October 15, 2010

Back at the Books

Some might ask, "What, again?" You bet! After 20-some years working in the field of technology I felt led this past year to focus less on debates over technology and become more in tune with the lives of students in schools here and overseas. Undoubtedly, I will continue to be involved in technology in some way regardless of my official job title, but the Masters of Education degree I am now working on will provide the needed insights into many areas of the educational environment and the tools to counsel students when personal and career-related issues come up.

It's been awhile since I was on this side of education.  As one who has instructed students, inside and outside of the classroom, it's easy to forget exactly what it's like to be one.  Well, the mystery is solved because I just completed my first set of online courses toward a Masters of Education with School Counseling focus and it was no easy task.

Between all the weekly readings and assignments due every Sunday midnight, life was spoken for this last eight weeks.  Don't get me wrong -- I enjoyed just about every moment of this opportunity to learn, I just had to relearn how to say, "I'm sorry I can't get together because I have to study."


The look of education sure has changed since I was a student last, for it is now possible to take courses completely online via the Internet.  From participating in discussions with fellow students to completing assignments to taking tests, it can now be done on the computer without having to say a word to anyone in my class.  Admittedly, the first couple weeks were difficult because I had to get my student-legs working again, but now that I'm in a rhythm things are going swimmingly. In fact, I survived my first round of 8-week courses and am gearing up for the next round which will be done before Christmas.

Even though it may require more time-management and administrative skills to do studies online, this arrangement allows me to stay in my preferred study environment.  Right now, this means I can live at the cottage while doing these courses, avoiding the costs of room & board on campus in Virginia.  Then in the coming years, when I look forward to being employed at an international school again, this online forum will allow me opportunity to pursue professional development courses while working... provided the country where I'm living has hi-speed.





One reason I'm glad I can study here is to enjoy life outside the city again.  Even though I've been hermit-like at times while studying, I've been able to venture outdoors on occasion to do the cottagey-type things one would expect: collect and split wood for the fireplace, rake leaves, go for walks through the countryside and simply enjoy the fresh air.  Granted, I know I wouldn't want to be here long term but I am so grateful to be able to take a break and do this now.

Since I would like to be in the international school scene as long as the good Lord allows, I am glad for this learning opportunity.  My resume has a lot of study & work experience in technology and business, so these courses will provide good insight into Education and the Counseling professions.  I am thrilled to learn what can be used in schools, whether in the classroom, counseling office or continuing to work with teachers integrating technology in their curriculum.  Whatever job awaits me in whatever country, I look forward to having some formal EE (Education education) behind me.