Michael

Goal

To get a job working in cybersecurity for the U.S. Government.

Bio

Michael lives with his parents in his home town of Galveston, Texas. At the age of 7 he was diagnosed with autism. Some of his interests include Civil War history and video games. He works as a part-time computer technician at a chain electronics store, and he is currently dating a woman he met at work.

Soon after enrolling in college courses, he switched to online learning because he felt more comfortable interacting with classmates virtually. He has completed his associates degree and now he is a junior studying information sciences and technology with a focus on cybersecurity analytics and operations.

Frustrations

• Long readings that are just text.
• Lack of support and a clear rubric for completing writing assignments.
• Last minute changes to course content or assignments.
• Managing the social interactions required in group work.
• People communicating with sarcasm.
• Web applications that have horizontal scrolling.

Works Best When

• Text is broken up visually with good images and icons.
• Text font and color can be customized by the user.
• Consistent course navigation and pattern of course activities.
• Appreciates step-by-step assignment instructions.
• Likes to print course content and take notes on paper.
• He can communicate by text or email rather than face-to-face.
• He can demonstrate learning using visual information.
• He can focus on an area of interest.
• Given a choice of deliverable for assignments.
• Can study in a room with controlled lighting.