Girl Scouts and Technology Event

On Saturday November 14th, a few friends and I volunteered to help around 50 Girl Scouts earn badges for Movie Maker and Website Designer. This was a pretty amazing experience, as I was a Girl Scout myself. Also, being one of the only females in my major, it’s fantastic to see girls interested in things like web design and digital movie making.

The Event

We had around 45 girls in 6^th-8^th grade that were there to work on their Cadette badge, Digital Movie Maker.

There were 3 Senior girls in 9^th and 10^th grade working on their Web Designer badge.

What did we teach?

For the Cadette girls, we discussed story boarding and planning videos. These girls then worked in groups to plan out a video. They had time to use their iPads or cell phones to take pictures and videos. After lunch, they came back and began using Windows Movie Maker to put their videos together. Many of the girls had already used Windows Movie Maker before, but there were still several volunteers there to help.

For the Senior girls, we discussed the basics of blogging and creating a website. This involved choosing a topic, preferably related to Girl Scouts, and planning out a few posts. They went outside, using their cell phones to get pictures and videos for their blog posts. After lunch, each girl created a blog on blogger and created their posts. During this time, we also covered WordPress and basic html on W3Schools.

This day reinforced my belief that the Girl Scouts are working towards STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) by providing opportunity for girls to get experience in these fields. There were almost 50 girls from Western Pennsylvania that have now had more hands-on experience with computers and technology.

Perhaps, in a few years, the technology field will not be as male-dominated as it is today. 

Thanks for reading,

Amanda

Sitting at your computer is causing you problems

What’s the problem?

Many people are confined to sitting at a desk in front of a computer for the job or for their own entertainment. However, our bodies are not designed for sitting at a computer desk all day. This can cause issues because of how our bodies react.

Sitting has been linked to these problems

• Low energy
• Metabolism slowing
• Bad posture
• Back pain and/or injury
• Limited social interaction
• Chronic pain
• Obesity
• Risk of diabetes and heart disease
• Depression
• Organ damage

Want to read more about the problems sitting causes? Check out articles by the Mayo Clinic, Harvard Health, and The Washington Post.

What to do about it?

Since sitting at a computer is part of most careers and jobs, we cannot simply eliminate the cause of the problem. There are some things that we can do:

•           Stretching
•           Standing Desks

How does stretching help?

Stretching can help in that it works to undo the compression caused by sitting. These stretches are meant to target the hips and lower back to alleviate pain and pressure. Stretching to undo the damage of sitting can be done almost anywhere, and a few of the common stretches can even use your current desk. Many yoga poses would also help to alleviate the problems caused by sitting.

What are standing desks?

Standing desks are at a level so that you can stand comfortably while writing or working on a

computer. They may look awkward, but they allow you to stand while doing daily work. There are also variations of a standing desk that allow you to move between standing and sitting rather easily.

Thanks for reading,

Amanda

Cable Internet vs. DSL Internet

There are different types of Internet Service Providers

Internet Service Providers, or ISPs, are the organization that connects commercial or private locations to the internet. There are several different type of internet connections, but the two most popular are DSL and Cable. 

DSL Internet (Digital Subscriber Line)

DSL internet uses a modem connected to a phone line in order to transfer data. 

Advantages

• Can use phone and internet at the same time
• Faster than dial-up
• Often costs less than cable internet

Disadvantages

• Download speeds are faster than upload
• Performance is related to how far you are from provider
• Sometimes not available in lesser populated areas
• Often slower than cable internet

Major DSL Providers in Western Pennsylvania

• Verizon
• AT&T

Cable Internet

Cable internet uses a modem connected to a cable TV line in order to transfer data.

Advantages

• Performance is not related to how far you are from your provider
• Often much faster speeds than DSL internet

Disadvantages

• You share available bandwidth with others using cable internet in your area
• Often more costly than DSL internet
• Sometimes not available in lesser populated areas

Major Cable Providers in Western Pennsylvania

• Time Warner 
• Comcast
• COX

Looking for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in your area?

There are several websites that allow  you to search for internet service providers in your area by address or zip code, such as this one. 

Thanks for reading,

Amanda

Free Photo Editing Software

I am an amateur photographer, but I have done research and practiced different types of digital photography for several years. I personally have invested in Photoshop Elements, but I have used several free softwares for editing, and continue to do so when I am not on my own computer.

There are two types of free editing softwares:

1.      Web-based

2.      Download and Install

My Top 2 Web-Based Photo Editors

Pixlr

This editor is a simplified version of Photoshop, completely web-based. You can create an account and save some of your projects. This editor allows you to edit photos or create projects. Much like Photoshop, you can add layers and rearrange them to create an in depth photo editing or projects. This editor is comparable to Photoshop Elements.

Features include:

Basic Tools (toolbar: crop, rotate, lasso, selection, text, spot fix, etc.)

Other Edits (adjustments: brightness, hue and saturation, color balance, levels, etc.)

Filters (blur, sharpen, masks, vignette, kaleidoscope, etc.) 

PicMonkey (previously Picnic)

This editor is completely web-based, but you can create an account and save some projects. This editor provides for collages or single photo edits. There are some functions that are limited to a paid “Royale” account, but for basic editing it is not necessary. You need a photo to use this editor, you cannot simply create a project.

Features include:

Basic Edits (crop, colors, rotate, exposure, sharpen, etc.)

Other Edits (effects, touch up, overlays, frames, textures, etc.)

My Top 2 Download and Install Editors

Gimp

This editor needs to be downloaded and installed, which allows you to use the software without internet access after install. This software does not require you to make any accounts in order to download.

This editing software is similar to Photoshop Elements in many aspects. It allows you to create projects and edit photos. There is also the functionality of multiple layers for easing projects editing.

Features include:

Basic Tools (toolbar: crop, rotate, lasso, selection, text, spot fix, etc.)

Other Edits (brightness, hue and saturation, color balance, levels, etc.)

Filters (blur, enhance, animation, artistic, etc.)

PhotoPlus by Serif

This editor needs to be downloaded and installed, which allows you to use the software without internet access after install. This software requires you to make a Serif account and confirm via e-mail before you can download. Serif will also provide a product key. During install, you will need to restart your computer. There is also a paid version of this software, with more functionality.

This editing software is also very similar to Photoshop Elements. It allows you to create projects and edit photos, using the multiple layers as discussed before. This editor also includes a how-to guide to get you started with editing your photos.

Features include:

Basic Tools (toolbar: crop, rotate, lasso, selection, text, spot fix, etc.)

Other Edits (brightness, hue and saturation, color balance, levels, etc.)

Effects (blur, enhance, animation, artistic, etc.)

Good luck editing and creating!

Thanks for reading,

Amanda

Reasonable Computers for Kids – Holiday Season is Upon Us!

The Holiday season is just about two months away, meaning it’s time to start shopping for gifts whether they come from Santa, parents, family members, or friends.

When Purchasing, You need to Consider the Recipient

My sister just approached me about gathering some ideas for her 11 year old daughter, Addy. Addy will be getting an iPhone for Christmas, but my sister is considering getting her a laptop of some sort as she is beginning to need one for school. At her middle school, they use Chromebooks and Google Drive for classes.

Addy has desktop with Windows 7 installed, with programs like Microsoft Office and other games. Now, she is needing something more portable. She travels between her parent’s houses, and will be needing to type and research more frequently.

While my recommendations are affected by the case of my niece, they are applicable for any parents or individuals looking to purchase a laptop for a teenager or child. 

Types of Computers to Consider and their Pros and Cons

Chromebook 

Pros 

• Relatively cheap ($100-$400)
• Used in the school, familiar
• Light
• Very portable

Cons

• Limited use
• Needs internet for most functions
• Limited local storage

Windows 2-in-1 or Netbook

Pros

• May have tablet functionality
• Familiar operating system
• Completely functional
• Middle price range ($200-$1200)

Cons

• Middle price range
• Semi-durable
• May not be upgradeable
• Weight

Macbook

Pros

• Effective
• Durable
• Long lasting
• Completely Functional

Cons

• Unfamiliar operating system
• Expensive ($800+)
• Comparatively heavy depending

Recommendations

Because of the price, the Macbook or Macbook Pro is out of the question for this case.

I narrowed down the options to a Windows 2-in-1 or a Chromebook based on the cost effectiveness, as well as considering durability because this will be Addy’s first computer. When considering the first laptop for a child, you must consider durability because you do not yet know how the child or young adult will care for the device.

I also considered the ratings on various sites. The images above show the highest rated devices in each category, as well as their prices. 

Of course the final decision is up to the purchaser, in this case my sister. 

Are you buying any technology this holiday season?

Thanks for reading,

Amanda

Welcome OS X El Capitan

What is OS X El Capitan?

El Capitan is the newest software update for the Mac operating system. El Capitan released on September 30th, 2015 and comes packed with new functionality. Many of the update's features focus on multi-tasking and productivity. I want to share some of my favorite new features. 

Top 3 Favorite New Features

Split View 

Something I have loved about every Windows distribution since Windows 7 is the ability to snap windows to each side of the screen allowing you to easily view two different windows. When I purchased my Macbook towards the end of summer, I found myself struggling without this tool. 

OS X El Capitan introduced Split View which allows you to use two applications in full screen mode simultaneously as shown in the photo to the right. You can use this function by clicking and holding on the green full screen mode button in the top left of the application. When you do this, half of the screen will highlight in a nice blue color, and you can drag the application into the area. After setting your first window, you will be allowed to choose from any other windows you have open for the second window. 

The New "Notes"

The Notes application also got a well needed upgrade with OS X El Capitan. I had an iPad several months before I got a Macbook. I found it extremely odd that you could not sync your notes between devices. I do not personally have an iPhone, but I know that if I did, I would definitely appreciate this functionality. Now, all notes will sync across your devices. 

You can now also make checklists in Notes, adding more functionality to the quick note application. 

 Spotlight - Using Your Own Words

Spotlight got an update as well. This update allows you to use your own words to search your computer for files, photos, e-mails, and more. In the example I am sharing to the right, I was able to locate my recent documents despite their saved location by using "documents in the last week." 

This use of Spotlight allows you to preview documents or files and view a list of all files meeting your search terms. 

Other New Features

There are several more new features included in the update. Some of these include:

• Photos - New Editing Abilities
• Safari - Pinned Sites - similar to a favorite's bar in Chrome
• Mission Control - Windows are arranged according to your current desktop arrangement. 
• Call out your Cursor - If you lose your mouse on the screen, shaking your finger on the trackpad will grow your mouse icon.

Interested in Learning More?

• Apple El Capitan Preview
• CNET Review

Thanks for reading, 

Amanda

12 Apps for College Students

Smartphones are a Major part of Life

In this day of age, smart phones have become a major part of daily life. The majority of our friends and family are using smart phones. In my life, even my 75 year old Grandma has a smart phone. Every app (application) developed for a smart phone has a purpose - to help you, to entertain you, etc. Most college students have a smart phone, but many don't know how it could improve their college life.

I use my smart phone daily to accomplish a number of tasks. Some things I accomplish:

• Managing financials 
• Organizing my calendar, sharing events
• Creating and sharing documents
• Saving money on products I already buy
• Earning free money for surveys
• Turning multiple pictures into one PDF file
• Creating the perfect playlist
• Relaxing 

12 Apps to Improve Productivity in College

LinkedIn

If you don't already know what LinkedIn is, you should start an account today. LinkedIn is like Facebook of the professional world, except your profile is a resume. You make connections with people you know, people you meet, and possible recruiters which could help you get a job after college. The LinkedIn app is not a perfect app, but it is extremely vital for you to check your LinkedIn regularly. If you went without checking your page for a few weeks, you could miss out on a possible job opportunity. I have a friend who was contacted by Google on LinkedIn, leading to an internship and then a job.

Download for: Android | IOS

OneNote

OneNote is a Microsoft application that allows you to create notes, checklists, and more. You can create multiple "notebooks" with multiple pages. The application allows you to add in tables and charts with functions similar to Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel. OneNote requires you to sign in with a free Microsoft account. By doing so, you can access your notebooks online.

Download for: Android | IOS

Drive by Google

Drive by Google is an application view for the popular Google Drive and syncs with your Google account. However, most students don't realized the capability of the phone application. You can use Drive and other Google Apps like Docs, Sheets, etc. to create documents, spreadsheets, and more from your cell phone. The app also allows you to organize documents, as well as share documents and entire folders with your friends or classmates. You can access Drive online here.

Download for: Android | IOS

OneDrive by Microsoft 

OneDrive by Microsoft is similar to drive by Google. It gives the capability to organize documents and share your files with others. Using OneDrive, Word, Excel, and other Microsoft applications, you can create files using the productivity suite that is typically standard. Similar to OneNote, OneDrive requires you to sign in with a Microsoft account, allowing you to access all of your file online here. 

Download for: Android | IOS

Calendar by Google

Calendar by Google is a calendar that syncs with your google account. The application allows you to color code types of meetings and appointments, as well as offers several views of your schedule. You can also invite people to an event by e-mail or google account which will add it to their calendar as well. I have personally found this extremely helpful when working on group projects and scheduling meetings with small groups of people.

Download for: Android | IOS

PDF Document Scanner

There are several applications similar to this, but I have found this one to work the best for my purposes. This application allows you to take several photos and convert them to a PDF file. This is extremely useful when you are unable to use an actual scanner and you need to submit a project or file, but only have your phone. The several pictures are organized into a project where you can crop and straighten the view, before compressing them into a single PDF file. 

Download for: Android | IOS

Pandora 

Most people know that Pandora exists. Pandora is a radio station that takes one song or band and creates a station around it. Something I discovered and have been sharing with others is the ability to shuffle multiple stations. Most people have a varying taste in music, and the station shuffle allows you to create the best station for you to listen to while trying to focus so you don't have to keep changing the song or station. 

Download for: Android | IOS

2048 Puzzle (or similar games)

Games are probably found on most smart phones, but most are overplayed and then forgotten about. I think games like 2048 are important to have on your phone for when you need a few minutes of down time. Unlike a game purely for entertainment, 2048 requires you to keep thinking. I take breaks between or during assignments to play a round or two and refresh my thinking. 

Download for: Android | IOS

RetailMeNot Coupons

RetaiLMeNot is a coupon database that uses your location. Based on your location or by searching for a specific store, you can bring up in-store and on-line coupons. Most of these coupons can be scanned in-store right from your smart phone. An application like this is great because it can save you money on things you may already be buying.

Download for: Android | IOS

Ibotta

Ibotta is a couponing app, but rather than giving you coupons, it gives you rebates. You can use ibotta to create a shopping list. After watching a video, answering a question, or reading about the product, you can unlock small rebates. After purchasing the products, you verify your purchase by taking a picture of your receipt. Once your purchase has been verified, your rebate will be credited to your account. Ibotta can then deposit your rebates into a PayPal account. 

Download for: Android | IOS

Google Opinion Rewards

Google Opinion Rewards is a survey app, obviously created by Google. At this time, it is only available on Android devices. This application uses your location to match you with surveys about businesses, products, and locations. Some surveys do not reward you, but others will give you a Google Play credit valuing $0.10-$1.50. This adds up quickly if you go to shopping areas. Free google play credits means free music, apps, books, and more. 

Download for: Android

Mint by Intuit

Mint is a financial tracking app. The application can sync with your bank account (depending on the bank), credit cards, loans, and more. You can create budgets, as well as schedule bills or payments that will be coming out of your account. You can use the application to look at your financials all in one place.

Download for: Android | IOS

Thanks for reading,

Amanda