I entered the ONL211 course with an open mind and felt a bit curious about how the learning would unfold. In my PBL group there was in interesting mix of people and I had the opportunity to learn about various teaching challenges as we discussed the different topics each week using the FISh model. The sessions on collaborating using new online tools and creating our presentation to share with the rest of the ONL community was fun as we had to communicate efficiently in a small amount of time using our creativity skills.

The group discussions also allowed us to think further and provide our own input and experiences on facilitation techniques and methods, and consequently learn from the more experienced facilitators in the group. Thus, working and interacting with others in the team promoted effective learning. Our facilitators were highly knowledgeable and able to add valuable depth to the course content, allowing us the space to expand on some topics and share our own thoughts and experiences. I think it is important to think critically when it comes to problem-based learning and this helped me to improve my active listening and questioning skills as well as contribute to my group in a deeper way.

Since my preferred learning style is visual, I enjoy learning that is fun and colourful. Hence using interactive technology in the classroom always promotes effective learning. However, there are always challenges due to the lack of resources and teacher support available at many institutions. Higher education institutions must think through alternative approaches in managing digital inequalities. With technology transforming the way we live, it is important to utilize it since it will forever be part of our lives. Hence, the collaborating tools and platforms that we used in our group sessions were certainly useful, for example Google Slides, MentiMeter, Conceptboard, Mural and a 3D virtual environment. I enjoyed learning about these interactive tools as it definitely supports creative project-based work that goes beyond audio communication.

I learned that one huge challenge for students and teachers, facing their COVID-19 response was the ability to offer tests and exams online. My current role involves dealing with assessments and therefore I understand why the virtual monitoring and coordination it entails is hugely important in moving fully online in the first few months of the pandemic.

This unpredicted period in history has taught us that online education is a thoughtful practice of designing learning experiences for success. In order for students to have successful semesters, we need to realistically approach our world’s new challenges. We must take steps now to ensure students can engage in blended learning, setting them up for success now, so they can flourish in the workplace later on.

Overall, having the opportunity to attend the ONL211 course, writing the blogs and attending webinars was certainly a rich learning experience for me and it has encouraged me to continue learning and developing my knowledge and skills in the learning environment.

Thank you to the ONL211 team!