When I registered for the ONL course, it was with some apprehension. I was stepping out of my comfort zone into a “new” learning space with a group of “new” people. On top it, from the course outline, I knew that I had to face another challenge: learning to use new communication tools!

As anticipated, the first week was tough and daunting. As I had shared in my earlier blog, learning to navigate through the course materials, learning new tools, dealing with internet connections dropping (still happens on and off) and so forth. I was now entering a “new” learning space. But I am glad that I preserved. Otherwise I would have missed a wonderful opportunity, the opportunity to share, to learn and forge friendship with my wonderful PBL group members.

Lesson 1: Step out of your comfort zone and you see new opportunities

Over the past weeks in the course, I have been introduced to several communication tools, to share and collaborate ideas. The digital world offers several tools through which one can develop knowledge and relationship. Now, I am quite proficient with the use of Zoom.

My basic skills earlier involve the use of animated PowerPoints and occasionally Padlet and Kahoot in classrooms. Given the exposure in the ONL course, I am now more confident to explore and introduce new communication tools and activities in my teaching sessions, both face-to-face and online. I see opportunities for me to use Coogle and Canva in my classes to foster collaborative learning in a more fun way.  

Blogging was new to me.  As I shared my ideas and thoughts on my blog (admittedly, I had been quite diligent in posting them on the ONL space), it invited comments for like-minded individuals as well from those who challenged me. This then made me realize the potential of blogging in communication, the ability to foster interaction between members of a larger community. I am now considering starting a classroom blog for my students and colleagues. I am now inspired to introduce new communication tools, to create a more engaging and interactive work environment  

Lesson 2: Be bold, be brave. Even if is fails, it is worth the try.

The ONL course has provided “new” insight on the possibilities of online learning and collaboration. I have gained tremendously over the past few weeks, from the course as well as members of the ONL community. I leave this course, a “NEW” person.