I recently started a new journey in education, pursuing my Masters in Curriculum and Instruction at Northwest Missouri State University. My first course, Leading in the Digital Age has been challenging me to critically assess online resources for instruction and add new tools and apps to my classroom’s digital repertoire. What I have noticed, is that the class is challenging me to explore new apps and websites, and to venture out and take risks with my teaching.
I’ve chosen to call my blog “The Learning Curve,” because the curve is a powerful symbol of my journey in education. I visualize the curve in terms of my growth, as I gradually add to my tools and proficiency as an eduator. The curve is also a comforting reminder that when the curve is steep, I am actually learning a lot in a short amount of time. This has been especially important to remember in my digital technology class. Learning how to use new websites and apps in the classroom often replicates a steep learning curve, as we are acquiring and using new skills quickly as opposed to learning an instrument which has a slower curve over time. There have been times in my career as an educator where I have felt that my journey is on a plateau. A plateau can be a good pause, a comfortable place to rest for a short time, but it can also be a place of stagnation. I am happiest when I’m growing as a person and as a teacher. Even during my busiest weeks, think parent-teacher conferences, I have discovered more energy and vitality in my teaching while taking college courses. My initial fear that studying and teaching at the same time would be overwhelming have been quelled. It’s the opposite! My classes are bringing new energy and life to my outlook and teaching.
I’d like this blog to document my journey as I progress through my Masters degree. Not only in terms of what I am studying and how I am applying it to my classroom, but also in terms of my personal growth as an educator. Some of the posts may include apps and tools that I am learning to use in the classroom, while others may reflect more on the social, or even psychological aspects of teaching. While this is a very personal journey for me as an educator, my hope is that other teachers will be able to draw inspiration from my story and what I have to share.
I think my journey has been full of new beginnings lately. And I’ve chosen the image of mountains to place on my home page. They call my journey to mind, and also a song. In Tracy Chapman’s “At this Point in My Life,” she sings, “I’ve conquered hills, but I still have mountains to climb.” I’m remembering that mountain climbing is a metaphor for my life as a teacher. When the curve is the steepest, you are learning the most. The climb may be tiring at times, but right now, I am finding it exhilarating.
The Learning Curve 