Upon the end of my second course in the Digital Learning and Leading Program at Lamar University, I have a smorgasbord of thoughts and ideas. These thoughts have a range of relief from completion of another beneficial course to self approval of the hard work and technological information I have attained. However, I can't help but think about the timing of the MANDATED shift in education due to the widespread pandemic of the COVID 19 virus.
I planned to begin this masters program with a positive outlook for my future. With all the years of education, the perspective of my work and experience, along with the completion of the courses, I believed I was setting myself up for success. There would be challenges along the way, but nothing I can't handle. And then... change happens. The world is different now. The lives we knew are temporarily put on hold. The way we communicate, teach, interact and learn are all different. It is now my responsibility to ensure that technology is a daily force in my pursuits to educate my students and continue to learn for improvement of my craft.
During this time, I have researched subjects varying from creating digital activities to promote engagement to finding meaningful ways to connect with my students and their parents in order to ensure learning does not stop. This experience has been time consuming and draining (especially while simultaneously living and caring for two small children). BUT the challenge has been a process that I have enjoyed the whole way.
I know this change may not be permanent, however, it has thus far left an indelible mark in my way of operating. I can never go back to the way I was teaching before. With the requirements that I have been directed, it has now become my choice to become a more effective digital educator. It has also led me to be more aggressive in my quest to find leadership and learning opportunities outside of the classroom. I have attended an Instructional Design webinar hosted by one of my recommended PLNs (EduWeb), looked into some of the technological tools for instructional design and even found time to connect with other teachers and leaders to collaborate for a more effective digital classroom experience.
Oddly enough, this time of social distancing has enhanced my social interactions. I look forward to this journey. If these enjoyable challenges continue, I will surely continue to learn to become the digital leader I want to be.
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