Gosh! And just like that, 10 weeks just flew by! If you had told me at the beginning of the journey what I may glean from this course, I wouldn't have believed you!
Below are a few reflection items that have stood out for me:
Research and engagement: At the start, when I realised how much reading and engagement was required, I had a moment of panic that I may have signed up for something to which I may not be able to fully apply myself, and I really do not enjoy half-doing something! In the first few weeks, it was a real push to get to all of the readings, videos, and podcasts, but as the weeks rolled on, I began to look forward to the new topics. The readings (and artefact development) became a welcome distraction to marking! I often found myself taking marking breaks and getting stuck into playing around with more artefact development!
Group 4: All of this was made so much more enjoyable by our amazing group. We built such a great bond, knowing that each member would really throw themselves in to learn new skills and play around with the tools, and ultimately our enthusiasm would create really striking artefacts. We all supported each other, and it was incredible to see how selflessly the members shared their skills and assisted each other. We have built solid friendships, and I will certainly be reaching out to Annie for her amazing techy and design skills, to Bradley to collaborate on digital literacy skills in the DIAL module next year, as well as Portia for her extensive programme manager experience.
Topics: I really enjoyed the topics presented in the course, and I found it to be well thought out and well structured. Each topic built on the previous one, and the artefacts enabled us to see the practical application of the research. I particularly enjoyed Topic 2 (Digital Citizenship) - I am familiar with the concept, having researched extensively for my Masters thesis, however, there was some research presented in this topic which really resonated with me. David White's notions of digital visitors and citizens really struck a chord with me, and made me think differently to the previously accepted notions of what makes up a digital native. I also enjoyed Topic 4, which resulted in a culmination of all other topics, to create a final artefact. I particularly enjoyed the practicality of the course - there really was a good mixture of research to application of this research, with interesting discussion as to how the theory informs the practicality.
Celebrating Learning: I really enjoyed how learning was celebrated in this course. It was highlighted early on that making 'mistakes' are really just rungs of the ladder to learning, and that they challenge you to keep pushing and learning. A really safe space was created by Sonja our group leader, where we were able to be vulnerable and share our concerns, fears and learning. Our group was also extremely supportive, and it quickly became clear that there was a really supportive environment in which to wrestle with new concepts and tools. At first, it was stressful to 'release' our artefact 'baby' out into the IOL community, but it quickly became exciting to hear the feedback from other groups, and to see how other groups represented their own learning in their artefacts. I also loved reading other blogs, and learning about others' fears, vulnerabilities, learnings and discoveries. I could resonate with many of them, which makes one feel as if one's experiences and concerns are not unique!
Experimenting with New Tools: I really enjoyed that we got such great opportunities to play around with really great tools! My guilty pleasure is finding new techy tools, and I have utilised many tools I have found over the years in my teaching as a high school teacher, as well as in my lecturing and digital literacy courses. I have worked with a few of them before, but it was wonderful to have the opportunity to engage with our group members to explore further, to see others' interpretation of the task, and how they go about boldly experimenting and designing their share of the artefact. This was quite inspiring, and encouraged me to do the same. I loved thinking how I could incorporate them into my lecturing, and I have already thought about to trial them with my classes for next year!
A Huge Thank You: A massive thank you must you to the IOL organisers and Ed Tech team leaders! You created a really special community of learning, and the external presenters, structure of the course, and discussions really facilitated a deep understanding of the topics. I can imagine a lot of time, energy and effort went into the design and running of the course. Our Group 4 were really fortunate to have been allocated Sonja as our group leader, and her support, guidance, wisdom and energy were such an integral part of our willingness to learn, share, make mistakes and celebrate our efforts. Thank you, Sonja! I think I speak for our whole group when I say we all look forward to the new courses in the new year!
And that's that! This course was such a fun way to glide into the final segment of the year, and it has left me inspired for next year!
Here's wishing everyone a blessed festive season, and happy, safe holidays where everyone can get to rest, relax and recharge!
Bring on the holidays!