Reflecting back on the path
of this course I still have to say that I did enjoy the structure and format of
this class. Its understanding and lenient design has allowed me to successfully
finish my first semester of grad school while keeping up with all of my other
responsibilities in life.
I
would have to say that my strength in my understanding as in the middle of the
semester remains in discussions. Discussions within this course allowed for me
to have self-initiated learning where I first developed an answer on my own and
then once everyone posted I had the opportunity to learn from classmate’s point
of views as well. I would say getting to hear everyone’s responses is what
expanded my learning the most. Harder concepts became clearer having the
opportunity to hear the different perspectives. For example, Networked Publics by Kazys Varnelis was
a challenging piece for me at first. It was the thematic group discussion that
really helped me fully grasp the broken down concepts. Therefore I thoroughly
read and participated in every discussion to get the most out of my learning
experience.
As
for improvements I am still in the process of improving my methods when it
comes to online learning. I am discovering what the best times for me to read
online material are so that I actually absorb the content. This was my first full
virtual semester. I have taken online classes before but never all at the same
time. I have learned its better for me to read during the day and not at not
night because I am not as alert. I have developed a tendency to print out key
reading material for note taking purposes because it works better for me than
highlight within the text on the computer. A new opportunity for improvement
that has been discovered since the mid of the course has been my skills when it
comes to APA format. APA was completely new to me. In the past I have always
used MLA. The OWL Purdue website was a close friend this semester to help me
tackle the in-text citations and reference page for every formal piece assigned
and will continue to be with future courses.
I
have had much insight throughout the course of this semester. I have learned
that the best tool I have entering into this new field is right at my
fingertips. To reach out to my classmates and peers if searching for advice.
Everyone has a different experience and opinion so you’re bound to find an
answer that is going to lead you in the right direction. As stated in my
midterm reflection my insight remains in the fact I can utilize the knowledge
provided in this course in my actual career and life. I found relevance in the
acquired information and I look forward to the opportunity to apply it.
I
truly enjoyed the knowledge that New Medias and New Literacies had to offer. I
believe that that readings, discussions and assignments have all helped my
growth within my potential career.
