Project: Database

By completing the database project, I learned a lot. Literally everything that was in the lecture videos and that Mr. Olson taught on Microsoft Access was new information. I had never heard of Microsoft Access and certainly never used it. The capabilities this program has are remarkable for organizing data and tracking information for a company or business purposes. I knew nothing about the program or how to use it. I learned how to organize data, compile lists and organize by certain criteria, and track trends in the data.

I believe that Microsoft Access is a very useful tool in the  business setting. However, I found it very difficult to use. Even after watching the lectures, taking notes, and rewatching the lectures, I still found myself confused on many of the tasks and how to complete them. Perhaps this is a program that takes a lot of practice to master.

Presentation Project

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWVTSg2qW6c

For my presentation, I chose Wounded Warrior Project as my philanthropic organization. I have completed multiple Powerpoint presentations in the years past for various classes and for presentations in my workplace. However, this was my first time being “trained” on the correct way to give memorable presentations. It was also my first time recording my own voice along with a presentation.

If I were to give myself a letter grade on how well I completed this project, I would give myself an A- or B+. I think I did well, but there were a few points that could have been improved. For example, there were a few spots in the voice recording where I stumbled on my words. Looking back, I should have re-recorded this and made it smoother. I believe I performed strongly in all of the other areas based off the Presentation Evaluation Rubric. There was a logical flow and sequence of content: I started out introducing the organization I was discussing, gave some information on what they do, who they serve, examples of programs, and how my audience can help. On my peer critique, the grader stated that I could have done a better job grabbing the audience’s attention. I agree with this. Maybe my next presentation could start out with a question or a story to draw them in. All of the information I presented could be validated and confirmed through the Wounded Warrior Project website, which is where I gathered my information. One thing I learned during the Presentations week is how to reduce clutter. I tried to minimize information on the screen and eliminate bullet points as much as possible. I know personally that I have a hard time reading what is on a screen and listening to the presenter simultaneously. I did not want my audience to have to try to do this and potentially miss an important point I was saying.

Overall, I think I did well on the presentation project. I applied tips I learned from the presentations week and Dr. Means’ lectures, which made my presentation more effective and hopefully memorable. Also, critiquing myself and having a peer critique my work allowed me to see what was done well and what needs improvement for my next presentation.