Now that we are approaching the end of the of the online orientation weeks, I feel much more comfortable with the organization and format of the program. First, I want to say that I am very impressed with how simple it has been to become familiarize myself with the online format. It is very visually appealing and enjoyable. Now that I am more familiar with with the rhythms of this program, I think the best plan for me is to log in each night after my kids go to sleep. Doing this will keep me up to date with announcements and discussions in the discussion boards. It will also allow me to do the activities in little chunks, making it much more manageable. Obviously if there's a synchronous chat, I will need to log on for that as well, but as a rule post bedtime is a great, quiet time for me to work on these activities.
As for my expectations for the program, I really have three main expectations. First, I hope to expand my horizons. One of the things that most attracted me to this program was the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded (and not so like-minded) people from different places and backgrounds. Since I have worked in the same district for the last 13 years, it's easy to believe there is only one correct way to think. Another expectation I have is to learn more about different technology tools available. I am pretty familiar with current technologies for the classroom but as we know, things are rapidly changing and this program provides me with an opportunity to expand my horizons and learn new things. Obviously, the third goal I have for this program is to learn what it takes to be a good leader in the educational setting. Like everyone, I have worked with good and not so good school leaders, and I hope to learn methods and theories regarding leadership.
Honestly, right now I don't think I need any additional support. All of the materials, activities and expectations are very easy to find/follow. The only part of the program that is a little awkward for me is not being able to put faces/ideas with names. I figure, though, that once we all meet in Denver, it will solve this problem for the most part.
So, now I'm excited to get more into the "meat" of this program.y. Can't wait to meet everyone in Denver!
