Click here to view the embedded video.

I know we’re almost two weeks in and I’ve just been able to watch all of the sessions. I’ve still not completed my introduction and I’m not sure why.  There is so much information that has been shared over the last two weeks that I’m still processing much of what I’ve heard and read.  I’m trying to keep up by using some of the social media tools introduced (Diigo, Scoop.it, Reeder) but I’ve realized that I simply have to absorb what I can and let the rest go.  If it’s important, it will reappear at some point in the future.

Our first assignment was to create an introduction.  Okay, I haven’t even started.  I’m very comfortable with technology and could create a video introduction very quickly but. . .I’m scared to ‘put’ myself out in public view.  I can comfortably speak in front of a very large live audience but don’t want to tell or show people who I am.  I’m still pondering the origin of my fear but I think I may have to simply ‘dive’ in and press the publish button.  What’s the worst that can happen?

I think during our Orientation session Alec asked how we were making our learning visible. Well, mine is right here in this blog.  I’ve had a classroom blog for two years now and I’m comfortable with my small audience but I’ve only ever provided information in my blog.   My blog is also password protected.  This blog is open to the public.  I’m learning to share myself (and my possible mistakes) with the internet world.  I find this a little daunting but I’m willing to try.  I’ve told my students about my blog and my attempt to learn more through ETMOOC.  I’m hoping that if I show them that I’m willing to take a risk, they might also try something new.

Not only have I told my students about ETMOOC, I’m also making my learning visible in the classroom in other ways.  Our school district has implemented mandatory band for Grade 6/7 students. I’ve never played an instrument before and have decided, at the tender age of 43, to learn how to play the saxophone.  I’m in band class right alongside my students.  Learning is very visible and very noisy!

The most important thing I’ve learned about blogging, and this was confirmed by Sue Waters (suewaters.com) and Dean Shareski (ideasandthoughts.org), is that blogging is more for me than anyone else.  During my time at UBC in the Faculty of Education, we were required to ‘reflect’ on a daily basis.  Many teachers hate the ‘R’ word as it requires us to seriously examine our actions and intentions but that is the only way we truly begin to understand how to improve not only our teaching, but also our learning.

Let’s go.