Thing 1: Reflections on Lifelong Learning

Funny. The original post title was "lielong" learning! Leaving out one letter can change everything. Good thing I caught the typo! However, it really made me think. I grew up believing lies about learning. I didn't believe in lifelong learning. I believed that you learned something and were done. Move on, right? You get a diploma and you're done, right? Get your degree and your done, right? I encountered a paradigm shift of thinking in the process of getting my master's degree. I realized I had a natural desire to learn. Before I began the program, I attended staff developments out of a need to become better in my professional career. There was a need. After I completed my degree, I needed time off from classes. What I realized was that I missed learning! I missed "being taught" something new and experiencing the joy of discovery!

Watching the presentation online, I noticed my mind wandering immediately. I was curious as to how the presentation was made. I found myself trying to figure out the software! The steps in the intro were very basic in reference to how we learn and the old school box we find ourselves in. I like the "too old" excuse. Sometimes I use it so I don't have to play certain video games with the kids! Sure that is probably wrong, but I have to at least be a little bit interested in something to learn about it!

It's true, though. It's never too soon or late to learn. It can be done in a structured or non-structured environment. If you are open minded, you are likely to learn something anytime and anywhere.

In response to the reflection questions, I found the most challenging habit to me would be to view problems as challenges. In regards to my job, it seems I don't mind this so much. My job lends itself to this habit! The skill I have to embrace these challenges don't carry over in my everyday life most of the time. I recently had a plumbing problem under my sink. This wasn't a challenge to me. It was a PROBLEM. I can't fix it. I also don't have the money for a plumber. After it's all fixed, I find it almost impossible to replace the flooring and sub flooring! One thing did come to mind. I wondered if there was a chance someone could teach me! My initial response negatively impacted my ability to see this challenge in the beginning!

Naturally for my personality, using technology to my advantage seems to be the easiest habit for me. I tend to lean in that direction for most things. When I think of gifts, re-organizing, learning, connecting, and communicating, I go to the computer!

The most important habit I desire to attain throughout this course is accepting the responsibility for my own learning. I set out to take this course because it's my job to know this information. As a technology facilitator, I desire to open up as many doors as possible for the educators on my campuses! I want to be able to practice habit 7-to teach and mentor others! Therefore, as an online class, I commit to taking the responsibility seriously and I must say, it is extremely exciting!

I enjoy learning about good habits. So many of us beat ourselves down about our bad habits. It's refreshing to focus on some positive habits for once! I need the break!