Journal Entry #2

Hi there!

So far things that are going well in the course are my group is wonderful! I feel as though we are going to do well together and be very efficient and effective as a team! Also, the readings are pretty easy and interesting thus far. Things not going so well is the scholarly paper. This goes along with my frustrations. Although I am glad that the paper is due early on in the class, since it is the biggest stress point for me, I feel as though I do not have enough time to do it very well. I asked a question about the software, whether it needs to be free or can be software that the school bought that is free for students and teachers to use, and I haven't heard back yet, so I'm not sure whether to start the assignment or not. Like I said, this is the biggest stress point for me. I HATE writing papers. :(

I do feel as though as far as group work goes, and the other assignments in class that I have accomplished a lot of organization. I will feel more accomplished when the paper is completed. :(

My life as an online learner has been difficult. It seems like now that I am teaching full time, there is always something going on every evening or weekend in my personal life with family and friends and I cannot seem to find enough time to get things done for the class as I would like to (hence me being so behind on my paper!). I'm hoping things will calm down- hopefully in time for my 2nd class to start in October.

We'll see...

Journal Entry #1

Hello Again! Welcome to my blog for the semester!

So far, I feel like the class is going well. It always takes some time to get things underway, so I feel like we're just now getting out of that period and moving on to the content. I've read the introduction and the first chapter of In Search of Understanding and so far, I'm it seems like a pretty quick and easy read. It gives good examples of the constructivist teacher and classroom, which is what I am striving for- but as the book says, it takes time.

So far, my frustrations fall once again, around the issue of time. Last semester, I was (thank God) only working part time and so was able to devote the time needed to complete my class assignments. This semester, however, I am now back in Phoenix, teaching full time and I'm already noticing difficulties finding time to get done what I need to early. Take this journal entry for example, I would have had it done earlier if I could have- I don't like waiting until the last minute. I am getting super anxious about the scholarly paper, which I haven't been able to start yet, and know it will be due soon! AHHH! I also, am excited to have this class once again with a friend of mine from my undergrad program, Nancy, and hope that I will be able to work with her on any group projects we have. We've already met up last week for dinner and to catch up and think that we'd be able to work well together online and also have the face-to-face option if desired! ;)

I feel like I'm accomplishing getting through the program. It feels great to almost be half-way done and I am excited to feel the progress! I also feel like since starting the program, I've been able to use many more tools in my classroom. Not only the textbook/online program that the school adopted for my math classes and that I'm able to use, but also I've started a class blog and have a website where students can find class work and assignments listed daily. It's been great so far!

I've already discussed a bit about my life as an online learner. With teaching full time now, I'm worried it will be stressful, but I'm working on time management and making sure to make time for all i need to do. My husband is starting his Undergrad degree right now after getting out of the military and since he has evening classes on Mondays and Wednesdays, I will be sure to use those nights for homework as well. :)

I hope you enjoyed this journal entry! More to come...