So on Friday we had our first Skype session introducing us to the course which was really exciting. It was lovely to get some more information and find out what we will be focusing on in Module 1.
We spent time at first hearing from everyone involved in the enrolment. It was so nice to see that there were people from all over the world, coming from different professional backgrounds and taking the course for so many different reasons. It was really comforting to realise that we are all in this together and I think having such a diverse group will really make the support system even stronger.
It was also reassuring to see that everyone else had questions about the course too and how things would run...at least I know I'm not the only one!
I am a little worried about studying long distance. I haven't done academic work since I graduated about 5 years ago and so with not being able to sit in a classroom I keep thinking I am going to get behind. But it seems these blogs are a great network and a really useful way to stay in contact with everyone and keep up to date.
We went onto discuss the 3 main points of communication…
- The Community Blog - This is where we can put out comments and share our thoughts with other students.
- Our Advisor - This is either Helen or Adesola. (I was assigned Helen)
- Skype Sessions - To attend to learn as a group
It seems that the Unihub is a huge resource for us. This is where we can find our handbooks and also links to other students blogs. The handbook is where we go to answer any questions we may have about the course. The blogs are where we should go to discuss ideas & theories. I need to accept my place on the course (I'm waiting on student funding) to be access the Unihub and have a look around so I'm eagerly waiting for that.
Our first module has a huge focus on reflection…reflecting on what we learn about ourselves & also our practice. The module is 12 weeks long and our first assignment will be submitted in January. We have to pass module 1 to continue on the course.
I now have a much better understanding of the course content. I believe its about developing & articulating our own professional practices and emerging this on an academic level… applying what we learn to our own profession.
I can already see that completing this course whilst away on a cruise ship may be a challenge…with the time difference & finding a quiet spot onboard to work. Friday’s Skype call was at 8am for me, with me being on Alaskan time. It was also a sea day which means that the internet connection is always slightly temperamental (to say the least). I had to sit in the crew mess room (a canteen area for the crew) as this was the quietest place I could find that still had a strong internet connection. It was busy with crew running in & out but I made it work!
I can’t wait to learn more about everybody else and of course get stuck into Module 1!
