In 2010, while I was a
graduate student working as a graduate assistant I completed the first 3
courses toward earning my Online Teaching Certificate. Since that time I have
been trying to find the perfect moment to finish the final course. My schedule teaching psychology at Governors State University and Moraine
Valley Community College did not allot much time for me to continue my studies.
I have learned
many things the last 4 years. One thing I learned was there is not a perfect time to take this class. So
instead I registered at a time that is not ideal. Maybe some of my classmates can relate? It is not a lack of desire to learn,
but a constant juggling of work and family that stood in my way.
I have been asked reflect
on my expectations and aspirations regarding this course. To be
honest one part of me just wants to get it completed. But a less harried
and stressed part of me is looking forward to honing my online design skills. I
have been teaching online at GSU and in the traditional classroom at MVCC since
2010.
So I asked myself what
tools do I possess, and what do I hope to gain from this course?
After self analysis and self evaluating my online course designs, I came to some conclusions. I strive to be proficient in
student-student and student-to-instructor interactions. And I look forward to
learning more ways to provide such interactions. I have experience in creating
assignments and tests which assess student learning and evaluate student
content comprehension. I believe completing this course will help me improve in
both areas.
In concordance with
standard teaching practice I provide an online syllabus and orientation. However, I am looking forward to
providing my students an interactive version using the learning module.
When self-evaluating the
courses I have designed, I feel my students will benefit from a more organized
format with intuitive navigation. I would like to update my courses in a way that stresses
consideration of the student experience to a higher level.
Looking at my course
designs and creating modules from a designer and instructors perspective
intrigues me. I assume I will be able to take some of my skills and apply
them toward succeeding in this course. But my expectation from this
course is that I improve my design abilities. My aspiration is to take what I
learn in this course and apply it toward creating more stimulating courses.
I asked myself what is the most important skill I want to gain from completing the producing digital content course?
My answer is that I want to make my courses easier for students to navigate so they can
concentrate on learning.
