Blog #2: Teaching Understanding

This week we learned how to use Apple computers and CSUSM's WebCT6. It was a VERY difficult transition from a PC to an Apple computer. I'm not looking forward to using an Apple Computer when teaching in a classroom. It is not as user friendly as I've always been told. You do have to memorize the commands for an Apple Computer which are not obvious to a broad spectrum learner.
As far as WebCT6, it has been very difficult finding which browsers are compatible with it using an Apple Computer at school and a home PC. It is not written for the broad spectrum learner as well and kicks a user out with fatal errors often. As a former software tester for Applied Materials I would probably frustrate the programmers of WebCT6 who want to design an exceptional software, because I don't think like a normal person. That's why Applied Materials always had me test the software. I was known to blow up most of the new custom network software in the late 1980's. If a program could get by me, it was acceptable for the company.
As far as teaching understanding, I think the new software designers need to understand that "inherently obvious" may pertain to narrow spectrum learners but not all types of learners. The learning software for Microsoft Project Management was fabulously written. I think Microsoft learning software is one of the best. They definitely know how software learners understand at all ages. So far I haven't run into a Microsoft program that I can blow up easily. Schools should definitely look into Microsoft products for teaching while using technology.