Have you ever been faced with a situation that presents a challenge to you?? Of course you have, we face them all the time. But what do you do when you don't know what to do?? You tell yourself--"I can fly"!!!
Inside each of us dwells the knowledge and power to change our worlds. Find the motivation that you need to address the challenge; whether it's a new school, family issues, or a new job. There is a quote that says, "Only the strong survive"; I believe that is so. Instead of letting the problem that you're facing overwhelm you-- look within yourself and find the strength to tackle that mountain.
Next, find resources that can help you to meet the challenge: people, ideas, seminars, websites and more. Sometimes success depends on how willing you are or how hungry for success you are. Resources can be as simple as people that can help you or connect you to those who can. In order to "fly" you will definitely have to leave your comfort zone. Don't be afraid to try!! The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. Find a role model that you can emulate. Above all else, if you have a dream, don't let it die because you neglect it or are too afraid of the altitude.
Sometimes you might need to change your associations. Turkey and eagles don't run in the same pack. Flying requires vision. If you can see it, you can achieve it. The sky is the limit. In my church, we are taught, "I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me." Develop an "I can" attitude. When you change your attitude, you change your altitude.
Once you learn to fly, you won't be afraid to try again. You're not alone--just try and then you, too, can say "I believe I can fly, I believe I can touch the sky- spread my wings and fly away. I believe I can soar! I see me running through that open door, I CAN FLY"
Sunday, December 2, 2007
End of Part 2 Blog
Wow!! What an incredible journey it has been navigating through the streams of an Online Class. The second half of the journey has been just as unique as the first half. It has challenged, prodded, pushed, and led me to explore new worlds. I approached these new worlds with a bit of trepidation! Even as a 21st Century instructor, supposedly on the cutting edge, I was encouraged by my wonderful teacher and group member to rise to the occasion to expand my knowledge base. I couldn't have done it without you guys!! So, before I began to share, let me thank you!! Thank you from bottom of my heart!!
We started with digital portfolios. I had actually created something similar to this on my job. But what I learned caused me to go deeper into possibilities. I remember so vividly the discussions from this subject. We expressed our concerns on communicating on this new level with so much theft identity. However, we were assured by our teacher and others, that our identities were safe. The E-portfolio had many interesting websites and examples for us to emulate. This assignment was very interesting.
Next, we explored the learning theories. How do we learn? That is a good question that requires a good teacher to know how to address the different styles of learners. You can not effectively teach f2f or online if you don't understand how a student learns. These tools equip us to reach the little candle of knowledge within each student causing it to burst into a brighter flame.
We explored three approaches: Cognitivism, Behaviorism and Constructivism. We revisited the various theorists of these learning styles. Each has something to offer. My favorite is Gardner. I truly believe in the Multiple Intelligences. By the same token, I know that Vygotsky and Skinner have merit also. As I said in the discussion, the successful teacher studies her students to find out the learning style they conform to and then builds on that while encouraging the student to explore other methods. There is no right or wrong learning style.
Interestingly enough, the learning style of the instructor is critical. On my job we did a 4-Mat training for ourselves to discover our learning strengths and weakness. We then gave the same survey to students. The purpose was to know what we were facing and to build, again, upon what the students brought to the table. Of course, that's in a f2f situation. As an online instructor, you must prepare for all learning styles, without the benefit of body language helping you to understand or give you feedback. You miss out on physical feedback, but you must capitalize on what the student sends back to you.
Another assignment we had was to create a Wiki page as a group assignment. I had not ever created a blog, until this class. I most certainly hadn't create a Wiki!-:) I had seen these things in the news and on websites, but I had no clue how to "create" such a technologically involved component, capable of enhancing learning. I'm happy to say that I'm no longer a spectator, I'm a participator.
I found very quickly that all I needed to do was look at what was presented, read the instructions and expand my horizons. It was quite easy. The assignment in this second half came together just as fluidly as it did for the first group assignment. The information superhighway is full of educational websites and resources to attract the attention of any type of learner that you have.
As we're coming to a close on the second half, I can honestly say that I have been empowered with knowledge. Not just for myself, but for the children that come to me on a daily basis seeking guidance in their quest for knowledge. With the doors of opportunity opened for me, I can show them new and exciting ways to learn. And in the end, that's my goal- to impart knowledge.
We started with digital portfolios. I had actually created something similar to this on my job. But what I learned caused me to go deeper into possibilities. I remember so vividly the discussions from this subject. We expressed our concerns on communicating on this new level with so much theft identity. However, we were assured by our teacher and others, that our identities were safe. The E-portfolio had many interesting websites and examples for us to emulate. This assignment was very interesting.
Next, we explored the learning theories. How do we learn? That is a good question that requires a good teacher to know how to address the different styles of learners. You can not effectively teach f2f or online if you don't understand how a student learns. These tools equip us to reach the little candle of knowledge within each student causing it to burst into a brighter flame.
We explored three approaches: Cognitivism, Behaviorism and Constructivism. We revisited the various theorists of these learning styles. Each has something to offer. My favorite is Gardner. I truly believe in the Multiple Intelligences. By the same token, I know that Vygotsky and Skinner have merit also. As I said in the discussion, the successful teacher studies her students to find out the learning style they conform to and then builds on that while encouraging the student to explore other methods. There is no right or wrong learning style.
Interestingly enough, the learning style of the instructor is critical. On my job we did a 4-Mat training for ourselves to discover our learning strengths and weakness. We then gave the same survey to students. The purpose was to know what we were facing and to build, again, upon what the students brought to the table. Of course, that's in a f2f situation. As an online instructor, you must prepare for all learning styles, without the benefit of body language helping you to understand or give you feedback. You miss out on physical feedback, but you must capitalize on what the student sends back to you.
Another assignment we had was to create a Wiki page as a group assignment. I had not ever created a blog, until this class. I most certainly hadn't create a Wiki!-:) I had seen these things in the news and on websites, but I had no clue how to "create" such a technologically involved component, capable of enhancing learning. I'm happy to say that I'm no longer a spectator, I'm a participator.
I found very quickly that all I needed to do was look at what was presented, read the instructions and expand my horizons. It was quite easy. The assignment in this second half came together just as fluidly as it did for the first group assignment. The information superhighway is full of educational websites and resources to attract the attention of any type of learner that you have.
As we're coming to a close on the second half, I can honestly say that I have been empowered with knowledge. Not just for myself, but for the children that come to me on a daily basis seeking guidance in their quest for knowledge. With the doors of opportunity opened for me, I can show them new and exciting ways to learn. And in the end, that's my goal- to impart knowledge.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
End of blog Part I
Wow!! I'm running out of time!!
Online learning requires a LOT!! "Well, I think that I've successfully submitted my picture for the class album. yikes!!! I went through the tutorial. That was fun!!! I listened to Jan go over the instructions, which I thought was pretty neat! And yes, I created my first blog!!! Yipee!! That was a LEARNING experience, but fun!!
For week #2, I read everything I should have and submitted my thoughts on Constructivism as well, as the High Tech, High Touch topic. That was interesting. I didn't get a chance to participate in a "Live" session when scheduled at the time appointed, but I have now.
I'm running out of time, so I want to say that the journey has been incredible, frustrating, but fun.
Online learning requires a LOT!! "Well, I think that I've successfully submitted my picture for the class album. yikes!!! I went through the tutorial. That was fun!!! I listened to Jan go over the instructions, which I thought was pretty neat! And yes, I created my first blog!!! Yipee!! That was a LEARNING experience, but fun!!
For week #2, I read everything I should have and submitted my thoughts on Constructivism as well, as the High Tech, High Touch topic. That was interesting. I didn't get a chance to participate in a "Live" session when scheduled at the time appointed, but I have now.
I'm running out of time, so I want to say that the journey has been incredible, frustrating, but fun.
Self Selected Topic- Mini- Case
What shall I talk about?? Mmm-mmm-:)
I think I will address the mini-case assignment we had a few weeks ago. For that discussion we had to take a f2f class and convert it into an online course. I'm going back to that issue because I've learned so much more since that time. Here is my rationale for taking a telecourse converting it to a GREAT online experience.
I'm currently taking a telecourse. I know that this particular course could benefit from becoming an online course due to the limitations that exist. I know also that Horizon Live would be an additional asset to the class. After participating in just one session of Horizon, I'm convinced that this tool is critical to the online environment. Online teaching and Horizon together can enhance the student's learning ability in the comfort of their living room.
In the class that I'm taking which is dealing with struggles in the African American community, I feel that I'm missing something. The topics are diverse; the DVD's are great, but there's so much more that I, as a student, should be giving and getting.
For instance, if this class were online, I would have the option of bouncing my ideas, thoughts, and comments off of my fellow peers. The threaded discussion gives you the opportunity to "dig" a little deeper. Not only that, the subject area would be enhanced by the bells and whistles that you can create to share with the class.
I spoke f2f with the instructor last night and I was awed by her repertoire of knowledge on the subject. In the space of thirty minutes, she shared websites, books, grassroots individuals, and famous personalities that added substance to the class. If this class were online, she could have posted that information in web links, announcements, and such. In doing so, EVERYONE, could benefit. The class members who had left missed this vital information.
Let me go back to the initial assignment we had, that of posting a class album. What a novel idea!!! This feature alone is priceless (not to mention addresses several learning styles). We enjoyed the opportunity to "view" one another. This is the first online course that I've taken that allowed this feature. It was exciting to see everyone. It made it personal.
Last night, some students discovered that the information regarding the exam was incorrect. It hadn't been updated since last summer. Most of us hadn't ever seen the instructor; we didn't know what she looked like. The class album would have eliminated that. The "announcements" would have negated the lost time spent looking for the classroom.
Online teaching allows you, as a teacher and student, to tap into the style of learning that fits you and also causes you to stretch (if, briefly) into the challenge of other styles that you might not be comfortable with. Granted, there is a DVD in this class (for the visual learner), but it ends there. We need the "watering hole" experience. Not to mention the "cave" reflection. There is the reading for the Verbal Learner, but then what? Others are left hanging!
I think I will address the mini-case assignment we had a few weeks ago. For that discussion we had to take a f2f class and convert it into an online course. I'm going back to that issue because I've learned so much more since that time. Here is my rationale for taking a telecourse converting it to a GREAT online experience.
I'm currently taking a telecourse. I know that this particular course could benefit from becoming an online course due to the limitations that exist. I know also that Horizon Live would be an additional asset to the class. After participating in just one session of Horizon, I'm convinced that this tool is critical to the online environment. Online teaching and Horizon together can enhance the student's learning ability in the comfort of their living room.
In the class that I'm taking which is dealing with struggles in the African American community, I feel that I'm missing something. The topics are diverse; the DVD's are great, but there's so much more that I, as a student, should be giving and getting.
For instance, if this class were online, I would have the option of bouncing my ideas, thoughts, and comments off of my fellow peers. The threaded discussion gives you the opportunity to "dig" a little deeper. Not only that, the subject area would be enhanced by the bells and whistles that you can create to share with the class.
I spoke f2f with the instructor last night and I was awed by her repertoire of knowledge on the subject. In the space of thirty minutes, she shared websites, books, grassroots individuals, and famous personalities that added substance to the class. If this class were online, she could have posted that information in web links, announcements, and such. In doing so, EVERYONE, could benefit. The class members who had left missed this vital information.
Let me go back to the initial assignment we had, that of posting a class album. What a novel idea!!! This feature alone is priceless (not to mention addresses several learning styles). We enjoyed the opportunity to "view" one another. This is the first online course that I've taken that allowed this feature. It was exciting to see everyone. It made it personal.
Last night, some students discovered that the information regarding the exam was incorrect. It hadn't been updated since last summer. Most of us hadn't ever seen the instructor; we didn't know what she looked like. The class album would have eliminated that. The "announcements" would have negated the lost time spent looking for the classroom.
Online teaching allows you, as a teacher and student, to tap into the style of learning that fits you and also causes you to stretch (if, briefly) into the challenge of other styles that you might not be comfortable with. Granted, there is a DVD in this class (for the visual learner), but it ends there. We need the "watering hole" experience. Not to mention the "cave" reflection. There is the reading for the Verbal Learner, but then what? Others are left hanging!
We've been unable to contact the professor because she's been out of the country. With the components of online teaching all of the questions could have been addressed from ANYWHERE in the world. We could have simply "reached out and touched".
I won't go on and on...-:) but I know that since online teaching is "now", there are classes "now" that could benefit from taking it deeper!!
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Initial Blog
My name is VeLisa. I am currently enrolled in an online course. I totally love online learning and am using what I've learned so far in this course to enhance my job as an English teacher.
My background has been varied. I had worked in several positions until I was laid off by one of the major communications companies. I decided to invest in ME. Once I made that decision, I returned to school. I am so proud of my achievements.
As a returning adult learner, I've received a B.A. in English and I'm gainfully employed.I also feel that some of the time I spent in the classroom, an online course would have been a better option and just as vital for me. As a mother of two small children, getting my BA took a lot of time from them. I would pick my children up from day care and continue to GSU after dropping them off at two different locations. I had traditional classes from 4:30pm to 10:20pm, Monday through Friday for almost 2 years. I also took two classes at Prairie State. I had a horrendous schedule. I know that online courses would have helped to end the struggle much sooner. Did I mention I had a full time job at the time. I left work at 3pm running to feed and love my babies for a few moments and then off to get the education that would make our lives better. In the midst of this struggle I dealt with a divorce and cancer. The good news is that I made it.
This course will give me the tools to help some struggling young person to get their diploma, to make their dreams come true,. I believe online teaching and learning is a tool of empowerment.
My background has been varied. I had worked in several positions until I was laid off by one of the major communications companies. I decided to invest in ME. Once I made that decision, I returned to school. I am so proud of my achievements.
As a returning adult learner, I've received a B.A. in English and I'm gainfully employed.I also feel that some of the time I spent in the classroom, an online course would have been a better option and just as vital for me. As a mother of two small children, getting my BA took a lot of time from them. I would pick my children up from day care and continue to GSU after dropping them off at two different locations. I had traditional classes from 4:30pm to 10:20pm, Monday through Friday for almost 2 years. I also took two classes at Prairie State. I had a horrendous schedule. I know that online courses would have helped to end the struggle much sooner. Did I mention I had a full time job at the time. I left work at 3pm running to feed and love my babies for a few moments and then off to get the education that would make our lives better. In the midst of this struggle I dealt with a divorce and cancer. The good news is that I made it.
This course will give me the tools to help some struggling young person to get their diploma, to make their dreams come true,. I believe online teaching and learning is a tool of empowerment.
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