Future Growth

Hello everyone! Ashton here with my third blog post. Phase 2 has been a pretty interesting mix of new challenges and useful skills, and I’m starting to see how everything in this course connects together.

Phase 2 really tested my ability to stay focused and keep pushing through. Microsoft Excel was bigger than I expected. There were a lot of functions, formulas, and data analysis tools that took time to get comfortable with. The URL Components and Social Engineering topics were eye-opening too. I never realized how much information is packed into a simple web address or how easily people can be tricked online. The A6 Spreadsheet Analysis with the Trailer assignment was probably the most challenging part for me. It took a while to get everything organized and to understand exactly what the questions were asking for. There were moments I felt stuck, but I kept going back to the material and eventually figured it out. I’m proud I didn’t give up on it even when it got frustrating. Overall, I think I performed decently in Phase 2, but I know I could have been more consistent with daily practice instead of longer study sessions.

In Chapter 5, I worked on more advanced features in Microsoft Word. This chapter focused on things like mail merge, which was completely new to me. At first it felt confusing and technical, but once I understood the concept of linking versus embedding data, it started to make more sense. I can see how useful this would be in a real workplace situation. It definitely pushed me outside my comfort zone compared to Chapter 4, but I feel like I gained a practical skill that goes beyond just formatting documents.

One of the best parts of Phase 2 is how applicable the material is to real life. I’ve already started paying much closer attention to URLs and suspicious links before clicking on anything. I’ve also been using Excel at home to organize my personal budget and track expenses, which feels satisfying because I can actually see the value of what I’m learning. These skills aren’t just for class. They’re helping me become more careful and organized in everyday situations.

Looking ahead to Phase 3, which is all about creativity and actually bringing ideas to life, I’ve been thinking about my approach. So far in this course I’ve mostly focused on completing what’s required and doing it well. But I want to shift into a higher gear. I’m going to make a conscious effort to upgrade my mindset. Not just meeting the requirements, but trying to do my best work and really get creative with the assignments. I believe putting in that extra effort now will help me build better habits and get more out of the rest of the class.

Overall, Phase 2 has been a solid growing experience. I’ve learned new technical skills, become more aware of online safety, and gained a better understanding of where I need to improve my consistency. I’m excited to carry that momentum into Phase 3 and see what I can create.

Mid Growth in IS101

Looking back on Phase 1 of IS101, I would say I performed fairly well overall, but not without some avoidable setbacks. My grades were solid, and I understood most of the material, but I did fall behind at times. Ironically, part of that came from getting too far ahead early on and I assumed I was more caught up than I actually was, which led to me overlooking a few assignments. Although I eventually completed and submitted everything, it definitely created unnecessary stress. If I could do anything differently moving into future phases, I would focus on consistency. Instead of cramming LabSim work into one long session, I would spread it out and complete it daily. That approach would not only reduce stress but also improve retention. I would also make a stronger effort to attend class more regularly. While I was able to teach myself most of the material, I recognize that being present could have reinforced my understanding and helped me stay better aligned with deadlines.

In Chapter 4.9, which focused on using themes, styles, and templates, I felt fairly confident going in because I already had some experience with formatting in Word. However, this chapter helped refine and expand that knowledge. I gained a better understanding of how to apply styles more efficiently and consistently, and how templates can streamline document creation. Overall, it didn’t feel entirely new, but it definitely made my skills more polished and intentional.

To prepare for the upcoming MO-110 Word certification exam, I have been consistently practicing through LabSim by retaking labs and completing practice exams multiple times. Repetition has been key for me. Each time I go through the material, I feel more confident in my ability to navigate Word and apply the required skills. Instead of just memorizing steps, I’ve focused on understanding why certain tools and features are used, which I believe will help me perform better during the actual exam.

If there’s anything I would share with others taking this course, it’s to stay consistent and not get too comfortable, even if you feel ahead. It’s easy to underestimate how quickly small assignments can pile up. Managing your time and pacing your work makes a huge difference. Also, don’t rely entirely on cramming it might work in the short term, but spacing out your practice leads to a much better understanding in the long run.

Overall, this phase has been a good learning experience for me, not just in terms of technical skills in Word, but also in how I manage my time and approach my work.

Personal Introduction

Hello everyone! My name is Ashton Turunc and this is my first blog post. I’m excited and a little curious to be starting this journey, especially knowing that anyone could be reading this. I’ve always been interested in technology and how it works. I feel comfortable using tech more than most people, so I’m looking forward to seeing how this class builds on what I already know while also teaching me new skills.

My first impression of IS101 was curiosity. Getting into the class, I honestly didn’t know exactly what it would be about, which made it interesting rather than intimidating. As I’ve started working through the material, I can see how the course helps students understand everyday technology and how to use it effectively and responsibly. It feels practical and relevant, which makes it easier to stay engaged.

For Discussion 2 Part 2, the LabSim skill I worked on was 1.4.15, Configure Privacy Settings in Google Chrome. I already knew how to adjust many of the basic settings, but this lab showed me more detailed ways to improve my security and privacy online. It helped me understand how small changes in browser settings can make a big difference in protecting personal information. I think everyone should know this. 

One of my main goals for this class is to complete the LabSim assignments efficiently so I can work toward finishing the course early. That would give me more time to focus on myself and my other class, English 102. Overall, I’m excited to keep learning, strengthen my tech skills, and see how IS101 can help me both academically and in everyday life.