Discussions

In this discussion post, I introduced myself and explained why the field of Information Sciences and Technology (IST) interests me. Writing this helped me think more deeply about how IST blends technology with communication, teamwork, and problem-solving in real organizational settings. It also made me realize how broad the field is and how adaptable IST professionals need to be when working with diverse teams on real-world issues. Overall, this discussion allowed me to reflect on my academic goals and why I’m drawn to the intersection of technology and collaboration.

One topic I explored this semester was the difference between predictive and prescriptive analytics, which initially felt unclear to me. I started to see how predictive analytics focuses on forecasting future outcomes using past patterns, while prescriptive analytics uses those predictions to recommend specific actions. Breaking the two apart helped me understand why businesses rely on both methods when planning strategies and making decisions. This reflection also showed me the value of asking questions when something feels confusing, because working through it helped make the concepts much easier to grasp.

While writing about computer hardware, I got a clearer understanding of how each component plays a specific role in making a system function smoothly. Learning about the CPU, RAM, storage devices, and input/output hardware helped me see how these pieces connect and depend on one another to run programs efficiently. I also gained a better appreciation for how far hardware has evolved—from massive early machines to today’s compact, powerful devices packed with billions of transistors. This discussion showed how advanced storage, processing, and design have shaped the technology we now use every day, from smartphones to cloud systems.

For this activity, I wrote a playful letter to YouTube Music, which made me recognize how much I rely on it throughout my daily routine. Thinking through my relationship with the app helped me see how technology can shape mood, motivation, and productivity in ways we don’t always notice. It also made me reflect on how personalized recommendations and offline access have become small but meaningful parts of my everyday life. Overall, this assignment helped me appreciate how even simple apps can influence how we study, relax, and stay focused.

In this assignment, I learned how powerful automation can be for improving everyday business tasks. Breaking down the example of generating invoices showed me how macros save time, reduce mistakes, and keep workflows consistent across a company. It also helped me understand how tools like VBA give users the ability to customize spreadsheets for specific needs, which makes Excel much more than a simple data program. Overall, this discussion reminded me how important automation is in improving efficiency and accuracy in professional environments.

This discussion helped me understand how the two concepts connect but serve very different purposes. The internet acts as the global infrastructure that moves data around the world, while the Web builds on top of it to create the user-friendly experience we rely on every day. Looking back at their history also showed me how quickly technology evolved—from ARPANET to modern online communication—and how these developments changed the way we learn, work, and interact. This discussion also made me more aware of the digital divide and how unequal access to technology affects opportunities for many people around the world.