Last week I started on a year-long adventure in online learning. Since I teach full time, have three young children and live on the campus of my school as a dorm parent, it was a very attractive option. There is an assumption out there that an online program is an easier route to take, yet every colleague who has earned a degree this way insists it is much more intensive than face to face classes. The small taste of the program I’ve gotten during the two week orientation corroborates my friends’ sentiments.
I was drawn to this particular program because of the outstanding reputation of both Johns Hopkins University and the International Society for Technology in Education. I am excited to expand my understanding of school leadership and professional development. I look forward to the class on curriculum development and implementation. I expect to be challenged by my team members and to grow my Personal Learning Network. My hope is to have my Graduate Certificate in Administration and Supervision by this time next year.
It’s intimidating to be back in the “classroom” after so long (has it really been 16 years since 1995?). So far I have failed my first quiz, felt completely boring after meeting my classmates and developed a complex about people not replying to my posts. Fortunately, I recently read Carol Dweck’s Mindset, and can look at these challenges as opportunities to grow. I will need the support of my team to remain transparent in my learning. I have a feeling much pride will be swallowed throughout the year.
My plan for success entails a self-imposed, non-negotiable schedule for assignment completion. I appreciate the weekly checklists and will use them to map out my time. Going to school having experienced my profession for a while is exciting. My motivation to learn will go well beyond earning grades, since the knowledge will be practical and immediately applicable. So, here goes!
Rachael
ReplyDeleteYou are off to a great start! You seemed to have learned a lot about yourself as an online learner over the past two weeks. Online courses are flexible yet rigorous. Based on what you have said, it seems like they really fit your learning and life styles. I think you will be amazed with all that you learn. Don’t be so hard on yourself, you are working hard and learning a lot. It was a wise decision to enroll in this unique program. I think you will find this to be a beneficial program in so many ways.