Contribution to Your Learning and Learning Environment 5318/5389

After taking some much-needed time off for the holidays, I was ready to dive into my next ADL adventure. I was ready to complete two courses, EDLD 5389, Developing Effective Professional Learning, and EDLD 5318, Instructional Design in Online Learning. As I began reviewing the syllabi for both classes, I quickly realized that I would be tasked with developing a course for each. Initially, I felt anxious, but I reminded myself that the ADL program promotes collaboration and authenticity, so I knew I could bring my ideas to life.

What worked...

Throughout EDLD 5318, I had the opportunity to learn more about video-making. Although building an online course was the main focus, I am grateful for the video-making experience and will continue to build on what I have learned thus far. Through this process, I gained valuable experience with Final Cut Pro, a video editing software, and learned how to edit footage, add special effects, incorporate audio tracks, and more. I also learned how to use tools to hide sensitive information, which will be a valuable skill for any future online courses I develop.

While I found EDLD 5318 to be challenging yet rewarding, EDLD 5389 was equally as beneficial. This course focused on revamping professional development. I believe that it should be a requirement for all administrators pursuing a Master's degree to take this course. In my past experiences with professional development, I've often felt that the sessions could have been more engaging and productive. However, this course taught me valuable strategies for creating fun and effective professional learning experiences.

What could be better...

One aspect I wish I had done differently was aligning the two courses I was developing. As I observed some of my peers, who chose to align their courses, it seemed more manageable for them. Nevertheless, I'm pleased with my work in both classes.

Throughout the courses, I contributed to my learning environment in various ways. I completed course discussion posts and provided replies to my classmates. I also participated in our ADL GroupMe chat. I shared my ePortfolio site on a Google Doc created by Dawn Short, which aimed to provide examples of ePortfolios for our ADL GroupMe chat. Additionally, I received and gave feedback to James Rawls and Rebecca Rodgers, which helped to enhance my understanding and refine my projects.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed both classes this semester. I appreciated the autonomy and choice the ADL program allowed me to have, which enabled me to control my learning experience. As a final self-assessment, I would give myself a 90% in both courses.