I had been considering gaining my masters degree for several years. I had been looking at the Lamar University program for two years, when I discovered the M.Ed. in School Counseling. One of the reasons I had not began any program was because Lamar did not have a School Counseling program at the time. I had been weighing my options about the degree I wanted to pursue. Ultimately I decided on the M.Ed. Educational Technology Leadership. This is where my heart lies. As the first course began I was still focused on the ending the school. Although I was excited about beginning a new chapter for me, I really did not have any preconceived ideas about what the course would be like or how I would like it. As we wind down this course, I have greater understanding of how to maneuver the courseware and what to expect from future courses.
As I worked through the courseware and assignments I was excited to learn new concepts and put them into practice. Many of then new concepts will help me as I prepare for my classes, but will also be useful in the future in any new position with new responsibilities. While I knew what a blog was and what a wiki was, I had not taken advantage of them. These tools will be useful in developing lessons and communicating with students, parents, and other stakeholders. While these tools an many others are available, I worry that I will not have time necessary to fully explore all that they have to offer.
I was able to complete all requirements for the course. I have explored many new concepts and useful tools available. I was successful in preparing a plan for the internship that I will follow as I progress through the program. I am a little apprehensive about actually carrying the plan out. I am often quite shy and do not like to ask others for help. This sometimes leaves me feeling a little in the dark, because I may not understand and am afraid to ask questions. This is the only trait I see in myself as a barrier. Others see me as confident and think that I will be able to dive right in and get started. I hope they are right.
I can’t believe this is over. I was successful in preparing all coursework and assignments as required. I was usually cramming at the last minute to put the finishing touches on what ever needed to be done. Kind of like now! While its summer and I no longer have students I have to prepare for, I have been very busy working with extra curricular duties and students. In addition to that I have a house full of family members who are always needing my attention: my mother, youngest son, his girlfriend and their one-year-old son (my precious grandbaby) and a host of other family members and friends. I want to be there for everyone and my biggest downfall is not being able to say no. The first two weeks of class were busy because I was still working with students as we were in school, the third week of class I had to take a student to leadership training. We were at this training for six days. I arrived home at four pm and attended a wedding rehearsal at five pm. The following morning I participated in a mini bridal spa with my soon to be sister-in-law, followed by a wedding. To top the weekend off, I attended a family reunion the day after the wedding. Week four was less hectic, but just as I would get started working on part of the assignment, I would be called away. I actually finished my coursework from our family lake house (no internet service)! I now have an air card with prepaid service! Week five also a little less hectic, but I spent half of each day attending cheerleader practice, as they were preparing for camp, which begin early Monday morning. Whew! I am a little glad that this is over; a little sad, yes, a little nervous about the next course, you bet, but I’m ready! Bring it on.
I always thought I knew a lot about technology. Yes and NO. I do know quite a bit about the technology I use, but I realized that I am usually a little apprehensive about trying something new. It’s like going swimming in the springtime when the water is really cold. I have to ease into it, a little at a time. If I jump in to fast I get overwhelmed and have to back out quickly. But if I take my time and go slow, I become accustomed to the situation and can move a little deeper. It was that way with the blog and wiki. I have only been using them for this course, but each time I edit or update them with new information, I get a little deeper into their purposes and uses. I have learned a lot and will continue more about these tools and many other tools available. I just hope that I will have the time to dedicate to learning how to fully use them.
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