Learning is a lifelong process, and it takes various forms at different stages of our lives. The learning path is often filled with twists and turns, and for me, it took a particularly unique trajectory. After spending nearly 15 years in a successful career in human resources, we decided as a family to make a bold move and relocate to Canada in 2018. This transition marked the end of one chapter in my life and the beginning of another as my family launched into the world of entrepreneurship. The settlement process was demanding, especially as a mother of two while supporting my husband in our family business. Despite the challenges, my biggest dream of becoming an instructor in a large lecture hall remained steadfast. PIDP presented an opportunity to take a significant step in that direction.
The PIDP 3320 course has been a remarkable learning experience for me. I started this course with a mixture of excitement and anxiety with many questions: "Can I do this?" and "Am I ready for this?" It was challenging at first. To embrace this challenge, I adopted the mindset that sometimes, the best way to learn is to jump into the deep end with courage.
The PIDP 3320 course has also been a transformative learning experience. It has given me opportunities to delve into new areas of knowledge, many of which were entirely foreign to me. What sets this course apart is that much of my learning has occurred through practical, hands-on experiences, which I appreciate as an invaluable educational approach.
In the PIDP 3320 course, I did so with determination and courage, knowing that learning often involves stepping out of one's comfort zone. The course itself has been nothing short of transformative. It pushed me to explore new territories of knowledge, many unfamiliar to me. What distinguishes this course is its emphasis on practical, hands-on learning. Rather than passively absorbing information, I was actively engaged in applying my newfound knowledge.
The course's initial activities involved creating introduction videos and collaborating with peers. These seemingly simple tasks were, in fact, profound in their impact. They not only equipped us with new skills but also allowed us to build connections with our fellow learners. It was through these collaborative experiences that I realized the power of shared knowledge and collective expertise.
As we delved into synchronous collaboration, exciting possibilities opened up. We were tasked with selecting engaging topics, delivering them effectively, mastering the BOPPPS technique, and ensuring active participation from our peers. This experience also marked my first foray into live moderation using Zoom, a platform I had never used for teaching. The learning curve was steep, and the challenges were numerous. However, it was an invaluable trial by fire, offering a glimpse of what it would be like to design and deliver online courses in the future.
In addition to synchronous collaboration, I had the opportunity to engage in asynchronous collaboration, which involved creating a mini-training video. Every step of this process filled me with immense pleasure and satisfaction. It was a valuable moment when I felt that I was exactly where I was meant to be – creating and sharing knowledge with enthusiasm.
This experience revealed the beauty of teaching and the immense joy in crafting learning materials. It emphasized the importance of making the learning process as engaging and interactive as possible, something I was determined to carry forward in my future endeavours.
Through this journey, I have gained profound insights into the art of teaching and the dynamics of collaborative learning. One of the critical realizations has been that online learning goes beyond what traditional classroom settings offer. Physical boundaries do not limit it, and it provide a more comprehensive, versatile platform for both educators and learners.
Collaboration has emerged as a central theme in the course. Engaging with fellow learners, sharing experiences, and receiving feedback have enriched my understanding and made the learning process exceptionally enjoyable. This newfound perspective has convinced me of the importance of creating a learning environment that is not only easily navigable but also engaging and interactive.
I have also come to appreciate the power of technology in facilitating learning. My experience with platforms like Zoom for synchronous collaboration was eye-opening. Learning features like screen sharing and breakout rooms was a live test of my ability to design and deliver online courses effectively. It was a glimpse into what the future could hold in my teaching journey.
As I conclude my reflections on PIDP 3320, I am profoundly grateful for the individuals who shared this journey with me. The connections we have formed and the collective experiences we have gathered have transformed this course into a genuinely unforgettable adventure. I eagerly look forward to continuing our learning endeavours in future courses, knowing that the power of collaboration and shared knowledge is immeasurable.
Looking ahead, my dream of becoming an instructor in a large lecture hall remains as strong as ever, if not stronger. The challenges and trials I have encountered in this course have fortified my determination and honed my skills. I now feel better equipped to design and deliver engaging and effective online courses, bringing me one step closer to realizing my dream.
In conclusion, life's journey is an ongoing process of learning and growth. My transition from a career in human resources to a new life in Canada and my participation in the PIDP 3320 course have been instrumental in shaping this journey. This course has been a pivotal part of my ongoing story, equipping me with the knowledge and experience necessary to design and facilitate engaging online courses.
It has reaffirmed the idea that learning is a dynamic, ever-evolving process that thrives on adaptability and resilience. It is not constrained by age, background, or circumstances but is a journey that takes different forms and directions as we progress through life. My journey, from a career in human resources to the challenges of entrepreneurship and teaching, has been marked by determination and courage.
As I look forward to the future, I am filled with excitement, knowing that there is always more to learn and more to share on this lifelong journey of transformation and education. It reinforces the belief that, at any stage of life, pursuing knowledge and personal growth remains a powerful and fulfilling endeavour, and I am determined to embrace it fully.
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