Online learning is a wild ride, but who wants a boring life? The changing technology and tools, communicating with people around the world, and freedom from the confinement of location opens up the potential and excitement of online learning experiences. This portfolio contains the artifacts and inspirations of my journey
in UW-Stout's eLea
rning for Educators graduate certificate.
My Philosophy
Engaged. Meaningful. Examination. Growth. Development. Improvement. Transformation. Inspiring - Words that come to mind when I think of learning. To take a concept, spin it around, look at it in a different light, from someone else’s perspective, figure out how it can be used, to try something new or in a different way, that’s learning. People are hard wired to learn – when the content is interesting or there’s a problem to solve.
Teaching is a different type of learning. Teachers learn from students. Students learn from each other. Teachers learn from each other. A teacher builds an environment where students can engage in meaningful examination of interests and problems to develop, improve, transform, grow, and become inspired. A teacher guides students to an understanding of why this is important content to spend time learning about. How will they and society be better off because this content is now a part of who they are? A teacher coaches students in their use of the content, to enhance the skill and expand the application.
The Online environment provides a rich and robust environment for self-motivated and disciplined learners. Learners can review content they are familiar with and focus on the new. They can ponder questions without the pressure of minutes ticking by or classmates’ eyes. Teachers build an engaging and meaningful experience ahead of time, freeing their time during the course to focus on guiding and coaching learners’ understanding and performance. | 