When is School out for Summer?

 

For this week, I am asked to reflect upon  the information reviewed, any problems or issues with Diigo or any applications/software encountered. 

I have to say, I am a little overwhelmed.  The new technology and this whole WIDE world of knowledge and authors.  How do you even know where to begin?

One little step at a time.  My lovely mentor has gently prodded and stimulated my spirit into taking some time to master the art of creating a customized blog, insert my RSS feeds and generally pull my head out of the ground!

In the text, Teaching Online: A Practice Guide, written by Susan Ko and Steve Rossen, I have found some solace and motivation.  After spending six years in higher education beginning in a hybrid environment and moving to 100% online, I objected to being tied digitally to the world and physically to my computer.  But, with the world and technology adapting and evolving in a digital nanosecond, I was finding myself left behind and woefully lacking awareness of the trends.  These authors have put into text several key ideas that I identify and agree with.

1. “School is always in session because school is always there” (p. 5).
2. The desire to “transmit and receive information efficiently and to communicate with others no matter the means” (p.5) has opened many doors to technology (smart phones and tablets) and avenues of social media (Facebook, YouTube, MySpace) that anyone can access and use.
3. However, if school is always there 24/7, like Ko and Rossen say “When is school out?”  What exactly is my role as an educator in such an environment?  When do I get to say “Time Out! I’m not available!?”

These top three statements have framed the context in how I will design my courses for the future.  My goal is to have a hybrid course that can stimulate creativity, advance technological skills for all of my students, and foster joy in the process of learning and expression.

As I work my way through the POT syllabus, there are many areas that have me anticipating the assignments.  Be sure to check back for the next installment!

Have a lovely day!

My Maiden Post!

I’m on my quest to become a professional educator in an online environment, but I’ve found that my brain and interests are severely scattered to the four winds!  I desire to condense my wander lust to one central location and expand upon my many facets. 

What is my goal?

My goal is to document my life, my interests, and perhaps entertain and educate any that decide to follow me.  Which, by the way, I’d be very flattered to be included in your personal learning network/community/web, etc.

What topics am I most interested?

I enjoy travelling, creative writing, health and fitness, and music.  I tend to stray more towards the arts and avoid politics for the most part.  However, I will get a little fired up in regards to military and educational isssues.

What is my perspective?

I am an educator, art lover, animal lover, and fitness advocate.

Who is my target audience?

In writing, the experts always suggest knowing which readers will be interested and to write towards that bent.  It’s difficult to pinpoint because I believe everyone is interested in quite a few ideas/objects/things.  This is one of the areas that I will be developing, adapting, and morphing as I find my “voice.”

In closing, I want to thank you for your time and look forward to any comments and suggestions!

Have a great day!