This summer has truly been the longest, shortest summer ever. Ya see, it's been the longest because when I think back on the first day of the MAC program sitting in orientation, it seems like years ago. It has been one of the most intensely academic summers of my life, which of course is because I've never actually been in a summer school program. That said, it's the shortest summer because it flew. Each week seems like a blink of the eye in retrospect. I'd wake up Monday morning, and go to sleep Friday night. Or at least it would seem that way -- constantly going. And now that classes are over, I have three weeks to myself to enjoy what sunshine is left of this hot summer. Three short, baby, eensy-weensy weeks.
Teaching with technology is not a topic I'd given much thought prior to beginning this program. I sort of figured it would be a topic built into other courses -- but I'm glad it's not. I have come to realize that educators have to be on top of technology. It is not an easy task, but it is part of our responsibility as 21st century instructors. We have power in the future to make resources accessible to students and give them additional support and knowledge via the internet. Especially as I think about the larger picture of what I want to teach; I have been made aware of so many potential ideas for incorporating technology into my history classroom.
In terms of Friday's final class session, I would like to extend gratitude to Jeff and Kristin for inviting former MACers to come and share their experiences. I think this sort of discussion is absolutely fascinating and valuable. It is hard to imagine that I will be in their position in a few short years. I liked hearing about the degree to which they use technology in their classes. I was happy however that we were able to end the class together as a group. I think that sitting in the school of social work discussing the semester together was an opportunity to connect and be community-like in nature. I appreciate the ability to give feedback in an open forum like that, and I think that a lot of my peers had really insightful input during discussion. I don't agree with everything that is said all the time, but I still enjoy listening to other opinions as it tends to expand knowledge, empathy, and understanding. (SMART boards, anyone? ...joking)
And so here it is, my last blog post for a little while. I know it won't be my last, but I feel as though some sort of cordial adios is in order. I have enjoyed blogging, and I think I could feel even more enthusiastic about it if it were a blog specifically related to my future history classes. I think the experience has shown me how efficient and easy to use this sort of tool is, and in general creates a space for informal dialogue where I can be more creative and expressive. I like talkin' like a weirdo when I want, y'naw meaaannnnn?
Hope this one tides all you listeners (assuming anyone actually does listen) over for a bit:
Savor these few weeks, MACers. I'll see you all much too soon, and I mean that in the kindest way <3
