After the happy mood regarding last weeks lab, I found myself again frustrated this week. The biggest problem that occurred this week (in class) was related to downloading the various programs that we need. It took almost the entire class period to just figure out how to properly download the programs necessary for this weeks assignments, and my lab group didn't get a chance to get anything, requiring a meeting outside of class. The frustrating part about it, is that it's not anything that we are doing wrong, but is some funny computer glitch or preference that I simply don't yet know about. When other students are making progress on their programs and we are waiting for someone else to help us figure out the problem, I get reasonably frustrated.
I think this week went really fast as well. While I have used SQLite before (in SI 502), we only used to Browser, and used the execute function there to add/delete/interact with the database. I felt like the description of the use of Python and SQLite in class went by really fast, and assumed a lot of background knowledge that I simply don't have. Furthermore, while both the lecture and the book gave enough basic background knowledge, it didn't give enough knowledge to actually complete the lab assignment. Because we didn't have time to start the lab in class, due to the downloads, we weren't able to ask questions when they arose. I know that you suggest consulting Google, but I didn't even know where to start in my search. We also didn't know how to ask for help (via e-mail or in person), as we were so lost that we couldn't figure where to begin.
I apologize for an entire post of complaining, but I am very frustrated this week. Overall, I found this week incredibly frustrating, and that was before even beginning the Homework Assignment.
Sorry for the frustration in class. I try and do my best to get around to all the groups to help resolve these issues, because I do not expect people in the class to be Python experts. My hope (and this is not always true) is that with a group atmosphere. Someone can get the necessary files installed and you can continue on with the lab. Addressing personal computer issues later. I will be posting the necessary programs/files today for next weeks class, so hopefully this will help remedy issues a little quicker.
ReplyDeleteIf you have questions, please let me know.
Have a good day,
Patrick Dudas