Reflecting on the last 8 weeks of learning...
I thought the way the course was delivered was excellent. The opportunity to work online from wherever you needed meant access for all. Organisationally it had been well thought through and planned for, moving between whole group to small group and targeted group sessions. Because of this set up I never felt like I had an unanswered question or didn't have the support I required - which I had though may happen through not having a 'real life' tutor. I loved that there was always a practical part to each day where we had the chance to create something that could be of further use to us, this was so beneficial to be practising the use of various tools whilst at the same time working on something that would be of value after. The supporting background information surrounding Manaiakalani and their pedagogy was interesting and supported the 'why' behind the importance of understanding and using the digital tools.
The part I found most beneficial was the PD on tools I use on a regular basis - calendar, docs, slides. Improving my use of these tools has already enhanced my everyday practise and streamlining workflow. The other sessions around building sites and the relevance of content I also found useful. Through our deep dives of looking at other peoples sites and considering how well the site functioned and the information it shared gave a great insight into what should be shared on my own site. Then the learning of how to make the site was great and I found this very useful, for now and in the future.
Today was exam today and, wohoo, I passed! Great to have so many resources to pull from that had been shared with us. I did find it interesting that when I went to Google a question, it popped up straight away, obviously it had been asked before! Colleagues had told me how difficult the exam was, which they had scenario based questions also. I feel that we got away a bit more lightly with only multichoice.
It has been a great opportunity to have the whole day for 9 weeks to focus on this learning of digital tools and how to implement this in the classroom. It is a vital part of our future and it will be something I will need to continue upskilling myself in.
Congrats Nicola on the exam certification and thank you for sharing all of your highlights across the DFI! Like you I have found this comprehensive introduction to the Manaiakalani kaupapa and the Deep Dives into digital teaching and learning to be hugely informative. Like you say, the balance between the practical and the theoretical was just right and it has been such a privilege to have that time to 'play' and explore. All the VERY BEST in your new role - you are surely going to smash it out the park. Look forward to catching up for a coffee when I am down your way next year! Nga mihi.
ReplyDeleteI also wish you luck in your new role, great to hear you will be down our way, look forward to seeing you in front of the screen! (I did think you were going to say I would see you in 'Made in Italy' ;)
DeleteI have enjoyed our 'bubble' also and it has been great sharing the journey with you all.
Kia ora Nic,
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on passing the exam! And I see your DFI badge already on your blog!
So glad you have got so much out of the DFI and the different sections that it offers.
Good luck in your new role as well next year. I'm sure our paths will cross!
Cheryl