Personal Retrospective

             I am not sure where to begin or what to say about the last 7 weeks in this class.  To be honest, I absolutely hated programming prior to taking this class.  I still dislike writing code because I have not been able to figure out how to modify it or write it from scratch.  I have been proud of every build we did during this class, so it is hard for me to pick out a favorite.  Since we have to pick a favorite, I suppose I will have to say it was the 7-segment display.  I liked having to trace which leg on the IC had to be connected to the appropriate numbered pin on the display.  I had difficulty with the initial test because a portion of the display did not light up.  After I switched a couple of the connections the display worked perfectly.

            The thing I learned is how to use Sketchup, or at least I “kind of learned” it.  I will most likely never use Sketchup ever again but having to use it did stretch my capabilities.  I prefer using CAD programs such as Autodesk Inventor because I have used it for years.  I could have done my Maker Space design much faster if I had used a program that was familiar to me, but I would not have learned something new by doing it that way.  I did learn that I am tenacious enough not to give up on trying new things that make me uncomfortable.  I also learned how to set up a YouTube channel and upload videos. 

            My challenges each week were the same.  Never enough time to work on assignments during the week was the biggest challenge, which made my lack of programming skills prevent me from learning how to modify the code as my classmates were doing on their projects.  Another challenge was working off of a hot spot for internet connection.  The last time I was taking classes I was close enough to campus to drive and use the all-night computer lab or park outside of a building and use the campus WIFI.  A 2-minute video should not take 3 hours to upload!

            My next adventure is to have my own equipment to play with here at my own home.  I have wanted a 3D Printer and a Laser Engraver for my house for several years.  I want to be able to teach my grandchildren how to use these machines because their schools do not have Maker Spaces.  I may not be able to afford these things, but I am going to work toward that goal.

            I really enjoyed working with everyone during this class and seeing all the wonderful accomplishments everyone made.  I pray that you all are successful in your endeavors.