Condolence to the family of my former pathology teacher – Dr. Adelaida Dalmacio-Cruz – a favorite teacher and pathologist of mine. She died last December 29, 2020 at age 94. She lived a full life. She was a very humble, soft spoken person, very professional, and expert pathologist. I had worked with her in Manila Doctors Hospital before she retired and went to the USA (in 1994). I like her way of doing a pathological diagnosis in the surgical specimens that I submitted to her, simple and straight to the point. We always discussed our patients’ diagnosis. We conferred with each other. One thing that I cannot forget (I can still vividly remember this and which was a very delightful feedback to me during our days together in Manila Doctors Hospital) – she would repeatedly tell me: “Rey, you are a good clinician. The clinical diagnoses you put on the histopath requests always jibed with the pathological diagnoses that I made.” I learned a lot from her during my undergraduate years, when I rotated in the Department of Pathology when I was a surgical resident in the Philippine General Hospital, and when I was already a surgical consultant in Manila Doctors Hospital. Thank you , Mam Dalmacio-Cruz. Rest in peace now. You have contributed a lot already.
Inventory of computer literacy and information technology competencies that I have acquired throughout the years
Backgrounder:
I acquired a Personal Computer (PC) XT model in 1985. I started to learn word processing using a DOS-based Wordstar 4 program to create and edit documents.
From 1985 up to 1995, although I acquired newer models of PC, such as 386 in 1994, my computer experience was still confined to word processing using DOS-based Wordstar 4.
In 1988 or 1989, I learned how to make webpages. I used an free online website to host my webpages. Specifically, I started using tripod.com. [Most of my tripod.com are lost already. Some still present. Am trying to retrieve and copy them and transfer to WordPress and Google Sites.)
In 1995, I acquired an IBM Aptiva 486. I started learning word processing using a Windows-based program.
In 1997, I started learning how to surf the Internet.
In 1999, I started learning how to create webpages with the theme of Education for Health Development in the Philippines. [I used free online websites – such as Google and WordPress.]
I learned how to manipulate the computer on a hands-on, trial and error basis.
Such self-learning really consumed a lot of time. However, the satisfaction after learning something was greater than I could ever imagine.
I like to share the following experiences:
The best way to learn to use the computer and information technology gadget and applications is hands-on and frequent usage. Lecturing and reading without hands-on are futile.
Learning how to use computer and IT gadget and applications can consume a lot of time if there is no one to guide you. However, if you are patient and perseverant, you can learn through self-study.
The most efficient way to teach and learn computer and IT gadget and applications is by demonstration and return demonstration.
When learning how to use computers and IT gadgets, think of how you drive a car. Although it is ideal to know everything about the parts and system of a car (and the computer and IT gadgets), one need not go to that extent, or at least initially. One can still use the car and computer and IT gadgets to suit one’s need just by knowing the elemental things in driving a car and operating a computer and an IT gadget.
Update after 1999:
In 1999, I started learning how to create webpages with the theme of Education for Health Development in the Philippines. [Actually, I started this in 1989 with tripod.com.]
At present (2021 – 32 years after I learned to make webpages), I know a lot already. Not everything but a lot. Enough to make me communicate and do public health education easily through the Internet.
I know how to use emails and how to blog. I started with tripod.com (stopped already). I am now using WordPress.com, Google Sites, Slideshare, Scribd, YouTube, etc. Of course, I am using Facebook since June 2011. Will continue to learn and refine.
In 2020, with some driving force from the COVID19 pandemic, in which physical and social distancing is encouraged, if not forced, I have learned to use various apps for teleconferencing, telemeeting, and telemedical consultations. In particular, I have learned how to use Zoom in 2020.
I usually use a laptop at home (though I still have a desktop in my clinic and of course, I have a smartphone) for my information technology needs.
So, for the inventory of competencies –
I KNOW HOW TO:
open and close a laptop, a desktop and a smartphone.
do voice calls and texting in my smartphone; search the Internet, use Facebook, Viber, voice recording, camera (still and videos), etc. using my smartphone (Note: I use mostly my laptop.)
(with my laptop) do word processing using MS Word.
do Powerpoint with or without embedded audio, video and converting into MP4 video
do editing of digital pictures.
do emails.
create websites (Google Sites and WordPress.com).
use Facebook – Profiles, Groups, and Pages.
create YouTube videos.
use the Slideshare (now under Scribd).
use Google Form to make survey and test questions.
use Google photos and drive.
use Google Hang-outs.
use Zoom for teleconferencing and telemedical consultation.
use video editing (basic).
use Excel (basic)
others
I believe at the moment, I have the basic computer literacy and information technology competencies to enable make me communicate, do public health education, and do my Education for Health Development in the Philippines program easily through the Internet. I know there are more competencies to acquire like extensive video editing procedures, other functions in MS Word and Powerpoint; VLC Media, and others that I have to learn. I will keep on learning.
Let me repeat what I believe in:
The best way to learn to use the computer and information technology gadget and applications is hands-on and frequent usage. Lecturing and reading without hands-on are futile.
Learning how to use computer and IT gadget and applications can consume a lot of time if there is no one to guide you. However, if you are patient and perseverant, you can learn through self-study.
The most efficient way to teach and learn computer and IT gadget and applications is by demonstration and return demonstration.
When learning how to use computers and IT gadgets, think of how you drive a car. Although it is ideal to know everything about the parts and system of a car (and the computer and IT gadgets), one need not go to that extent, or at least initially. One can still use the car and computer and IT gadgets to suit one’s need just by knowing the elemental things in driving a car and operating a computer and an IT gadget.
My Resolutions in 2021 and beyond:
I will keep on using information technology for communication and online education and socialization for the rest of my life.
I will keep on exploring new things in information technology to adapt to new changes and development.
Even before the advent of the COVID19 pandemic, computer literacy and information technology competency are highly recommended to adapt to changes in the world, which is now in the digital age.
The advent of COVID19 pandemic has pushed computer literacy and information technology competency to a higher level of necessity primarily because of physical and social distancing in preventing the spread of COVID19. Thus, to stay home and to continue to work and to function, people are forced to do telemeeting, teleconference, telemedical consultation, tele-education or online education. etc. To prevent COVID19 transmission through fomites, people are forced to use digital communication and transaction (no paper money – digital money).
The COVID19 has created a new normal in which computer literacy and information technology competency are strongly recommended, if not required, for all people, including the seniors. The competency will facilitate a lot of things in living life. The competency will be of personal, occupational and society benefits.
What is computer literacy and what is information technology competency? Loosely, they can mean the same but there may be difference.
There are so many definitions and concepts of computer literacy. Here are just 3 of them.
Definition 1:
Computer Literacy – the basic, nontechnical knowledge about computers and how to use them; familiarity and experience with computers, software and computer systems.
Computer Literacy – level of familiarity with the basic hardware and software (and now Internet) concepts that allows one to use personal computers for data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and electronic communications.
Computer literacy – the ability to use computers and related technology efficiently, with a range of skills covering levels from elementary use to programming and advanced problem solving.[*] Computer literacy can also refer to the comfort level someone has with using computer programs and other applications that are associated with computers. Another valuable component is understanding how computers work and operate. Computer literacy may be distinguished from computer programming which is design and coding of computer programs rather than familiarity and skill in their use.
*Computerized Manufacturing Automation: Employment, Education and the Workplace, Washington, US Congress of Technology Assessment, OTA CIT-235 April 1984, page 234
IT or Information technology refers to the electronic technology that deals with data and information creation, collection, collation, analysis, sharing, archiving and retrieval. The electronic technology usually consists of a hardware gadget and a software program.
The more popular term that is being used nowadays is information technology competency rather than computer literacy competency as the information technology is more encompassing (not just computers) in terms of the gadgets being used which are so varied.
To adapt to the changes brought about by the digital age, all people have to acquire some basic competencies in information technology that suit the daily demands in living life, the demands of their occupation and the demands of society inclusive of the government. It is not easy initially but it can be learned.
When trying to acquire information technology competency, think of how you drive a car. Although it is ideal to know everything about the parts and system of a car (and the information technology or gadget), one need not go to that extent, or at least initially. One can still use the car and gadget to suit one’s need just by knowing the elemental things in driving a car and operating a gadget.
As you keep on using the informational technology gadget, you learn something new each day and each time. Eventually, you will feel at ease in using it.
You are free to ask somebody in the know to teach you. Or, manipulate the computer or information technology using self-study and on a hands-on and trial and error basis. Or both. Personally, on my part, I learned mostly using self-study and hands-on and trial and error basis – tedious but learning is longer lasting.
Let me just say something about technology for seniors.
How technology can help the seniors
Evidence shows that increased technology use among older individuals leads to a number of health benefits including higher well-being and lower rates of depression.
There are a number of benefits for seniors who use technology, one of the most obvious benefits that these tools provide is communication. Through things like Facebook and other social media tools, seniors can get in touch easier with friends and loved ones. Moreover, through the use of technology, and communication, seniors can see decreases in loneliness and, in turn, experience better mental and physical health. Greater technology use studied and found to be associated with better self-rated health, fewer chronic conditions, high well-being, and lower depression.
What more for the non-seniors? More benefits for the non-seniors!
COME ON BOARD!!! EVERYBODY!!! Get the needed information technology competency you can use for your personal, occupational and society benefits.
Here are my personal resolutions:
I will keep on using information technology for communication and online education and socialization for the rest of my life.
I will keep on exploring new things in information technology to adapt to new changes and development.
Today is supposed to be first day of the year 2021- New Year Day. It is a holiday. It is a special day.
But what happened?
I was awaken by my alarm clock of 700am; 730am; and 800am. The usual every morning. I got out of my bed at 730am – went to bathroom – weighed myself (71.6kg) – dressed up – went out of my house for my 3-km morning walk with rosary recitation and listening to My Way on the homestretch of my walk.
I saw walking also my usual “companions” in doing the morning walk – 3 individuals and 1 couple. For them, I felt they felt the same as I am – whether holiday or not, we have to do our daily healthy lifestyle routine.
So, what is in a day?
I wrote an article on this. Will locate. Here it is – Wrote this on November 02, 2020
Although I take note that a day in my life is just like any day with phases of morning, afternoon and evening and with an identifying mark on what day it is in the calendar;
Although I take note that a day in my life could a holiday in the community;
Although I take note that a day in my life could be a special day for me like my birthday, birthday of my family members, wedding anniversary, recognition day; special project day, etc.;
In the end, for me, the day or today is a day in which I have to accomplish my Intentional Living Plan for the day wherein I have routinary activities as well as tasks and projects in the my “things to do list” to accomplish so that I can achieve the goals of my Intentional Living Plan. I put emphasis on “life in a day” whatever that day is.
This stance and attitude towards a day or today contribute to my producing a meaningful, productive, contented and happy life for myself.
I intend to maintain and sustain this stance and attitude throughout the rest of life.
January 4, 2021 – first Monday of the Year 2021 – supposed to be the first “working day” for 2021.
My TPORs (Thoughts, Perceptions, Opinions, and Recommendations):
Every day is a “working day” for me regardless of the day (see my post on What’s in a Day Anyway? —- What’s in a day anyway?)
I subscribe to the Japanese concept of “Ikigai” for me to say that every day is a “working day.”
Ikigai is the Japanese secret to a long and happy life. A person practicing Ikigai finds reasons to get out of bed every morning, something that makes him happy, something he likes, something he is good at, something he can be paid for, something the world needs, a fulfilling life.
I subscribe to the Intentional Living for me to say that every day is a “working day.” For a person like me with a long-term Intentional Living Plan to implement and keep track of implementation results, today is a day with an Intentional Living Plan for today – I have routinary activities to accomplish and I have tasks and projects in my “things to do list” to accomplish today.
Every day is a “working day” for me but I don’t have to go out the house especially in this time of COVID19 pandemic to practice my medical profession to earn. I don’t have to go to the hospitals that I am connected with (Philippine General Hospital and Manila Doctors Hospital) to do my “working day.”
I CAN CHOOSE AND HAVE CHOSEN TO STAY HOME AND DO MY WORKING DAY.
IN TERMS OF MY PRACTICE OF MEDICAL PROFESSION, I HAVE DECIDED UNTIL THE COVID19 CRISIS SUBSIDE TO STAY HOME AND DO THE FOLLOWING:
ROJOSON TELEMEDICAL CONSULTATION
ONLINE BLOGGING ON EDUCATION FOR HEALTH DEVELOPMENT IN THE PHILIPPINES
Thus, every day is a “working day” for me regardless of the day.
21jan3 – Dr. Melvin Sanicas – demonstrating Intentional Living concepts, tactical actions and accomplishments
Some important quotes:
Ikigai is the Japanese secret to a long and happy life. He found his reasons to get out of bed every morning, something that makes him happy, something he likes, something he is good at, something he can be paid for, something the world needs, a fulfilling life.
‘I know that in my own little way I am making the world a little better. I don’t have to “change the world” to feel good, I just need to do little positive things that hopefully inspires people to do small positive things too.” – Melvin
“First, know yourself really, and know what you want in life. Then find your own IKIGAI. Then to be successful, always remember these Filipino qualities: hardworking, empathetic, humble, curious and open to fellowship and collaboration. Finally, do not compare yourself to others, focus on you.”
October 2020 – Digital Pen from my daughter Therese – to be used in signing and drawing for my telemedical consultation.
Slice of appreciation pleasure – daughter’s love and improvement of my tasks during teleconferences
Earlier in 2020, I received other gifts from my daughter to be used in my telemedical conferences such as a ring light and camera stand and vertical mouse.
had used a total of 3 masks from March 17 to December 31, 2020.
I am retiring this cloth mask after using it from June to December 31, 2020 – when I did my outdoor walking exercise.
It had served me well – no COVID19 infection (of course together with physical distancing from people in the streets in my neighborhood, minimize talking to people in the streets and hand-washing as needed).
No matter how you write the date today, it should be clear and follow international standards.
Anyway, it is the first day of the year 2021.
Looking forward to another exciting year in my Intentional Life Plan as in the past and as I journey to 2024 (75 years old) with stretch to 2032 (my wife will be 70 by this year).
After I posted this, I received a PM from EMER – which jibe with my concept of a first day of the year —– “first day of a BRAND NEW YEAR – first day of a GREAT BEGINNING.”
21jan1
What’s in a day?
Today is supposed to be first day of the year 2021- New Year Day. It is a holiday. It is a special day.
But what happened?
I was awaken by my alarm clock of 700am; 730am; and 800am. The usual every morning. I got out of my bed at 730am – went to bathroom – weighed myself (71.6kg) – dressed up – went out of my house for my 3-km morning walk with rosary recitation and listening to My Way on the homestretch of my walk.
I saw walking also my usual “companions” in doing the morning walk – 3 individuals and 1 couple. For them, I felt they felt the same as I am – whether holiday or not, we have to do our daily healthy lifestyle routine.
So, what is in a day?
I wrote an article on this. Will locate. Here it is – Wrote this on November 02, 2020
Although I take note that a day in my life is just like any day with phases of morning, afternoon and evening and with an identifying mark on what day it is in the calendar;
Although I take note that a day in my life could a holiday in the community;
Although I take note that a day in my life could be a special day for me like my birthday, birthday of my family members, wedding anniversary, recognition day; special project day, etc.;
In the end, for me, the day or today is a day in which I have to accomplish my Intentional Living Plan for the day wherein I have routinary activities as well as tasks and projects in the my “things to do list” to accomplish so that I can achieve the goals of my Intentional Living Plan. I put emphasis on “life in a day” whatever that day is.
This stance and attitude towards a day or today contribute to my producing a meaningful, productive, contented and happy life for myself.
I intend to maintain and sustain this stance and attitude throughout the rest of life.
I was alarmed by this alert as I have not opened this particular Google account for a long time. But I was happy to receive this alert from Google. It protects my account. I have a lot of websites with a lot of writings which I want protected and preserved for at least another 25 years before I die and after I die (2020 – 2032 – 2045 at least)
