M-TEC Message Forum / Online Class Schedule / M-TEC Student Forums

Tech Class - 03/10/10

Mike DeTuri — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:10:04 GMT

Tomorrow's tech class will be on advanced word search techniques, using tools that help you find the impossible.

For class, be sure that you have Agent Ransack installed. If you don't have Agent Ransack you can still come to class, but you won't be able to follow along as we put the search techniques to work. (There's a tutorial on installing Agent Ransack on the Technology for the MT page.)

You'll also need to have a group of previously transcribed Word files (10 or more files) stored in a folder. These are the reports we'll be practicing on. These need to be DOC files, not DOCX files (from Word 2007). Agent Ransack may not be able to search inside of DOCX files.

Monday, February 22, 2010, Beat The Comma Blues by Harriet R. Stewart, CMT, AHDI-F

Harriet R. Stewart, CMT, FAAMT — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 09:55:16 GMT

Tonight's class will hopefully put to bed all the questions and problems many of you have about commas, as well as semicolons and hyphens. I decided after grading a lot of tests and assignments that there still seems to be some confusion by my students as to when to use a comma, semicolon or hyphen. Therefore this class will address the rules with examples and hopefully will help everyone in the process of this lecture.

Be sure to bring your questions for me and I will do my best to answer them. I have a lot of great books that I use for references besides the Book of Style, so it should also be interesting for you. Please join us!

Tech Class - 03/04/10 - Cancelled

Mike DeTuri — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 14:10:25 GMT

Hi everyone,

Unfortunately, I have to cancel tomorrow's tech class. I caught a cold this week and of course it went straight to my throat and trashed my voice.

I'm still able to type so I will be working and answering your emails.

Thanks!

Tech Class - 02/24/10

Mike DeTuri — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 21:01:39 GMT

In tomorrow's tech class we'll be discussing the topic of Virtual Machines and how using them can help you overcome some of the difficulties associated with using one computer. What if you could take your work/study environment with you on your keychain?

That's what we'll be discussing tomorrow. There is no assignment for this class, except to bring your questions.

I also mentioned this class in my Bits & Bytes email last week. Here's a link to that:
[url]http://www.mtecinc.com/content.aspx?id=489[/url]

Tech Class - 02/18/2010

Mike DeTuri — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 20:14:16 GMT

The Tech Class for tomorrow is all about using Instant Text (IT). If you aren't in the advanced sessions or if you don't have IT, you can still take part in class to get an idea of what an expander can do and how IT helps increase productivity.

As usual, grads are welcome and encouraged to attend. Different people like to use IT in different ways so other opinions are always appreciated.

There is no assignment for this class, just show up.

Tech Class - 02/10/2010

Mike DeTuri — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:56:35 GMT

Linux vs. Windows and the future of MT

Home users in the US are almost all working in Windows. As a result we're all aware of Window's problems. But many people aren't aware of the alternatives. We'll be discussing Linux, one alternative, in class tomorrow.

Linux is starting to catch on in the business arena. Major computer makers like Dell and HP have taken notice of Linux. (Dell has been selling Linux pre-installed on a range of desktops and laptops for a couple of years. Dell has subsequently announced that they're pleased with the results and have been expanding their lineup and support options.)

This will be a lecture class, so there won't be any tutorials.

Here is an article to read in preparation for the class.
Vista vs. Linux (This one gets a little technical. He's doing a comparison of what happened when he installed both Linux and Vista to a new computer.)

Read through this page and view the screenshots:
[url]http://www.ubuntu.com/products/whatisubuntu/910features[/url]

View this short 6 minute video to see the latest version of Ubuntu Linux in action.
[url]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYBSLf7ZhYY[/url]

Tech Class - 02/04/10

Mike DeTuri — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:49:17 GMT

Tomorrow's tech class will be on Screenshots. Your assignment for this class is to follow the animated tutorial in the Technology for the MT document and take a screenshot of your Desktop.

Come to class with any questions.

We'll also be discussing some other aspects of screenshots and the new screenshot (Snipping) tool in Windows Vista.

NOTE: This is a great tech class for new M-TEC students to attend.

Tech Class - 01/27/10

Mike DeTuri — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 19:07:20 GMT

Tech class for tomorrow is going to be about how to automate common computing tasks using batch files.

This is a complex subject so there are some prerequisites:

1. You must go through the Agent Ransack tutorial in the SLC found in the Technology for the MT document. By "go through" I don't mean just view. You'll have to do the tutorial. It shouldn't take more than 30-45 minutes.
2. Doing the tutorial means that you'll have created your notes.txt file and your Word Backup folder. We'll be using these items in class to demonstrate how batch files work.

Additionally, you'll have to set your computer to show hidden files and folders and to show extensions for known file types. To do this do the following:

1. Open My Computer, then Tools, then Folder Options...
1a. Vista/Windows 7 users: Open Computer, then Organize, then Folder and Search Options.
2. Go to the View tab.
3. Put a dot in Show hidden files and folders.
4. Remove the check from Hide extensions for known file types.
5. OK out of the screen and close My Computer.

Thanks everyone! See you tomorrow.

Tech Class - 01/21/10

Mike DeTuri — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 20:03:27 GMT

We'll be discussing Networking Part 2 tomorrow night in the tech classroom. If you missed Networking Part 1, please review those class notes before the class tomorrow.

This is a lecture class.

Tech Class - 01/13/10

Mike DeTuri — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 20:38:51 GMT

In class tomorrow we'll be talking about how Windows deals with filenames, filetypes, and wildcards. We'll also discuss search options and settings that will make finding and working with files easier.

There is no assignment for this class, just show up and join in the discussion.

Tech Class - 01/07/10

Mike DeTuri — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 14:44:09 GMT

Sorry!! I forgot that I had to cancel the last Thursday Tech Class.

Tomorrow's tech class will be Networking Part 1. No assignment. Just show up and bring networking questions.

Monday 01/04/2010 - No Class

Mike DeTuri — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 14:29:18 GMT

Hi everyone,

I just wanted to let you know that there is no class tonight, 01/04/2010. As you may have noticed from Vallie's email this morning, we're doing something a little different with the Monday Night classes this year.

Instructions for registering for the first round of special Monday Night Classes (starting next week on January 11th) were given in Vallie's Bits & Bytes email.

Let me know if there are any questions.

New Virtual Class Password

Mike DeTuri — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 19:51:45 GMT

I've updated the virtual class password to be used for the Tech Classes. (Be aware that the upcoming Monday Night Class series may use a different password.)

The new password starts with a "4" so if you still see the one that starts with a "b" you need to refresh the page.

Monday, Dec 28, 2009 The Human Body

Harriet R. Stewart, CMT, FAAMT — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 10:05:26 GMT

I recently purchased a new software program called The Human Body. It contains audio and visual presentations about anatomy and physiology. I thought I would demonstrate this software for this class. I plan to choose a number of the topics that are covered in this program, both with and without audio so that if you are interested in learning more about anatomy, this will give you an opportunity to see if this type of software program might help you to learn. It definitely has some great videos and I do hope they will come across well for the class.

As I don't know how well all of this will come across, and in the event we have any technical difficulties, I will prepare a "back up" presentation on pharmacology, just to be on the safe side! Hope you all can join us !

Tech Class - 12/23/09

Mike DeTuri — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 17:56:14 GMT

Tomorrow's tech class will focus on the different types of security software you run on your computer and how it all works together to safeguard your data and the confidential patient data you deal with.

This is more of a lecture class, rather than a tutorial class. There is no pre-class reading assignment. But feel free to bring any computer security-related questions to class.

Monday, Dec 21, 2009 Pharmacology-Anti-Infectives

Harriet R. Stewart, CMT, FAAMT — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 05:29:58 GMT

Due to the technical problems last week, I have decided to repeat the same lecture on Anti-Infectives, Antifungals, AIDS and HIV and Antiviral drugs that I tried last week, but I am also going to include Chemotherapy Drugs. Please try to attend as this will be a great lecture! I've worked out the issues with Mike about maintaining a more stable connection so as long as I have internet access, everything should go fine!

Hope to see all of you there!

Tech Class - CANCELED - 12/17/09

Mike DeTuri — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:25:16 GMT

Today's tech class is canceled.

Monday's Class 12/14/09--Technical Difficulties!

Harriet R. Stewart, CMT, FAAMT — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 21:14:19 GMT

Hello Brave Monday Night Class Souls!

I am so very sorry that class was a disaster tonight...at least my connection was--as I could not seem to hold an internet connection long enough to get through class. I have been on all day and had not one bit of trouble, but then tonight was a different story.

I am going to see if I can do a re-recording of this lecture and have it posted on the Class Notes in a couple of days. That way everyone who attended and those who didn't will benefit from it.

I will be holding class on the next 2 Monday nights so hopefully we will have better luck!

Thank you all for participating tonight! See you next week!

Monday, Dec 14, 2009 Anti-infectives, AIDS, Antifungal Drugs

Harriet R. Stewart, CMT, FAAMT — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:09:15 GMT

Tonight's class will cover the classes and actions of antibiotics, antifungals, sulfa drugs, HIV and AIDS drugs along with interesting facts about each one that will help you to identify the class of drugs and both the generic and trade names of these drugs.

Hope to see you there!

Tech Class - 12/09/09

Mike DeTuri — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:34:56 GMT

Tomorrow's tech class will be about Noticing the little things (which can make your job easier) and Word macros.

Your assignment is to go through the Word macro tutorial. You can find a link to this tutorial in the Technology for the MT document in the SLC. It's under Section III. Advanced Computer, B. Working with Software, Creating and saving macros.

The macro tutorial isn't intended to be truly useful on its own. It's just an introduction to some of the macro programming concepts we'll be using in class. :)

Here are directions on how to enable the Developer tab along with many other good tips for using macros in Word 2007:
[url]http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/word/HA100997691033.aspx[/url]

Monday Night Class 12/7/09: Word Expander Techniques

Michelle Marino CMT ADHI-F — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 18:20:24 GMT

Hello everyone,

Please join me for class on Monday, December 7 at 8 p.m. Eastern time in the webinar classroom. See the SLC for instructions on how to register for class.

The topic I'll be discussing is "Word Expander Techniques." All the samples I'll be demonstrating will be done in Microsoft Word using the AutoCorrect feature.

I hope to see you there! :)

Tech Class - 12/03/09

Mike DeTuri — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 09:44:31 GMT

Tomorrow's tech class will be on Advanced Macros. We'll be programming a Word macro from scratch, line by line.

In preparation for this class, please review the class notes from the Beginning Macros class and the Macro Questions class. You should have created/recorded at least one macro from the previous classes or the macro tutorial. If you didn't, it might be difficult to follow along and do the programming on your computer.

Word 2007 users will need to enable the Developer tab and get into the Visual Basic Editor. Here are directions on how to do that along with many other good tips for using macros in Word 2007:
[url]http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/word/HA100997691033.aspx[/url]

Time Management

Jami Fineberg CMT — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:36:36 GMT

Please join me in class tonight! We are going to talk about how do we find the time during this hectic time of year to maintain our studies! Too Much To Do, Too Little Time! See you tonight!!! Jami

Monday, November 23, 2009 Medications

Harriet R. Stewart, CMT, FAAMT — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:43:10 GMT

Tonight's class will be all about medications. Some of these you may have heard of before, others may be new to you. I will be providing you the names (both trade and generic) along with descriptions of the type of medication, its common uses, and other valuable information on each. Hope to see you there!

Tech Class - 11/19/09

Mike DeTuri — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:23:21 GMT

Tomorrow's tech class will be on Macro Questions. I'll be taking questions about programming Word macros. We'll also see how to take a hybrid approach to programming macros.

Please review the class notes from the tech class on Beginning Macros (from 2 weeks ago) to prepare for this class.

One more thing... Make sure that you get the report.doc file from the zip file download that we used for the last Beginning Macros class. We'll be using that file again tomorrow.

Monday night class 11.16.2009

Jami Fineberg CMT — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 07:19:05 GMT

Tonight's class will feature Who Wants To Be A Millionaire hosted by Jami Fineberg!!! Let's learn and have a great time doing it!! Bring your thinking caps!! Remember, the higher you go on the prize ladder, the harder the questions. No, this will not be timed.

Cannot wait to "see" you all tonight! :)

Monday Night Class - 11/9/09

vpiloian — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:43:21 GMT

Join me tonight for class at 8 p.m. Eastern. Bring your general questions about the medical transcription profession and industry. Look forward to seeing you there!

Tech Class - 11/05/09

Mike DeTuri — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:34:26 GMT

Tomorrow's tech class will be on Beginning Macros.

Before class you'll want to familiarize yourself with the mechanics of recording and editing Word macros. There's a tutorial on this in the Technology for the MT document. It's in section III. B. Creating and saving macros. Please do the steps outlined in the Word Macro tutorial before coming to class.

During class we'll be working with 2 files (log.doc and report.doc). You can download a zip file containing these from the link for this class on the Tech Class Schedule page. Please extract those 2 files to a location that you can get to easily during class (either My Documents or the Desktop will work).

If you have any questions about anything mentioned above please contact me before the class tomorrow.

If you have Word 2007, you might not be able to follow along with class tonight or go through the macro tutorial until you enable the Developer tab in the ribbon.

Here are directions on how to do that along with many other good tips for using macros in Word 2007:
[url]http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/word/HA100997691033.aspx[/url]

Monday night class - 11.2.2009

Jami Fineberg CMT — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:04:28 GMT

Please join me for tonight's class on laboratory data!! See you then!

Jami

New virtual class password

Mike DeTuri — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 20:56:10 GMT

I just changed the password to the virtual class. The new password is on the Virtual Class page in the SLC.

The new password starts with a "b" so if you're still seeing the old password that started with a "1" you need to refresh the page or clear your browser cache.

Tech Class - 10/28/09

Mike DeTuri — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:38:30 GMT

Tomorrow's tech class will be about encryption.

In preparation for the class please review the following sections in the Technology for the MT document:

Section II. - Encryption software...
Section III. C. - Disk encryption

Be sure to at least view the tutorial in the Disk Encryption section. If you are adventurous and want to install the software on your computer be sure to choose the standard volume option. You don't need to use a hidden volume. (This tutorial is a tech assignment in Session 6.)

Monday night class 10.26.2009

Jami Fineberg CMT — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 06:57:25 GMT

Hello!

Please join me for the Monday night on line class tonight. We are going to have a generalized Q and A session. Please prepare your questions ahead of time. If you would like, you may email them to me during the day today so I can have your answers ready. However, it is also fine to just bring them to class tonight!

I look forward to seeing everyone this evening!

Jami

Tech Class - 10/22/09

Mike DeTuri — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 17:55:09 GMT

Tomorrow's Tech Class will be on Evaluating MT Pay Rates.

You will need to have 10 reports available, preferably reports that you've already typed. You will also need to know the minutes and seconds of audio dictation for each of those 10 reports. You will also want to have the 10 reports combined into one document.

By the end of class you'll be able to compare job offers from different companies even if they use different methods of paying. You will be able to compare the rates between a company that pays by the minute vs. one that pays by the 65-character line vs. one that pays by the word vs. one that pays by the visual black character, etc.

Monday, October 19 class: Speech Recognition

Michelle Marino CMT ADHI-F — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:06:15 GMT

Hello everyone,

Please join me for class on Monday night (10/19) for a discussion about speech recognition. I'll explain the benefits and limitations of speech recognition and show some examples of the editing required in a speech recognized document.

For new students, see the SLC for instructions on how to access the class. Hope to see you there! :)

Tech Class - 10/14/09

Mike DeTuri — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 19:28:15 GMT

Tomorrow's class was supposed to be about Firefox and NeedleSearch, but NeedleSearch isn't compatible with the latest version of Firefox. So we'll talk about my favorite Firefox extensions instead as well as Windows 7. For those who don't know, Windows 7 is the successor to Vista and is due to be released in a week or so, on 10/22/09.

There is no assignment for this class.

Monday, October 12, 2009: Listening & Interpretation Skills

Georgia Green CMT AHDI-F — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:53:29 GMT

Highly developed listening and interpretation skills are crucial to transcribing medical dictation but are also invaluable when evaluating medical information that comes to us from other sources, in the form of continuing education presentations, news reports, and even television drama shows. Let's look at these sources and how we might evaluate them for their potential to enhance our knowledge base as medical transcriptionists.

Tech Class - 10/08/09

Mike DeTuri — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:11:49 GMT

Tomorrow's tech class will cover how to set up a small MT service from a technology standpoint.

Last time we talked about digital file transfer methods which covered the MT side of things. You'll want to know about the different file transfer methods before learning about the technology services use. So if you missed that last daytime tech class be sure to read those class notes or watch the video.

Monday, October 5, 2009: Using the Internet to Research Effectively

Angela Kelly CMT AHDI-F — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 08:33:24 GMT

Join me class tonight as we discuss the tricks of the trade -- using the internet to research effectively and accurately. Looking forward to seeing you all in class :)

Tech Class - 09/30/09

Mike DeTuri — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:06:01 GMT

Tomorrow's Tech Class will be on Desktop Shortcuts. Please review the information in the "Creating a shortcut on the Desktop" tutorial in section I. A. of the Technology for the MT page in the SLC.

Monday, September 28, 2009: Listening & Interpretation Skills

Georgia Green CMT AHDI-F — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 11:30:24 GMT

Sometimes what you hear when you listen to a dictation is not actually what the dictator is saying. Unfamiliar terminology or an unfamiliar dictating voice--especially one that is mumbling, rapid, or accented--can complicate the situation. When dealing with a difficult-to-decipher passage of dictation, working MTs rely on a combination of experience and medical knowledge but also on their professional judgment. As a student, you are just beginning to build your experience and medical knowledge, but you do have the ability to exercise sound professional judgment right now. Tonight we will explore professional judgment and how to develop good decision-making skills.