Writing Assignment #1

Okay, before we get into the nitty gritty. you must understand that Pratt is known for being a highly technical college, with a writing program on the side. My program happens to be highly technical, so these assignments may seem mundane for some. ]

HMS 697A-10 / Thesis Writing for Facilities Management

Introductory Writing

3 short paragraphs typed

Due beginning of class, Thursday, Jan 30

In preparation for our first class meeting, please write short response (3-5 sentences) to each of these questions.  Bring your typed, printed response to our first class meeting on January 30^th.  

1. What was the most influential class you've taken during your course of study in Facilities Management at Pratt?  The most influential class that I have taken to date is has been Computer Applications I. What specifically did you learn from that course The lessons that were taught in that class was the basics of how computer applications that are specifically used for construction managers. why was it interesting to you? Because this class was geared mostly towards construction managers, it gave me insight into the types of project management is done and the computer applications that are used to facilitate communication. and what kind of project did you do for that course? Our final project was to design an outdoor patio area. We had to develop design plans, cost estimations, budgets, and a project schedule.
2. What questions do you want to attempt to answer in your Thesis project? What is inclusion, why is it important, how do facility managers use inclusion, why is it important that it be incorporated into facility management? Why are those questions interesting or important to you? Inclusion is important to me because there is a lack of transparency within the industry; in my opinion this is primarily due to agism that exists. Communication has become stifled and information has been lost between new, current, and old practitioners. One of the most obvious communication issues lays in the technology that is used by facility managers whether it be software or social media - a digital divide  
3.  Describe your thesis project to date. To date, I have read various books, journal, and papers in regards to inclusion, communication, technology trends, and agism. What work have you done for it so far (including any brainstorming, talking with faculty, identifying an adviser, and/or cursory research). I am developing a conference that is aimed at helping to breakdown the silos by designing and project managing the development of a new facility. The major component that sets this conference from the rest is that its interactive side and use of technology to complete tasks. Also, during my last thesis process, I started a blog to help process information as well as keeping my advisor in the loop. I have tried to keep the blog up-to-date. I intend on using this as a tool for out reach and development of my thesis questions. I also actively participate in LinkedIn forums and twitter conversations.