Learning Styles, Open Source Software, and Cloud Computing

This week we learned about open source software and continued our education of cloud computing. Open source software and cloud computing are both double edged swords. They are great for consumers because they present a similar program to commercial products that is more cost-effective. It is crazy to spend hundreds of dollars on a program like Microsoft Word or Photoshop when it is available for free download or through cloud computing. However, from a corporate standpoint, these types of software place a huge dent in the profit margin. It is unfortunate that corporations spend a lot of time, money, and resources for the development of software only to have it pirated by open source and cloud computing software developers. I am surprised the developers are able to get away with creating such similar programs without having to worry about copyright issues. In the short run, open source software is convenient for the consumer, but it only hurts to development of technology in the long run.

I also enjoyed taking the learning styles quiz. I knew I was an aural learner but I didn't expect to have such a lead against the other styles-I had 12 points for aural! Basically, this means that I learn best through asking question and vocal explanation. I don't do well with written direction or notes--I like lecture classes and verbal direction.

I will use open source software in my career. For my first job, I will most likely end up at a small station with limited equipment but I will undoubtedly have projects that require topnotch editing software. Final Cut Pro is an incredibly expensive suite to buy so I will use open source alternatives like Kino or Cinelerra. I liked the websites we were shows that offer open source software for free download. I'm sure I will use several of these programs in both my educational and professional careers.

In terms if learning styles, it is important that I understand the implications of my favored learning style and how the other learning styles work. I will have to work with multiple learning styles and personalities during my career as a journalist so I will need to understand how to relate and speak to those differing styles. I have done more research on my aural style of learning and got some tips on how to better my own learning process.

I loved the cartoon that is at the top of my blog entry. I think it personifies the Abstract-Sequential learner down to a tee. In case you were wondering, this type of learner is sure of themselves, have academic sources, extensive research, and are respected for their intellectual ability. They are also analytical thinkers that ask a lot of questions.