explain the purpose and audience for your website
Create a prototype of your web pages using Axure RP
Create an asset table for your website
Explain search engine optimisation techniques used
Create a test plan for your website
Explain the legal and ethical considerations required

My blog

Today I learned more about creating a prototype of my website using Axure RP. I also made an unsuccessful attempt at creating an origami fish using a piece of A4 paper.

I did a good job using Axure RP to continue creating my website. I even created pages which I did not plan in advance.

However I accept that I did get confused on how to create a photo gallery. Therefore I skipped that task. I will have to get round to doing it.

I should have asked for assistance on creating the photo gallery as this is not something that I am familiar with.

I have no new deadlines but I must submit my current assignments in time for the existing assignment deadlines. I must also make sure to keep up the good work and comply with my SMART targets.

Morning session 08/10/2019

Session 09 - Aims & Objectives - 08/10/19

Lesson Aims:
Practice utilising Input Validation
Investigate Control Structures
Examine how functions work in Python, and general programming
Practice Programming

Learning Objectives:
Create simple input validation for 3 input fields
Create simple input validation for 3-5 input fields
Create simple input validation for 5 or more input fields
Conduct research and explain the premise of control structures
Identify the importance of control structures
Examine the use of functions

My blog

Today I learned about how functions work in Python, pseudocode and general programming.

I did a good job researching this subject and I managed to include some material into my notes using this research. I made sure to reference my source material and tried my best to put it into my own words.

However I feel that I could have included more material in my notes and that they could have been more detailed.

In the future I will attempt to incorporate more material into my notes which will be helpful when it comes to revising for exams. I will make sure that my notes are more detailed and of a better quality than previously. I will do this by moving onto the next subject more quickly should I become stuck, I can always ask for help if I feel that I need it.

Whilst no deadline was set, I must still meet my current deadlines.

My full day - 03/10/2019

Session 08 - Aims & Objectives - 03/10/19

Lesson Aims:
Identify faults in Pseudocode and justify fixes.
Explore the area of Validation.
Check knowledge on programming variables
Complete a Mock exam, peer mark afterwards
Learn about the importance of personal hygiene

Learning Objectives
Identify faults in pseudocode
Propose fixes to faults, justifying reasoning.
Identify how and why to use validation
Investigate how to use validation in Python
Score at least 50% in a mock exam
Score at least 65% in a mock exam
Score over 75% in a mock exam

My blog

Today I learned about Pseudocode and also personal hygiene during my tutorial hour in the afternoon.

I did a good job figuring out Pseudocode and asking for help as and when required i.e. when I got stuck on the odd occasion and had no other way of figuring out the solution to the problem.

However I did encountering the odd bit of difficulty during my mock exam which appears to be as a result of me lacking sufficient knowledge in the area of writing and understanding Pseudocode.

I feel that I could have done a better job revising this in advance of the mock exam, even though I did not know about it in advance. I will make sure to do that in the future in the hope of avoiding a similar situation.

I have set myself a number of SMART targets to be completed by 10/10/2019 but have not been set any further assignments today.

My SMART targets are the following:

I need to avoid allowing other students pressure me into behaving in an inappropriate manner e.g. mentioning inappropriate things or swearing. I also need to avoid letting them distract me from the task in hand and ensure that I am concentrating on my work 100% of the time during lessons. I will also ensure that I follow the advice previously given to me by Andy Smith.

To try and do as much coursework as is possible outside class hours. I need to ensure that I will do the right thing even when no one is looking.

To try and improve my teamworking technique when working with other classmates. This applies to Nathan in particular as he is the person I usually work with.

Afternoon session - 02/10/2019

Lesson Objectives: To understand how different forms of viruses are spread and to be able to recommend suitable AV products to businesses

AO1 - Describe the different forms of Malware and how they operate
AO2 - Identify the Best products for keeping a business safe from viruses and data loss
AO3 - Identify the threats that exist today and surround the cyber security world

My blog

Today I learned more about computer and network security, specifically on how to protect a business network and its computers from being infected by malware and other threats.

I did demonstrate a good learning ability and also my prior knowledge on the subject.

However I do feel that I did attempt to provide an excessive amount of detail and only focused on a limited amount of information sources.

In the future I will make sure that I try my best to get the task done in full, even if that means omitting some level of detail from it.

I have an assignment set which is due in on 06/11/2019.

Morning session - 02/10/2019

Aims and Outcomes 02/10/19
Aim: To design a website to meet client requirements

Outcomes:
Develop alternative ideas for your website
Create a site map to show how your web pages are related
Create a prototype of your web pages using Axure RP
Explain search engine optimisation techniques used
Create an asset plan for your website
Create a test plan for your website

My blog

Today I have achieved some progress on my existing website drafts and created a new alternative page design.

My strengths in doing this were my ability to translate my progress on paper to electronic versions of three of my web page designs.

My weaknesses in doing this was my occasional hesitation in doing this and the occasional moment of getting stuck on trying to design my website. This was problematic as this did hamper my progress. 

It may have been prudent to ask for help from my tutor, however I could not have asked for help from a learning support assistant as there was no learning support assistant present in the classroom today.

I have not got a new deadline, but I do still need to make sure that my assignment for this unit is handed in on time. The deadline for that is 01/11/2019.

Afternoon session - 01/10/2019

Aims and Outcomes 01/10/19
Aim: To design a website to meet client requirements

Outcomes:
Explain the client requirements and intended audience
Develop alternative ideas for your website
Create a site map to show how your web pages are related
Create a prototype of your web pages using Axure RP
Explain search engine operation techniques used
Create a test plan for your website
Explain the legal and ethical considerations required

My blog

Today I have learned how to use Axure RP to create a prototype of the homepage of my website.

It was an interesting process and I did manage to figure out how to use the software to create a rough draft of my home page. I was good at laying things out and designing the page.

However my design was basic and I feel that I could have progressed to a more advanced level. Whilst I feel that this was due to no fault of my own, I should have been more willing to request assistance from my tutor or the learning support assistant.

In the future I will make sure to ask for help when needed. I will also make sure to keep up the good work and put in 100% effort.

Whilst no new deadlines were set, the one for assignment 2 (A2) still stands. I will make sure to meet that deadline.

Morning session 01/10/2019

Session 07 - Aims & Objectives - 01/10/19

Lesson Aims:
Examine translating python to pseudocode / Flowcharts
Investigate Data Structures and Functions in Python
Check knowledge learned using Quizzes and Knowitallninja
Research and explain the use of Arithmetic, string handling, and general functions in Computer Science

Learning Objectives:
Identify how to create pseudocode / flowcharts from Python code
Create pseudocode and flowcharts from simple Python code
Create pseudocode and flowcharts from Python code
Identify and explain the use of Data structures in Python
Research Arithmetic Functions
Explain the use of Arithmetic Functions
Research String handling Functions
Explain the use of String handling Functions
Research general purpose Functions
Explain the use of general purpose Functions

My blog

Today I learned more about how to write in pseudocode and how to translate a program (written in Python) into pseudocode. I also learned more about how to write in Python.

I was good at writing up my pseudocode and did a good job writing some Python programs.

However I did make the mistake of using functions in Python when my tutor wanted us to code a program which could do the job without relying on them.

I should have clarified this point with him and made sure to write my program as he requested instead of jumping in and making the assumption that it would be OK. I will make sure to learn from my mistake in the future.

Deadline
To finish my pseudocode conversions by 08/10/2019