Unit 2

This week we installed Linux (Ubuntu) on a virtual machine in order to start working with it and to learn about using a command-line interface. I have to admit that I felt overwhelmed at first, as this is all brand-new to me. I have only ever used a Windows graphical user interface, so it is quite a learning curve.

 However, the more I read about it and do the tutorials, the more sense it is making. It was actually quite fun to play with the different commands, although I don't quite get the hang of it yet. It has helped to go back and watch the video tutorials and have the printed out tutorials in front of me as I practice. I watched and read the tutorials first to get an idea, but of course they did not make much sense until I started using the Terminal app to input commands.The reading, video and hands-on practice seem to be a good combination to use. I have a lot to figure out, but  I intend to keep going over these materials and to practice. Being able to use a command-line interface seems like a good skill to have, and I am excited to learn more about it.

I am also really enjoying the reading "In the Beginning was the Command Line" by Neal Stephenson--he approaches the topic in an accessible way which is helping me gain a deeper understanding of the differences between the two types of interfaces, as well as a better understanding of operating systems in general.

Unit 1

Hi, welcome to my blog for IRLS 672, Introduction to Applied Technology. This first week we have been learning about Linux and visited the Ubuntu Forums. Exploring the Absolute Beginners Section, I was interested in the variety of topics brought up, as well as the variety of technological exprience of those asking questions. It was reassuring to know that people with all levels of experience were present in the forum, and the answers seemed to be civil and genuinely helpful.

One interesting thread that I came across regarded word processors in Ubuntu. The user had recently switched from Windows Vista to Ubuntu, and as a student was thrown off by no longer having the use of Microsoft Office, particularly Word. After trying out LibreOffice, the user did not think it met their needs and  had not been able to find a word processor that they liked. They received many helpful suggestions, including the fact that it may be possible to run Microsoft Office in Ubuntu. Several people suggested that the user revisit LibreOffice, and a forum moderator also contributed a lot of advice on how to make LibreOffice work for the user's needs. I had never heard of LibreOffice and am now curious to try it out. Overall, it seems that the Beginners forum will be a very helpful resource as I learn more about Ubuntu.