Distance Learning IS

During our online class, we were given the opportunity to learn about concepts in abstract through our textbook, and then apply what we learned to real life applications. Furthermore, this courses format was made possible by the many systems and technologies described within our text. Often, the course format itself, and the technologies that supported it, provided real life reinforcement of the abstract concepts presented within our text.

In chapter one, we were given an overview of the use of information systems in organizations. Clearly, information systems are also very important within distance learning as well, as we all quickly learned how to use our online course portal, Moodle, read the professors task blog, and set up our blogs. In chapter two, we learned about hardware and software, which also played a vital role in our completion of this online course. Not only was it imperative for us to have the proper hardware (computer, mouse, keyboard, internet hookup, etc.), but we also needed specific software in order to preform needed operations (such as a specific operating system and browser).

In addition, in chapter three of the textbook, we learned about database systems and business intelligence. Using Zoho Reports to create an online database, we learned both about databases, and cloud computing. Zoho allows the user shared storage space, and access the features of software via a website, using their browsers. These types of services can be described as SaaS or "Software as a Service". In addition, we experimented with SQL queries and learned how to extract and manipulate data from a large database utilizing the sample databases provided by Zoho Reports.

In the following chapters, we learned about concepts such as e-commerce, m-commerce, artificial intelligence, DSS, KMS, MIS, Cloud Computing, Web 2.0, Inranets, Extranets, and telecommunications. As we continued through the class, I became more aware of how these concepts were represented in things I had previously taken for granted, such as Email, facebook, Luminis, online music services, blogger, and moodle. Email was a large part of our course, as Moodle could be set to send an email whenever one of our discussion posts was responded to. Furthermore, the Blogger and Zoho sites were integral to our course. Furthermore, specific features such as moodle messaging, discussion forums, and more allowed us to communicate effectively with our professor and peers. Even TPS and e-commerce (Transaction Processing Systems) were utilized in our class, as many of us paid for our tuition online with a credit card, and bought our books online as well.

Overall, I enjoyed this class, and felt that what I learned in these three weeks will truly prove to be useful in the years to come. Even though this class was far from my normal discipline (I am a history major) I still benefited from the information and concepts presented within this course. In an increasingly globalized world, where technology plays a huge part in almost any occupation, I now realize that an understanding of information technologies is absolutely vital.