Personal learning space....

At the prospect of upgrading my teaching qualification, I suspected early on I would need to negotiate my methods and strategies. Traditional note taking using pen and paper are still part of my being as I love the tactile nature of the 'tools of the trade', the sense of creation, the colours and forms it can take.....

The learning process has me continually reflecting on the concepts of self-efficacy and self-direction, and self-reflection. Thirty years ago, while studying for my Diploma, we engaged in 'reflection' but called it 'evaluation' way back then. During our course of study we evaluated various theories of education and methodologies of teaching in a variety of subject areas, as well as the effectiveness of our lessons, teaching practices and children's learning while were on placement.

As time evolves, so do our approaches and the terms and acronyms we use for them. At all levels of formal education we continue to evaluate, yet now at its core, we engage in 'reflection'.

Reflection on how I engage in my learning has been confronting at times. My weaknesses are highlighted but it offers me room to improve and grow from here. Part of this process includes adapting to new technologies.... my personal challenge! I have not only the urgent need, but the desire and purpose as motivation to take the leap in to this digital world that surrounds. I look forward to being able to present my thoughts and ideas more creatively, and via digitally constructed images, rather than just my comfortable pen and paper methods!