Cyber Crime Forensics: Week 1 Review

This is my week one reflection post from BIS523 Cyber Crime Forensics. The reflections post are part of my weekly requirements. Posting the reflections here will also help be more consistent in my blog output as well. 

In my prior educational experiences, we have done end-of-course reflections. Although it is another thing to get done, I have typically found them useful in thinking and development my thoughts about the class and how I learn.

In many ways the last week of the previous course and the first week of the new course feel like transition weeks. There is an attempt at organizing new materials, receiving books, a new syllabus for the new class, while tying down projects etc. from the prior learning. The goal, which often goes astray is to not end every class in a made dash to the finish line.

As for finishing up the last class, all assignments are done, and grades were just received. However, it is still a mystery to me how I got a 4 out of 30 points on a quiz. Towards the end of the class, I started the Cybrary NIST/FISMA framework module and I’m trying to get through it. Just over halfway, I found that modules are a nice overview of the topic. However, it can be time consuming by taking notes on the presentation. I expect to get it done this week.

Inside of class, I’m working on getting everything done. As always, I have resolved to “get ahead” in the early weeks especially about the research project. I’m going to set-up milestones for each week. For week one, I think it will be the following:

• Reviewing syllabus and any course materials regarding the project
• Setting-up folders (desktop, Zotero)
• Brainstorming some topic ideas based upon the syllabus and course materials
• Finish milestones for upcoming weeks

A documented plan should prevent a “mad dash to the finish line” conclusion of the course.

It is good for me to have a central text for the course, it is just a little easier to review and provides a cohesive way to look at the material and how it fits together. Having the app on my phone is also helpful to do micro studying without having to print materials off or be at a computer.